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Cornell vs UPenn - Which one to choose?

I've been accepted into both Cornell and UPenn, and I'm having trouble deciding which one to attend. Can anyone provide some insight into the academic strengths, campus life, and student opportunities at both schools? I'm planning to major in computer science, if that helps.

a year ago

First off, congratulations on your acceptances! Both Cornell and UPenn are fantastic schools, and you can't go wrong with either. Here's a brief overview of the academic strengths, campus life, and student opportunities at both schools to help you make your decision.

In terms of academic strengths for computer science, both schools are highly regarded. Cornell has a slightly higher-ranked computer science program, and the College of Engineering is known for its research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration within the tech community. UPenn also boasts a strong computer science program, with the added benefit of being part of their School of Engineering and Applied Science which emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, allowing you to take courses and collaborate with students in various fields.

Campus life at both schools is quite different. Cornell is located in Ithaca, a small college town with striking natural beauty, including nearby gorges and parks. The campus itself is quite large and spread out, which can feel more rural and offers a close-knit community atmosphere. UPenn, on the other hand, is situated in an urban environment in Philadelphia. The campus is more compact and offers a myriad of activities both on and off campus. There's a lot of school spirit, and students often take advantage of the social and cultural opportunities in the city.

As for student opportunities, both schools have plenty to offer. At Cornell, you'll have access to research opportunities, internships, and various student organizations. Entrepreneurship is also encouraged, with resources like the eHub to help students launch their own startups. UPenn has a similarly supportive environment, with initiatives such as the PennApps hackathon and the Weiss Tech House to encourage innovation. Networking opportunities and internships are plentiful due to the school's connection with the Philadelphia tech scene and proximity to cities like NYC and Washington D.C.

Ultimately, your choice should come down to your personal preferences and goals. If you prefer a smaller town with a more tight-knit community and a higher-ranked computer science program, Cornell may be the better fit for you. If you're excited by an urban setting with interdisciplinary focus and strong connections to nearby cities for internships and networking, UPenn might be the right choice. Do consider visiting both campuses (if possible) and talking to current students to get a better sense of what each school has to offer. Good luck with your decision!

a year ago

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