Vanderbilt vs USC: Help me choose

Hey all! I recently got into Vanderbilt University and University of Southern California (USC), and I'm having a tough time making a choice. Can you guys share some pros and cons of each school to help me decide? I'm still undecided on my major.

Congratulations on your acceptances to both Vanderbilt University and University of Southern California! Both are fantastic institutions, and you can't go wrong with either choice. Here are some pros and cons for each school to help you in your decision-making process:

Vanderbilt University:

Pros:

1. Renowned for its strong academics and highly ranked programs, especially in biology, engineering, political science, and nursing.

2. A beautiful campus located in Nashville, TN, a vibrant and growing city known for its music scene and friendly atmosphere.

3. Smaller student body and lower student-to-faculty ratio (7:1), which allows for closer relationships with professors and more individualized attention.

4. Ranked high in terms of happiness of students, signifying a generally supportive and positive campus culture.

Cons:

1. Although Nashville is an exciting city, some students may desire a more urban environment.

2. Greek life is a prominent aspect of the social scene, which may not appeal to all students.

3. Limited public transportation options may require students to utilize personal vehicles.

University of Southern California (USC):

Pros:

1. USC offers a wide range of highly ranked programs, including business, communications, film, engineering, and social work.

2. Located in Los Angeles, an exciting, diverse city that offers a plethora of opportunities for internships, networking, and entertainment.

3. A large and diverse student body, providing opportunities to meet and engage with students from all over the world.

4. Strong athletic program and school spirit, with numerous opportunities to participate in or attend sporting events.

Cons:

1. A large student body and higher student-to-faculty ratio (9:1) may result in less individualized attention from professors, especially in popular majors.

2. Cost of living in Los Angeles tends to be higher compared to Nashville, so expect a higher overall cost of attendance.

3. Despite having a beautiful campus, the area directly surrounding USC can be somewhat sketchy, although the school has taken steps to improve security.

Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and preferences when choosing between the two. Reflect on any potential majors or fields of interest, the type of campus and social environment you are looking for, and the resources and opportunities available in each city. If possible, try to visit both campuses and talk to current students to get a better sense of where you might feel most at home.