<p>I’m in a tight spot. I wish to study chemistry, and have been accepted by both of the aforementioned schools. I liked Brown’s campus, but have never been to Columbia; I wasn’t expecting to get in. So, I will be visiting both.</p>
<p>What concerns me with my decision is this:
-Brown has an open curriculum. That’s awesome! Columbia does not. Umm…
-Columbia has gym. What?
-I feel like at Brown, I would have a better social life.
-Columbia has a better chemistry program…</p>
<p>Can anyone help sway me one way or the other? Via anecdotes, or anything?</p>
<p>hey. as far as the open curriculum goes, Columbia is known for its requirements. their somewhat opposites in that regard. keep in mind, even though there are not requirements at brown you will most likely still take a broad spectrum of classes, but you probably have more freedom that at Columbia for these classes. I would not worry about gym… you can probably do something like skiing or frisbee or swimming to fulfill that. i cannot comment on social life, but i know that brown is supposed to be one of the most social ivies. columbia is right in the city of new york, so the student body may not be as cohesive? with the difference in chemistry programs, i would say its probably not enough to factor into your opinion of the social differences between the schools.</p>
<p>but visit. thats the best way to get to know the schools possible.</p>
<p>I study Chemistry at Brown… I cannot begin to express how positive my experience has been. Please do come and take a physical science tour or check out STEM before ADOCH before making your choice!</p>
<p>P.S. – Fridays are my tour days…</p>
<p>You sound like you like Brown more but are afraid to say no to Columbia.</p>