So, I got accepted into the JMU honors program and I got accepted into VTech (but I didn’t apply for honors there). What should I do? Which choice would be better for my future (I plan on going to law school after this undergrad as a history major)
Which has the stronger history program? Which feels better for you? Which is cheaper considering you’re planning on law school?
Have you visited each campus? I’ve been to both and they are quite different in terms of size and location. Also, do you care about the excitement of Division I sports? VTech is obviously deeply involved in big-time sports, which can be tremendously fun. Have you checked out each school’s list of clubs and activities? As an attorney myself (UVA Law), I can tell you that campus involvement is important when applying to law school. Have you looked at the schools’ course catalogs to see which history department has the courses that appeal the most to you? Each school will have different class offerings. You should also check out the schools’ lists of majors and minors, in case history grows less desirable, you want a particular minor, or you decide to double major. Also, recognize that Tech has an amazing alumni network, particularly in the DC area.
Read the schools’ papers online to check out the campus culture. See what the students think of the school by googling “10 Best Things about JMU,” “Best professors at Virginia Tech,” “Best classes at JMU,” “Top 10 Experiences in Blacksburg.”
Really, I wouldn’t focus on which school is academically “best,” unless one clearly outshines the other in your intended history major. You need to focus on where you will thrive — be excited about your classes, find yourself eager to join clubs and activities, like the local town and environment well enough that it provides a good distraction and gives you an excellent four years. Great grades and involvement will get you to law school from either of these schools, so visit and decide where you are most likely to be happy and engaged.