Northwestern vs Princeton

Calling on all college buffs! I'm weighing my options between Northwestern and Princeton. These are my top two choices and I'm having a hard time deciding. Could anyone enlighten me with a comparison, especially in terms of academics, student life, internship opportunities, and post-graduate job prospects? Thank you in advance!

First off, it's great to have two amazing choices in Northwestern and Princeton! Both are prestigious universities with their own unique advantages.

In terms of academics, let's remember both Northwestern and Princeton are strong. Northwestern is known for its strong programs in journalism, theater, and music, due in part to its renowned Medill School of Journalism and Bienen School of Music. On the other hand, Princeton is particularly lauded for its humanities programs, as well as its natural sciences and engineering.

When it comes to student life, Northwestern, being located in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, offers both the charms of a college town and the allure of a big city. It's home to a Big Ten sports team, which might interest you if you enjoy college sports. By comparison, Princeton, located in a smaller town in New Jersey, has a more tight-knit community feel, with a focus on undergraduate residential life, as all undergraduates are required to live on campus.

Because of its location near Chicago, Northwestern students may have access to a broader range of internship opportunities, especially in hubs such as journalism, consulting, and finance. Princeton, though not near a large city, has a strong network and offers its students ample opportunities for internships, largely due to its robust alumni network and career services.

Regarding post-graduate job prospects, both schools have strong outcomes. Northwestern is known for its excellent career services and corporate connections in Chicago and beyond, which could benefit you if you're considering a career in business, journalism, or performing arts. Princeton, with an alumni network that is deeply involved with the school, also has excellent post-gradation opportunities. Its graduates frequently go on to prestigious positions in academia, business, and government.

If you're accepted to both, it's good to remember there's no wrong choice. Consider visiting each university (virtually or in-person) to get a feel for the type of environment you prefer. Look at specifics related to your intended major and interests, such as research opportunities and faculty in your field. Lastly, consider the vibe you want your college experience to have—do you prefer a suburban setting close to a big city, or a more contained, collegiate atmosphere? Good luck with your decision!