<p>OK, I posted a while back but got busy and did not get to hear what you folks had to say. I basically was wondering if the specific biophysics major, which I love, at Penn would be worth passing on a typical physics major at Princeton, considering I did feel the undergrad love and support at Princeton. I want to go to medical school, but the major is more than that. I have no trouble with this area of academics, but wondered if being among Princeton physics students may drive me a little crazy compared to Penn biophysics. I applied to eight schools and was accepted at all eight. However, it is down to Penn or Princeton. I eliminated M.I.T. to get down to these two. It is literally neck and neck. Funny I was so quick to not even want to apply to Harvard after a visit and words from some students, but now I can't seem to find the peace of mind to separate Penn and Princeton. I expect to do well at either and get into a good med school in the end. But while I may enjoy Princeton's administration, I may enjoy Penn's academic day-to-day as much. Financial aid is pretty much a wash. Driving distance from home is a wash. Love both campuses. So, in this situation, what would you do? You guys know a hell of a lot about this stuff even if I researched a ton myself. I'd at least like to hear it before I decide.</p>
<p>P.S. Not that it matters for my question, but if anyone wants additional info I'd be willing to offer it, in case someone else may gain for their own search and decision.</p>
<p>Since both of these colleges are elite, you need to base your decision on the college environment and everything else. Its not possible to differentiate between them academically.</p>
<p>Thanks to those that answered. I did think it was interesting. And yes, the Penn med school connection was a huge plus. I even visited the med school when there. It is weird because I still have this Princeton letter with the letterhead and it is on my bulletin board. But I chose the University of Pennsylvania. The way it fit such a pristine place in that city just felt energetic but safe. I think I can get opportunities at the med school even if just helping for free. And frankly I feel I can be a bit more relaxed with Penn biophysics majors than Princeton physics majors. The curriculum is not much different for the majors but the interest in the biological angle and my experience with certain radiology docs, when I was worried a few years ago that I would not have enough passion to fight through the premed game, really made me want to stick to that interest, even if I someday become some other type of doctor. Though so many people think I am a geek for liking radiology diagnosis so much, but I had a great experience and learned to love physics and calc in high school after being a bit intimidated at first compared to other AP classes, but being an athlete I kind of like being part geek . . . as long as I am not a “nerd.” Now I can play intramural and dominate without having my life revolve around the sport that will not be a career. So to Penn I shall go.</p>
<p>I don’t use forums a lot, but even with this decision done I still enjoy reading the analysis of those educated in this area. So maybe I’ll find a different topic to post on now that this is decided. Thanks for any interest and aiding others in their quandaries. And good luck!!!</p>
<p>P.S. ucbalumnus, thanks for being especially specific. I think though in the end I just wanted to do any type of integrated physics and would rather do it at Penn where I feel I may go under the radar a bit more with Princeton basically having perhaps the top physics department there is (or tied, depending on the source).</p>