Berkeley vs. Emory

<p>My D has some good choices.... She got into Cal and Emory and is looking to major in International Relations. Can anyone advise on which has a better program, and pros and cons? We're OOS any way, so both will cost the same...</p>

<p>Congrats on your Ds acceptances.</p>

<p>Let me be first to say that I love Cal and I've never been to Emory, so my observations will be biased.</p>

<p>Cal's political science/international relations major is very respected.
I'm sure Emory's is just as prominent.</p>

<p>Some of the differences I can say will be:</p>

<p>Cal Pros:
More renowned international reputation and prestige
San Francisco Bay Area
Can get around via public transportation very easily (airport, SF, campus)
Lively city environment - very student oriented - lots of cafes, bookstores, restaurants - (the southern part of the City of Berkeley can be gritty)
Large, diverse student body
Pac-10 sports
More school spirit</p>

<p>Cal Cons:
Larger class sizes - but humanities/social science courses are a lot smaller than the lower division math and science classes
Weaker advising/little attention
Daughter will need to seek opportunities out for herself (but the opportunities will be there)</p>

<p>Emory Pros:
Smaller classes
More personal attention
May be easier to get study abroad opportunities, etc.
Atlanta</p>

<p>Emory Cons:
Limited sports
Lack of school spirit
Not as well known international reputation</p>

<p>I would visit both if you can and then decide. </p>

<p>If your D is independent and she likes sort of a cool counterculture vibe, Berkeley may fit her best.
If your D is more reserved, Emory may be the school for her.</p>