I got into both JHU and Vanderbilt and I’m having a hard time choosing. Still undecided for my major, but thinking either Math or Psychology/Neuroscience. I’m also looking to get involved in music performance. Amount of financial aid is the same.
I’m from the north so JHU has a lot more prestige here—would a degree from JHU be more helpful in the long-run in terms of careers? Also my parents know a prof there so making connections will be a lot easier; we don’t know anyone from Nashville.
Overall JHU is a lot more renowned for its academics and research. How much “more” does it offer in terms of internship opportunities and quality of instruction compared to Vanderbilt? For my prospective majors JHU rank a lot higher than Vanderbilt and I’m not sure how important that is.
I’m completely sold on JHU’s academics, but I hear that the atmosphere is super stressful and unhealthy. When I visited, Vanderbilt seemed a lot friendlier and had better architecture. I also like how Blair at Vanderbilt is much more integrated with campus than Peabody at JHU, so music-wise I’m going to have more opportunities.
Pretty much, my concerns with Vanderbilt is 1. No connections there 2. Less prestige/quality of academics? 3. I heard the student body is a little racist? – But I like the Commons system a lot and it had a nice feel.
For JHU: 1. Cutthroat student body 2. City isn’t the safest place 3. Less chances for me to get involved with music – But stellar academics and research, more prestige
My parents are leaning more towards JHU although I didn’t enjoy my visit there as much, but I don’t know how Vanderbilt’s academic quality holds up.
Thanks for any insight.