<p>I'm currently caught between Harvard and Princeton, leaning toward Harvard for a few reasons - but holding out a chance for Princeton because of its idyllic beauty and the lure of the Woodrow Wilson School.</p>
<p>While not specifically committed to the policy end of international studies, I recognize that Princeton's undergrad IR program doesn't have an institutional match at Harvard. However, Harvard's programs in Government and Near Eastern Studies are unbeatable. If I have a broad interest in IR/IS, what is the better option? And should it outweigh other general considerations?</p>
<p>The Woodrow Wilson school is a fantastic option for anyone who wants to pursue politics, and I personally prefer the undergraduate focus of Princeton, the residential college system, and the senior thesis, but some people love the resources of a larger university. Consider too the locations (though Princeton is only about 45 minutes away from NYC).</p>
<p>Go with the school that is the best match personally and academically. Don’t tie yourself to one particular major because you may change your mind. Both are great in both IR and NE Studies. I wouldn’t necessarily give the edge to Harvard for NE Studies. Princeton more than holds its own in that area.</p>
<p>I’d agree with the first part of zapfino’s advice - go with the school that is the best match personally.</p>
<p>I’ve always found Harvard a much more “every man for himself” kind of place. A lot more in the way of people aggressively pursuing their goals as individuals. Lots of socializing, but much less intimately than at Princeton. Think alums look back on their Princeton experience with much more of an emotional connection to the school. </p>
<p>But Cambridge MA is not Princeton NJ - college town/small city joined at the hip vs. suburb with train/car access to NYC/Phil. </p>
<p>I’d go with Princeton, personally, and as an NYC resident (I’m at Columbia) I’ll say I’ve taken the train to both Philadelphia and central NJ where my fiance is stationed. The train ride to NYC is a short one - about 1 hour 15 minutes, and very easy, so it’d be easy to get into the city for some fun on the weekends. Philly’s train ride is about an hour, I think.</p>
<p>Agree with Grisam. Can’t go wrong either way. One thing you can do is to visit the campus again. Best way to find out is to visit again and imagine yourself been there for the next 4 year and see which one feels better. My D had always wanted to go to Princeton, and when she went to revisit after admission, she feels happier at Harvard. She choose Harvard and is very happy there now.</p>