<p>So, I have narrowed my search down between Massachusetts Maritime Academy and University of Massachusetts at Amherst. I am very confident in the admissions to both of these schools. I plan on majoring in Environmental Science.</p>
<p>So, here is my dilemma:</p>
<p>Mass Maritime:
Pros: AMAZING success rate. Virtually all of the graduates are offered a great paying job before they even reach their senior year.
The location is my favorite place in the world. It's right on the waters of Cape Cod.
They offer many programs for certification in things like SCUBA, boating, lifeguard, etc.
The students seem to be fairly nice.
The system will teach me leadership and skills that will actually be needed in the workforce.</p>
<p>Cons: Regimental system. It's not a huge problem, but I am a very politically minded person and don't agree with the militant minded officers that patrol this place.
Lacks social clubs and organizations based on academics.
Although nice, students seem to be close minded clones of each other. I'm afraid I won't be able to develop great relationships with people.</p>
<p>UMASS:
Pros: Great atmosphere. It's your typical big university experience.
Great sports to watch right on campus (very minor)
Tons of clubs and activities <strong>cough scifi club cough</strong>
A huge variety of people. I know that I will be able to find some great friends if I just put myself out there.
The environmental program is very good academically. They have a whole college for it!</p>
<p>Cons:
I'm afraid that I won't have too much of a career leaving this place. I mean, it's a huge school with thousands of people graduating in my class. Just does not have the reputation that Mass Maritime has.
It's right in the middle of Massachusetts. This will mean I will be four hours away from my family and friends with no car.</p>
<p>So, what do you guys think?</p>