<p>Alright what is your opinion? Penn College of Arts and Sciences vs. Middlebury. I'm interested in 'International Relations'-type courses: history, economics, political science, maybe continue with some language. What are your opinions when comparing these academic programs, prestige, job opportunities after graduation, and perhaps more importantly campus life - housing, dining, social, 'college feel'. In particular, what is the feel of Penn being in a big city? Thanks for your contributions!!!</p>
<p>Penn CAS vs. Middlebury is going to be very similar in the prestige department--if anything the nod goes to Penn just because of the whole Ivy league thing. However, they are both recruited heavily so don't let that be the defining factor.</p>
<p>Middlebury is known for languages and international relations while Penn is known primarily for Wharton and then for the CAS programs.</p>
<p>As far as the campus feel, that's something where nobody will be able to recommend one or the other. It's entirely your call whether you want a rural LAC with a major undergrad emphasis, very small classes, etc. or an urban research university with Ivy prestige but the drawbacks as well--TAs, big classes, lack of undergrad emphasis.</p>
<p>Obviously I'm kind of biased but I'm sure you'll pick the right one for you. I'm assuming you were accepted to one and just got off the waitlist at the other? If you can still manage, go visit, otherwise go with your gut and pick the one that feels best. Hope to see you in Vermont next year.</p>
<p>If you go to Penn CAS, be prepared for a vortex of not very flattering comparisons: to Wharton, other Ivy League colleges, to other East Coast cities. Of course, there are opportunities if you have a thick enough skin. But, personally, I'd pick any NESCAC college over Penn, Brown or Cornell.</p>
<p>eric22 - </p>
<p>The size of Penn undergraduate might be a big turnoff. Why spend that kind of money to sit in a class of several hundred to be taught by a graduate teaching assistant? Plus it's an inner city school which can be a negative for many.</p>
<p>The only thing about Middlebury is its rural location - which could be a plus or a minus depending upon what kind of setting you like.</p>