<p>I was accepted into Michigan, WashU, Duke, and Berkeley. I'm planning on doing pre-med, with a probable major in chem. I live in Michigan, so I will be getting in-state tuition, making it the cheapest option by a long shot. Although the other schools have more prestige, I'm wondering if it is worth the extra money. Also, which school would be the best in general for placement into med school, as well as the differences in the student body/atmosphere.</p>
<p>i'm having the same problem. UMich, UChicago, or JHU. the main question is: what if you change your mind and don't end up heading for med school? then the other choices would've been better!</p>
<p>If I was given that choice, I'd have to say Michigan. Not only because in state is a huge factor, Michigan is at least in the area of the other schools. It's not like you're comparing Central Michigan University to Duke or something. They're pretty close. Is the price difference worth it? I wouldn't say so personally.</p>
<p>If money wasn't something you're worrying about, I'd have to go with JHU if you're set on doing pre med, or Berkeley. I'm not a big fan of Duke so... :)</p>
<p>Berkeley is cool because 1) its rep is awesome and 2) it is in the Bay Area and is very different than Michigan.</p>
<p>With all things being equal, it would be a good fit. The nice thing, though, about your schools is the fact that both Cal and UMich have amazing undergrad divisions. Social sciences are very strong at both those schools so if you were to change your mind you would be in a fine position.</p>
<p>Speaking to UChicago, visit the area before you decide.</p>
<p>blazingson, i've actually heard the opposite about cal's undergrad division. i heard that they don't really care about their undergrads at all and that it would be better for grad school.</p>
<p>I wouldn't say that there's any real difference in prestige between Berkeley, Michigan, and WUSTL, but Duke is definitely more prestigious than Michigan.</p>
<p>Berkeley is the strongest in Chemistry though. It has its own school of Chemistry to prove it. While Michigan is going to be the cheapest, I think Berkeley is more geared toward what you are looking for.</p>