<p>I'm torn between Northwestern and Berkeley in the spring. I plan to major in biology but that may change. I would have gone to Berkeley had I gotten in for the fall term. The price difference isn't too big after scholarships (Northwestern is about 9000 more a year). I can't afford to visit the schools, but from what I've read, it seems like Cal is huge, predominantly Asian, with mild weather year round while NU has smaller class sizes, more of a Greek scene, and harsh winters. Is this assessment about right? Which school would you choose and why?</p>
<p>I had the same final decision between these two schools. I chose berkeley eventually, but this is primarily for engineering, which is much stronger than Northwestern is at economics (the major I applied for in Northwestern). Though there were many pros for Northwestern: 12,000 dollars cheaper, great music school (I play piano), seems like a safer campus, Chicago to me seems better than San Francisco. However, Berkeley has nicer/warmer weather, more research opportunities (especially fir engineering), take a lot more AP and IB credits so that I might be able to finish school within 3 years. </p>
<p>Just ask one question: what are the most important thing u want from ur college? For me, it was strength of major within school (I didnt really care anymore about school’s prestige or overall strength, just the department I was going to)</p>
<p>I know both schools will give me a great education so I’m mostly concerned about the atmosphere of the two schools. I want a big school with great sports teams (especially football), laid-back people, in a warm place. Berkeley’s definitely warmer, but I’ve heard that kids there are very competitive and tend to group themselves by race. Is this true? Do you know which school arguably has more school spirit?</p>
<p>I would think that Cal’s sports teams are superior to those at Northwestern. Obviously not all Berkeley students are into sports, but you won’t have a problem finding friends who like attending football and basketball games. The football team has been pretty average as of late, but the gameday atmosphere for students is awesome and the student section is on the 50-yard line instead of in the end zone like at other schools. Plus, Memorial Stadium just got remodeled and is reopening in 2012.</p>
<p>The classes for science majors, especially the intro courses, are pretty competitive. However, if you took AP level science courses in high school you should be able to handle the material as long as you keep up with the lectures and assigned work. </p>
<p>Have you considered doing the FPF program? You could be at Berkeley for the fall semester and still be eligible to dorm, rush for frats/sororities, go to football games, etc.</p>