I’ve been admitted to Boston University CAS for neuroscience and I’ve also been accepted to UF CAS. I’ve done a lot of research on both schools but can’t seem to come to a decision. I’m not exactly sure what I’m going to study in college or what career I’m pursuing. I’m interested in natural sciences and especially neuroscience. I’ve always though that I would pursue medical school after college, but I am not 100% sure at this point and I know that I might change my mind while in college. I’ve made a list of cons and pros about both colleges and I would appreciate any of your feedback or experiences with both colleges.
Boston University
Pros:
-The city of Boston has a lot to do and the university has a vibrant atmosphere
-Has better reputation nationally and globally
-The city offers great internship opportunities
-Top notch undergraduate research
-It offers a neuroscience major (is anyone currently studying it at BU?)
-Smaler classes
Cons:
-It would cost my parents 20K a year but they are willing to pay
-Grade Deflation (Is it only for certain classes?)
-Harsh winters
UF
Pros:
-I can go there basically for free
-Honors Program (I didn’t get in this year, but can try next year)
-It is less challenging than BU
Cons:
-No neuroscience major
-Only has regional reputation
-Not the city experience, but it’s warm here
-I’m not a huge football fan
Well, these are two very different schools. Very few folks have detail knowledge on both schools.
One is a large Private in the NE, the other is a large state flagship research university in the SE. Privates tend to have smaller classes, and be more expensive. You’ll have to figure out if $20K a year makes sense for your family, but a lot of folks would recommend not spending that amount on your undergraduate program, if you plan on attending (expensive) medical school.
On your pro’s and con’s.
BU and UF have similar reputations, but BU is much more well established in the NE If you plan on working and living in the NE, you’ll find it has a large alumni network in that part of the country.
UF is a very larger research university (about 2X the R&D funding in life sciences vs BU). You’ll find plenty of research opportunities at both schools .
Grade Deflation at BU/UF is less challenging? I think both of those cons/pros are overstated. You’ll find both schools are competitive (lots of “pre-med” students, especially at UF).
I wouldn’t list UF’s honor’s program as a pro, since I think you’ll find yourself much more engaged in other activities at UF (such as research, clubs, etc.) and are likely to not apply again to the program.
In the medical research field, UF has an excellent reputation, it’s hardly regional. Graduating from UF isn’t going to hurt your chances when it’s time to apply to a grad school (or med school).
Thank you very much for your feedback. I was also wondering about opportunities for double majoring at UF. Can I double major for example in Biochemistry and Neurobiological Sciences?