Quinnipiac vs Marist: Any Thoughts?

Hey, I'm facing a tough choice and could use your advice! I'm seriously considering either Quinnipiac University or Marist College. What are the main differences between these schools that I should be aware of in deciding which one to choose? Academics, campus life, opportunities, whatever you think might be important, I'd love to hear it.

Both Quinnipiac University and Marist College are good options and have their unique strengths.

In terms of academics, they both offer a wide variety of programs, but they are known for different areas of strength. Quinnipiac is most recognized for its programs in Health Sciences like Nursing and Physical Therapy. The school also has great strength in Business and Communications. On the other hand, Marist is known for strong programs in Business, particularly Fashion Merchandising, and has a well-respected Computer Science/Information Technology program.

Sizing and location differ between them. Quinnipiac, located in Hamden, CT, is larger with about 6,100 undergraduates. It's close to New Haven, giving students access to a more urban atmosphere. Marist, on the other hand, in Poughkeepsie, NY, is smaller with nearly 5,500 undergraduates, and located near the scenic Hudson River. Its picturesque setting and smaller size foster a close-knit community feel.

Extracurricular activities and student life slightly vary, too. Quinnipiac University is possibly best known for its Men's and Women's Ice Hockey teams that compete in NCAA Division I. If you're drawn to athletics and school spirit, this might be a strong point for you. Marist has a strong focus on study abroad programs, so if international travel and exposure are a priority, Marist might be more appealing.

As for opportunities, Quinnipiac’s proximity to New Haven offers access to a range of internships and career opportunities in the health industry, media, and business sectors. Marist maintains strong connections with the fashion and tech industries from its programs, providing internship opportunities for students in major corporations and fashion houses.

Make sure before deciding, you also consider specifics like the financial aid packages offered by each and how well the major programs fit into your career goals. It might be useful to reach out to current students or admission officers to get a sense of what life is really like at each school, too. Ultimately, the decision should be based on which school aligns best with your interests, and career goals, and what environment you see yourself thriving in.