<p>UMass does have a bit of a party reputation - for those who are into that sort of thing. It is also known as a great school for learning - for those who are into that. It sounds lke you may fall into the latter group, so it’s all good.</p>
<p>BU is a much more expensive school, but is pretty well respected. Of course, it has its super-serious students as well as its slackers. If you can easily afford it, it may make a good choice for you.</p>