Dartmouth vs UChicago?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>Decision time. And I'm freakin' out, ya'll.</p>

<p>So my final two choices are Dartmouth and UChicago, who both gave me the same financial package (pretty much a full ride to both).</p>

<p>I'm planning to study East Asian Languages and International Relations, with a few study abroads along the way. I love the gothic-Harry Potter-architecture of Chicago, and the inclusive campus-feeling of Dartmouth. Dartmouth, an Ivy League, has always been highly ranked with the other Ivy Leagues in regards to its education (especially undergraduate), and Chicago has been ranked #1 by the Princeton review for having the best college experience. </p>

<p>I suck at making decisions, because as you can tell, I always give reasons to both sides so that I balance them out. I understand the significance of my decision, which is why I'm freaking out over this.</p>

<p>Can anyone help me see clearer into this? Is there an obvious reason why I should pick one over the other? I'm not looking for reputation or labels, otherwise of course I would have picked Dartmouth by now. </p>

<p>I'm looking for an overall, good college experience; I want to LEARN for its application in the future, I want to make life-long relations with classmates, and I want an environment where I can feel as though my possibilities are endless.</p>

<p>I know this post is all over the place... Which is why I'm asking for help. Honest, blunt, Help.</p>

2

<p>I actually think UChicago is more prestigious…</p>

<p>But go to Dartmouth.</p>

3

<p>Any specific reasons? I like that you have a definite side though.</p>

4

<p>as a stanford alum, i too think that chicago is the more reputable institution. for east asian lang/civ and IR, chicago represents a handful of the best programs in the world. </p>

<p>that said, dartmouth is an excellent school as well. academics aside, also think about where you’ll be most happy. congrats and enjoy the time between now and when you start college. some of the best years of your life are forthcoming.</p>

5

<p>My impression is that they types of students are quite different. Dartmouth is reputed to be more preppy, fraternity oriented and sportsy. Chicago more intellectual/nerdy. Are you going to be able to go to accepted student days and stay overnight? If you are not a sports person, that atmosphere can be a little off-putting.</p>

6

<p>Are you planning to double major? (EALC/IR) I feel like that would be easier at Dartmouth. Much easier.</p>