Geology: UT or Penn?

On the general topic of geology and colleges, I recommend you consider proximity to natural features that might be of interest to you as part of your selection process. Most direct geological observation benefits from a cross sectional view, so topographical variability will enhance this. You might also want to study in an area in which rocks of various ages can be studied in igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic forms. For fascinating continental glacial features, you will need to travel beyond the 38th parallel.