<p>Let's add Cornell vs. Wash U to the list. If you're reading this one, you've probably read the other comparision threads...and I have all of the same questions, so no point in retyping them. Any input will help. I am going to visit both of them this month, but I would also like to get some opinions from everyone on here; you all seem to be more knowledgeable than anyone else I know.</p>
<p>No posts...the one on the Cornell board is pretty busy...at the moment, Wash U is losing. Anybody have any input?</p>
<p>Hey. I am a freshman at WashU mechanical engineering major, and I was reading the Cornell board so I hope this input will help. One, I am pretty sure WashU does have an Engineering Physics Major. We learned about it during our engineering seminar this year, so unless they just got rid of it, it does exist. I don't know the extent of the program, but WashU did just add a "Honors Physics" class this year for Physics majors. </p>
<p>As for comparision between the schools, I don't know too much about Cornell, other than I have a friend there that enjoys it. From what I've heard, I don't think it would be the type of school I would enjoy, but everyone is looking for different things. </p>
<p>Pre-med curriculum is tough, but anyone who says engineering is easier at WashU than pre-med is wrong. They are both increidbly hard, and with the exception of O-Chem, I'll be taking all the pre-med classes. However, the work load is doable, and, while there is always competition for grades, I don't feel that it is cutthroat.</p>
<p>Socially, there is a lot to do on campus. Whatever you are interested in, there is a group for it. Since being here, I have seen plays and concerts on campus, joined a robotics club, started working on a project to build a nanosatellite, and more. We have great cultural activites like Diwali and Black Anthology, as well as the largest student run carnival Thurtene.</p>
<p>St. Louis can be a great place depending on your intersts. We have great sports teams and events (the final four is here this week). Musically, if you are into rock or jazz, we have great clubs. Mississippi Nights and the Pageant are great, and there are lot more clubs I haven't been too yet. The loop is a nice area near campus...it's a great place to get something to eat...especially Fitz's. </p>
<p>Weather wise, St. Louis has four seasons. We had a mild winter this year...almost no snow, but it still got pretty cold.</p>
<p>Congrats on both acceptances. Please don't blow WashU without visiting. Visiting is the best way to get a real feel for the campus. I loved Carnegie Mellon from the research I had done on it, but actually being there was a completely different story. I could just see myself at WashU, while I couldn't at Carnegie. </p>
<p>P.S. I went skiing for the first time ever since I came to WashU. There is a resort somewhere in Missouri that we got bussed to...they do a lot of ski trips during the winter...and usually you can go for cheap. It was $20 for lift tickets and rental!</p>
<p>I am definitely going to visit, over my spring break, the last week of April...and I really hope that leads me to a decision, because I am completely split right now. There are so many good things about each...</p>
<p>Descision time was definately the hardest for me too. Eventually, you'll just make a descision and that will be it. You will have a fantastic time wherever you decide to go.</p>
<p>Once you visit, your decision will be easy-Ithaca and St. Louis are like night and day. I'll bet WashU will be looking pretty darn good when you see 'em both.</p>
<p>Yes, I already know St. Louis is nicer than Ithaca. But if the rumors about how much work a major such as engineering physics requires are true, the city isn't going to matter very much or very often. So, yes, surrounding area is important, but that's certainly not the only factor I'm going to consider.</p>