Dartmouth or Penn - How to Choose?

I'm pretty stumped. I got acceptances from Dartmouth and Penn, which is amazing, but I'm really torn between the two. I've visited both campuses and they each have their unique vibes. Can anyone provide input on some significant differences between the two schools that might help me decide?

Indeed, both Dartmouth and Penn are fantastic institutions, and congratulations on your acceptances! Here, let me break down some broad differences between the two.

1. Urban vs Rural setting: Penn is in the heart of Philadelphia, a large cosmopolitan city with abundant professional opportunities, vibrant cultural life, and a robust network of public transport. Dartmouth's location in Hanover, New Hampshire, offers a more insular, campus-focused environment with abundant access to nature and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

2. Size and Student Body: Penn has around 10,000 undergraduates and offers a more diverse range of academic programs. Dartmouth, on the other hand, has around 4,400 undergraduates and focuses on providing a close-knit community with smaller class sizes and more personalized attention.

3. Academic Character: Dartmouth is traditionally known for its strong programs in the humanities and social sciences, along with an emphasis on undergraduate teaching. Penn, as a larger university, has strong offerings across a greater range of disciplines, particularly business (Wharton School) and STEM fields.

4. Campus Culture: Dartmouth is famous for its close-knit student community, which is largely due to its unique D-Plan system, where students are on campus every season of the year. Penn, however, has more of a pre-professional vibe, with many students looking toward career-oriented outcomes from their experience. Also, the Greek life is fairly robust at both schools.

5. Alumni Network: Both schools have strong alumni networks, but the nature of these networks might be different. Dartmouth grads are known for their strong school spirit and tend to remain tightly connected with each other. Penn's location in a large city and the strength of its pre-professional programs might give it an edge if you're interested in certain industries like finance or consulting.

Remember, both these schools are incredible, and you can't make a wrong decision here. Reflect on what aspects matter to you the most - campus setting, academic focus, class sizes, and types of extracurricular activities. Reach out to current students or alumni if possible, as their insights can also provide valuable perspective. Whatever choice you make, you're sure to have an amazing college experience. Good luck!