Forked Road: Johns-Hopkins or Cornell?

<p>So, I've narrowed it down to JohnnieHops and Cornell, but frankly, which one?</p>

<p>I love the sciences, and I know that I want to go Pre-Med. Most would tell me Johns Hopkins immediately, but I am a bit unsure. My interests are very broad, and span from history to creative writing. I want to major in the sciences, but I also want to take compelling courses in other subjects.</p>

<p>Can Johns Hopkins offer me courses in these areas competitive with those of Cornell? </p>

<p>They've given me an awesome package, and it's something I would hate to turn down. Does Cornell really overshadow Hopkins in other areas besides the sciences, or is that just rumor?</p>

<p>Well, Hopkins has one of the best--if not the best--creative writing programs in the country. Also, the history department is a top 10 department. And of course Hopkins has the sciences. Overall, they're pretty comparable and this should come to a choice of personal preference--not departmental concerns.</p>

<p>Threads about choosing a college after being admitted belong in the College Search & Selection forum, not in the College Admissions Forum, naturally. Good luck at finding advice for making a suitable decision.</p>

<p>Do not focus too much on academics and reputation. Those two schools are roughly equal when it comes to those all-important matters.</p>

<p>Instead, focus on what sets them apart. Cornell is quasi-rural, significantly larger and has a pretty significant, undergraduate-domianted social scene. Johns Hopkins is quasi-urban, smaller and not so strong social scene. So, if you like a strong, undergraduate/social feel and/or the great outdoors, go for Cornell. On the other hand, if you prefer a more urban, more serious, thinktank feel to college, Johns Hopkins may be a better option. You really should visit the two schools. They are so different, you are bound to walk away with a clear favorite.</p>

<p>Another thing to consider are finances. You mention that JHU gave you a good financial package. What are we talking about? Can you give us some details on the actual numbers? And can Cornell match that? If you are intending to go to medical school, you want to save as much money as possible as an undergrad because medical school is expensive.</p>

<p>Follow the money.</p>

<p>Thanks for all the comments, and they are helping a lot.</p>

<p>I have not heard from Cornell yet, but Hopkins offered me a total of $32,500, Aid plus loans and Work/Study. The work study and loans combined are under $6000, though I am unsure of the actual figures.</p>