Hey folks, I've been accepted at both Harvard and Boston College. I know they're both in the same area, but they seem to have very different vibes. Is there anyone here who has attended either of these schools, or knows someone who has, and can offer a comparison? I'm trying to make the best-informed decision I can. Thanks in advance.
Absolutely, comparing colleges can be quite daunting, but you're on the right track by understanding that each university has its own unique character and offerings.
Harvard University, a member of the Ivy League, is quintessentially prestigious and is recognized globally for its rigorous academic programs. Usually, the smaller class sizes provide an opportunity to closely interact with professors, many of whom are recognized experts in their fields. Harvard's reputation carries significant weight and could potentially open doors in the future, especially for graduate school or employment opportunities in highly competitive industries. Moreover, Harvard's financial aid is quite generous. It's need-blind and meets 100% of every student's demonstrated need. If your family earns less than $85,000 per year, you'll pay nothing towards the cost of attendance.
On the other hand, Boston College is a renowned private Jesuit Catholic university known for its intimate campus environment and focus on liberal arts education. Boston College emphasizes the Jesuit philosophy of "men and women for others", encouraging students to contribute to society and value community service. You'll find more of an emphasis on holistic education catering to personal growth and character building. BC also offers a solid curriculum overall with several strong departments, and its nursing and education programs specifically tend to rank highly nationwide.
Despite their proximity, the campuses have different atmospheres. Harvard's setting is urban, and students have access to all the cultural, social, and professional opportunities that Cambridge and Boston have to offer. BC, on the other hand, offers a classical collegiate atmosphere, with a beautiful, almost idyllic campus that some might argue provides a more traditional college experience.
To summarize, your decision may hinge upon what you want from your college experience. If prestige and a strong alumni network are important to you, Harvard would be more applicable. If you're interested in being part of a community-oriented, socially conscious campus while being part of a renowned educational program, BC might allure you more. Identifying what you want in terms of environment, size, curriculum, and overall educational philosophy will assist you in making an informed decision.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.