Lehigh vs Virginia Tech: Help me decide

Hey guys, I'm currently trying to choose between Lehigh University and Virginia Tech. I'm planning to major in engineering, but I'm also interested in campus life and the surrounding area. Can anyone give me some comparisons or experiences that could help me make a decision?

First off, congratulations on your acceptances to both Lehigh and Virginia Tech—both are great schools with strong engineering programs! Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Academics:

1. Engineering Programs: Virginia Tech has a larger and more diverse engineering program, offering more majors and a wider range of research opportunities. Lehigh also has a strong engineering program, but it is smaller in size.

2. Class Size: Lehigh, being a smaller school, would generally have smaller class sizes, which can lead to more individualized attention and better relationships with professors.

Campus Life:

1. Campus Atmosphere: Lehigh has a picturesque campus and a close-knit community feel due to its smaller student body. Virginia Tech, on the other hand, offers a large university atmosphere with a greater variety of activities, clubs, and events to choose from.

2. Greek Life: Greek life is fairly prominent at both schools, but Lehigh has a higher percentage of students involved in fraternities and sororities compared to Virginia Tech. If Greek life is important to you, this might be a factor to consider.

Location:

1. Surroundings: Lehigh is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a smaller city that offers a historic, charming environment. Virginia Tech is located in Blacksburg, Virginia, which is surrounded by beautiful nature and offers a more outdoorsy, rural experience.

2. Proximity to Major Cities: Lehigh is closer to larger cities like Philadelphia and New York City, offering more opportunities for internships, job connections, and weekend trips.

Cost:

Remember to consider the differences in tuition, room and board, and other costs between the two schools, as well as any financial aid packages or scholarships you may have received.

Ultimately, the best decision will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. You might want to visit both campuses (if you haven't already) to get a feel for the environments and student life, and consider reaching out to current and former students from both schools to get their perspectives. Good luck with your decision!