Harvard vs. UPenn: A Comparison?

Hey y'all, I'm in this fortunate yet nerve-wracking position where I've been accepted into both Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania. Can anyone share comparisons or even experiences about both? I'm torn!

Firstly, congratulations on your acceptances! Both are fantastic institutions and you really can't go wrong with either.

Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) do similar things well, but they specialize in certain areas and offer different college experiences. Let's break down a few key elements:

Academics: Both are powerhouse universities with expansive course offerings and world-renowned faculty. However, Harvard is often noted for its strengths in areas such as social sciences, biological sciences, humanities, physics, and computer sciences among others. UPenn, on the other hand, hosts the renowned Wharton School of Business and has strong programs in nursing, bioengineering, and other areas. If you're interested in a specific academic area, it may help to look deeper into which school's programs align best with your interests.

Campus Life: Harvard is located in the lively university town of Cambridge, Massachusetts, which boasts a vast array of recreational and cultural opportunities, with all the advantages and resources of Boston conveniently close by. UPenn, located in Philadelphia, offers urban campus life with access to city attractions, cultural sites, and internship opportunities. Yet, it also has a more traditional campus feel.

Size and Atmosphere: Harvard has a slightly smaller undergraduate population than UPenn, which might lead to a closer-knit community feeling. But don't get me wrong; both are bustling campuses teeming with energy and diverse student bodies with students representing various backgrounds and perspectives.

Housing: Both universities have residential college systems (Harvard has Houses, while UPenn has College Houses) where you live, dine, and engage in various activities. At Harvard, students are randomly assigned to their Houses at the end of their first year and remain there for their remaining years. At UPenn, students can choose which College House they want to live in from their first year onwards.

Career Opportunities: Both universities have strong career services and alumni networks, averaging high job placement and graduate school admission rates. However, given UPenn's location, it might have an edge when it comes to internships in New York City or D.C.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is by considering the factors that matter the most to you - be it the vibe of the student body, the opportunities in your intended field of study, the location, etc. If it's possible, consider visiting both campuses if you haven't already done so; you might find that you simply vibe better with one than the other. Whatever decision you make, remember that you have earned your place at both of these elite institutions. Good luck!