Hi, Im Angel a high school senior from New Jersey, I applied to both FIU && FAU and got into both. I havent visited either campus but I plan on doing so at both. I was just wondering like pros and cons of each. which one is better academically, whats the night life like at both, diversity, class sizes, and housing because I plan to live on campus. ( i know its a lot of questions) These are my top 2 schools and Im not sure which I like better and I feel like a honest student perspective would really help me and ciing to a decision
Hello angelemilyb,
The schools are comparable academically and you will have the same chance at a job in your field from both schools. Both are very diverse. You may want to look at which school has a stronger reputation for your intended major, though even that is debatable… you’re talking FIU vs FAU, not MIT vs FAU.
Really what it comes down to is environment; Boca Raton is upscale, clean, safe, Jewish eateries, more retirees, less nightlife. It’s very different from Miami, which is heavy on Latin (and to a lesser extent, Haitian) culture. There’s more to do in Miami, especially from the nightlife perspective, but the traffic is a nightmare and safety (as it is a big city) is way more of a concern in Miami than Boca.
Neither have a “college town” atmosphere surrounding it, though FAU is actively working with the city on plans for that right now for 20th Street. If you came here, you’ll see some cool stuff there over the next 4 years, as well as the forthcoming University Village project.
Housing is expensive in both places; I can tell you most of the on-campus housing (particularly GPT, HPT, IVA) at FAU still feels new. If you can afford it, I’d recommend the new Innovation Village apartments, though they are a little bit of a walk from the center of campus.
As an aside, FAU has a lot of NY/NJ freshmen so you’ll be in good company there!
Good luck!
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