Hi all! I got accepted into both Penn and Rutgers, and I'm really torn between the two! I want to study Political Science, but I'm also looking for a great social scene and campus environment. Any thoughts or experiences would be super helpful!
Congratulations on your acceptances to both Penn and Rutgers! It's fantastic that you have options, and I'm happy to help you think through your decision.
In terms of studying Political Science, Penn is known for having a strong program in that area. It is an Ivy League institution, so the prestige and quality of the education you would receive would be quite high. Additionally, Penn is located in Philadelphia, which offers countless opportunities for internships and networking, since you'll be in close proximity to influential people and organizations. Penn is also often cited as the most pre-professional Ivy, so you'd be in an environment with other students who are already highly motivated to start making moves in their careers.
As for Rutgers, it is a well-respected public institution with solid Political Science offerings. While it may not have the same level of prestige as Penn, that doesn't necessarily mean your education would be any less valuable. Studying at Rutgers may also come with the advantage of in-state tuition if you're a New Jersey resident, lowering the cost of attendance. And, while you're not in the heart of a major city like at Penn, you do have easy access to New York City.
Regarding the social scene, both universities offer vibrant campus environments. Penn has a strong sense of community, with numerous clubs and activities to participate in. The location in Philadelphia also provides access to nightlife, restaurants, and cultural events. Penn is known for having a "work hard, play hard" culture.
Rutgers has a larger student body, which may allow for a more diverse social atmosphere and a wider range of opportunities to make friends. It's known for having a great sports culture, with its teams competing within the powerhouse Big 10 conference, and the campus is divided into smaller sections, which means you'll be able to build a smaller community for yourself while also benefitting from the resources of a larger institution.
In the end, the choice depends on your priorities and personal preferences. Reflect on what you value most - whether it's the prestige, quality of education, r social environment - and consider visiting the campuses if possible to see which one feels like the best fit for you. Finally, you should also factor in tuition cost, and financial aid packages, as Penn is quite a bit more expensive than Rutgers, but is also known for offering generous financial aid, so don't get scared off by the sticker price alone.
Good luck with your decision!
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