Columbia vs. Harvard

Colleges and Universities A-Z Columbia University
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<p>So I was just accepted off the Columbia waitlist. I was accepted to and committed to Harvard earlier this year. Now I have the choice: Harvard or Columbia?</p>

<p>The issue is, I live in Cambridge, MA and have my whole life. Harvard is almost literally my backyard. I am desperate to get away from home, and I really really love New York City. That's a point for Columbia.</p>

<p>I don't mind the core curriculum because I love humanities stuff (although I am not happy about the foreign language requirement) and though financial aid is a BIG issue and Harvard has given me a lot, Columbia is not exactly a poor school. If they can come close to Harvard's offer, that'll be what I need. I dont know yet, but hopefully that will work out.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Harvard is <em>Harvard</em>, which I hate saying although it's true. The recognition and the benefits of the name brand are not immaterial. I also genuinely enjoyed the prefrosh weekend: I liked the students, all the extracurricular stuff, the spaces, and the academics. I love to write parody, and where better for that than the Lampoon? I also know the value of the alumni network, which is a big point for Harvard. If I didn't live in Cambridge, I would be thrilled to go.</p>

<p>I don't know as much about columbia as I do about Harvard, which is probably why it seems a little less rosy in comparison. But some outside advice would be great: if both schools seem to fit me, which would you recommend choosing?</p>

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<p>Harvard. Don’t think twice. And congratulations!</p>

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<p>If you fit into both, Harvard would be a better choice. Though if you genuinely cannot fathom another 4 years in Cambridge, go to Columbia! It is a fantastic school with all the resources Harvard has! You really cannot go wrong! :)</p>

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<p>Harvard no question. If you really want to get away from home (mostly your parents), you could easily apply for a gap year and go fooling around somewhere else.</p>

1 Like
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<p>Hi Larenthead, you will find a number of 2015 Columbians who chose Columbia over Harvard. Join the Columbia - Class of 2015 Group and chat with them about why they made that choice. You can also find out more about Columbia directly from your future classmates and current students. Congratulations!</p>

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<p>You can’t go wrong with either choice. Both are Urban Ivy League schools with many opportunties available to you. Going to school in New York City is an opportunity of a lifetime. Columbia’s student body is the most diverse in the Ivy League and I think this reflects the type of person who chooses to go to Columbia. Good luck with your decision.</p>