Is it sad being right next to UPenn?

Is Drexel frequently compared to UPenn? Is Drexel considered an academically/ professionally respected university? Or is it just meh/ok?

I think that academics take a hit on reputation because the school is figuratively and almost literally physically in UPenn’s shadow. They are too different schools with two completely different focuses and I don’t think you can really compare one to the other. UPenn is very academic minded and very traditional. Drexel is very career minded and very Modern in format and style. Both are great schools in entirely different ways. I personally think if someone goes to either one, they should be really excited. Contrary to beliefs, it does mean something to be a Drexel Dragon. Drexel can be a place where you go through the motions and don’t get much out of it if one does not understand the opportunity given to them (like most schools). But I think if one were to attend Drexel and really realize the opportunities available to him/her, he/she will find they have a 100 different things they can do to get the leg up on the next Ivy league graduate from next door. Drexel is not a state school, it is not a school for the weak hearted or the weak minded. It will test you, it will define you, and it will make you or break you. Those that come out on the other side will have a very valuable diploma and a great mindset for what they want to accomplish in their lifetime and plan for how to accomplish those goals. At the end of the day, that should be what you are looking to receive with the costs of your college education.

  • Mechanicalfox

Thanks for your reply! I applied to Drexel for 2021 and its good to know that it’s unique from UPenn.

Goodluck!
Did you apply Early Decision too?

No, I did early action.

All right! All the best!

You too!

Well said @muu2000 !
My daughter is in her 2nd year, and your description is spot on.

That’s a hilarious question! funny thing. While visiting my daughter we walked thru the Penn campus. not alot of smiles or eye contact. As opposed to Drexel, where students laughed in line at the food trucks. Said ‘excuse me’ as they rushed past to class, and shout hello across market street. Drexel all in all seemed much less “sad” than penn. Penn on the other hand is a lovely campus.