Howard vs VCU

I'm having a hard time deciding between Howard University and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Can you guys share some pros and cons of each, in terms of academics, diversity, and campus life?

Sure, I can help you break down the pros and cons of both Howard University and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in terms of academics, diversity, and campus life.

Howard University:

- Academics: Howard is a renowned historically black university (HBCU) that offers strong programs in communications, business, and health sciences. The university has a low student-to-faculty ratio (7:1), which can be beneficial for forming close relationships with professors.

- Diversity: Being an HBCU, Howard places a strong emphasis on diversity and fostering a supportive environment for its students. The majority of the student population is African American, although there are smaller percentages of other racial/ethnic groups.

- Campus Life: Howard has a vibrant campus life with opportunities to join fraternities/sororities, participate in community service, and engage in diverse cultural events. The campus is located in Washington, D.C., so students have access to numerous internships and job possibilities, as well as the social and cultural events of the city.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU):

- Academics: VCU is known for its programs in the arts, health sciences, and business. It has a larger student body than Howard, which could mean more extensive course offerings and research opportunities. However, the student-to-faculty ratio is higher at VCU (18:1), so you may get less personal attention from professors, especially early in your college career.

- Diversity: VCU has a diverse student population with a mix of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. While not an HBCU, VCU is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for its students.

- Campus Life: VCU has a rich campus life, with numerous student clubs, intramural sports, and Greek life. The campus is located in Richmond, Virginia, which also offers numerous internship and job options. VCU is known for having an urban vibe, and you can easily explore the city's art, culture, and food scenes.

In summary, your decision between Howard and VCU will likely come down to personal preferences and your academic focus. If you want a smaller, close-knit HBCU with strong support for African American students, Howard might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a larger, more diverse public university with strong arts and health sciences programs, VCU could be the right choice for you.

Ultimately, consider visiting both campuses and talking to current students to get a better sense of each school's atmosphere and offerings before making your decision. Good luck!