I have recently been accepted to Cornell and Brandeis and am trying to choose between the two as a potential biochemistry/ chemistry major. Obviously, Cornell has the upper hand academically, but I was accepted into a selective program at Brandeis that would basically hand me a research position starting 2nd semester freshman year. This program also comes with a 20k per year scholarship which would be very helpful to my family.
In making my decision, I am wondering how hard it would be to get similar research experience at Cornell? Is there significant grade deflation in either school in this major? Is the “name brand” at Cornell worth it considering I want to go either to med school or scientific research? Finally, what is the social life like at Cornell- I have heard from some that it is very focused on frats and sororities, which is not really what I’m looking for.
The questions above are the main factors I’m looking at when making this decision so if we could keep the thread focused on those questions that would be great
If money is an issue, I don’t think Cornell is worth 80k more than Brandeis, especially if you’re planning on going to grad school or med school. I have heard that there is a lot of grade deflation at Cornell in the sciences, though that statement could be more based on stereotype than fact.
Brandeis may not have the name (and is nit an Ivy) but you will not be limited in any way. The early research opportunity and the decreased cost at Brandeis is a plus. To be completely transparent, I am a Brandeis alum and had a great experience and set me up for success in medical school and beyond.
If money is an issue I’d jump on the Brandeis offer. Doing well at Brandeis and getting research experience there as well can get you anywhere you want to go in live.
