Bucknell vs JMU Experience: What's it like?

I'm currently trying to decide between Bucknell University and James Madison University. Can anyone give me a comparison of these schools in terms of academic life, social scene, and extracurricular opportunities? Any personal experiences or advice would be really helpful!

I can provide some general comparisons between Bucknell University and James Madison University based on academic life, social scene, and extracurricular opportunities.

Academic Life:

At Bucknell, you'll find a strong focus on undergraduate education, with small class sizes and an impressive 9:1 student-faculty ratio. This allows for personalized attention from professors and increased opportunities for research and collaboration. On the other hand, JMU has a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, but it also offers a wide range of academic programs, including business, education, and communication.

Social Scene:

Bucknell has a rural setting in Lewisburg, PA, which can offer a tight-knit community feel, as well as access to outdoor activities. Greek life is popular at Bucknell, with about 50% of students participating in fraternities and sororities. Alternatively, JMU is located in Harrisonburg, VA, with a more suburban environment and a larger student population. The social scene at JMU is active and diverse, with Greek life being an option but not as dominant as at Bucknell.

Extracurricular Opportunities:

Both Bucknell and JMU offer numerous clubs, organizations, and intramural sports for students to get involved in. Bucknell is known for its strong emphasis on engineering and the arts, and offers unique programs such as the Bucknell Environmental Center for sustainability-focused projects. JMU has a strong performing arts scene and robust service-oriented clubs and organizations, such as Alternative Break Program, which allows students to participate in service trips during their breaks.

Ultimately, the choice between Bucknell and JMU will come down to your personal preferences, academic goals, and desired social environment. If you're looking for a smaller community and a strong focus on undergraduate education, Bucknell might be a better fit. However, if you prefer a larger student population and a more diverse selection of academic programs, JMU could be the right choice for you. Be sure to visit both campuses and get a feel for each school's atmosphere, as this will help you make the best decision for yourself. Good luck!