I was originally deciding between Cornell, UChicago, Vanderbilt and Georgetown, but narrowed it down to just the two. I’m thinking about being on the premed track, and am interested in neuroscience. I feel like chicago might have more of the academic vibe that I’m looking for, and I live in NYC so I know I would love Chicago and being in a city environment. However, it might be beneficial to try something new (ie Ithaca), and the academic diversity that a larger school could offer might be more beneficial. I love Human Ecology, and really want to be able to have fun and be happy in college. I’m worried about Chicago’s reputation and social scene, and like the school spirit that comes with Cornell. I know that Chicago is ranked higher by US news, but Cornell is still an Ivy (not that I care that much about reputation. Finally, it’s worth noting that Uchicago gave me a considerably large financial aid package as well as a merit scholarship to do STEM research, while Cornell gave me nothing.
I’ve been mulling over this for weeks and need to officially decide by May 1 so any opinion/perspectives would be extremely helpful!!! I know that above all where I fit is most important-- but that seems to change on a daily basis.