UMD vs Rutgers: Any insights?

Geez, I'm having a hard time deciding between UMD and Rutgers. I love both campuses and the programs offered. Has anyone had to make this decision before? Can you share what factors played into your decision? Much appreciated.

One way to differentiate between the two would be to reflect on the academic programs that interested you most. Both UMD and Rutgers have strong programs, but their key strengths lie in different areas. UMD shines more in the sciences, engineering and business, while Rutgers is known for pharmaceutical sciences, philosophy, and English, among others. Think about where your academic interests align and which school might provide the best opportunities.

Aside from the academic strengths, each university is located in a different kind of setting which can play a big factor as well. Rutgers is located in close proximity to Philadelphia and New York City, which can be a big draw for some students due to the myriad of job internships and cultural opportunities in these metropolitan areas. UMD, however, is just a short ride from Washington, D.C., which not only provides a rich political and cultural scene, but also offers a wide range of internships and job opportunities.

Consider also the sizes of the schools and how this impacts the student experience. UMD is a larger school (with about 30,000 undergraduates compared to Rutgers' 25,000), which may mean larger class sizes, but also more variety in course offerings, student organizations, and social opportunities.

Finally, cost and financial aid should be considered. Check out both schools' net price calculators to get an estimate of what your personal cost to attend would be. This may greatly affect your decision if one school is significantly more affordable than the other.

Remember, there's no right or wrong choice here. It's all about what feels like the best fit for you and your personal, academic, and career goals.