DS is deciding between NEU, Drexel and UVM, accepted for Env Sc or Ecology and Evolutionary Bio but has decided he wants Bio (with a view to focus on Genetics) as it hasn’t felt quite right and he "hasn’t found his people yet " at admitted student days. It does seem more him and broad enough to gradually focus as he progresses. He does plan to do research as UG, attend grad school and likes the idea of Co-op.
He received merit for Drexel and UVM, which means no debt at UVM, a small amount for Drexel and a decent amount at NEU.
He favors NEU w/ the name, he loved the campus and Boston, and it felt right for him. The price is the only issue. We are trying to make it happen.
We know Drexel has a very good rep for Bio and the genetics field especially so with the major switch it’s more of a contender. It’s closest to home (not necessarily a plus), he’d love Philly and the vibe.
UVM makes sense financially, he was admitted into Rubenstein which is a great school if it offers what you want, but now a switch to either Arts & Science or Agriculture & Life Science schools means we are not v familiar. Trying to get a quick visit back to have a glimpse before decision time. He’s not a skier yet but v athletic. He knows Burlington well. it is smaller but still a great college town and beautiful area. I think he’s cautious of the UVM stoner reputation, more from other peoples’ perceptions than his own, he knows about the WE community and clean living emphasis which is totally him.
We would appreciate any input while we weigh the options. Thanks all. It certainly is a process…
@junani , I’m in the Philly burbs with UVM Engineering student. My kid is EXTREMELY conservative and it surprised all of us that he chose a school known to be liberal and stoner reputation. He had not had issues avoiding the party culture and has made plenty of friends.
All that said, I have been extremely disappointed in the major cuts in Arts & Science due to budget while simultaneously hiring a new President at a rate over $200k more than outgoing president. Please look into these cuts and Google articles.
There is NO money being paid to students with an undergrad degree in Biology.
I would advise my kid to get a solid undergrad education and plan graduate school ( so Drexel to grad school) or if only planning undergrad, take the school with least debt.
Based on a dozen folks I know who have come out with Bio and no grad school in the last 7 years, the earnings in Philly are 27k to 36k.
thank you @longhaul all v good points. I didn’t know about the change in arts & science funding at UVM, will look into it. Glad your son is enjoying UVM. I’ve wondered about Biomed Eng and similar areas, seems to be a lot of growth. Appreciate your input.
What did your DS decide? Is he happy with his decision? MY DD is trying to decide between UVM and NU. NU is her top choice but she also received a presidential scholarship for UVM and our OOP expense for NU is exorbitant.
DS is a NU sophomore and has not looked back. He found his people almost immediately, has expanded his circle steadily across majors, loves NU, loves Boston. The university had been strict and effective in managing Covid. He works hard and the culture supports this. It is $, but we feel the degree and experiences from Co-op he will graduate with will be worth it for him.
I’m sure you are aware that while in co-op the students are not paying any NU fees/tuition, earn $ typically, gain up to 18 months full time work experience which can lead to a position on graduation, but living expenses/rent are needed. If they find one near home it can be cost effective.
I think UVM is a great choice, we love Burlington and it would have been a different experience. They get out what they put in. Seeing the young man our DS has become, he chose the best fit for him.
Good luck with your DD’s decision. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Thank you so much for your response! I’m so glad to hear that your DS made the right choice with NU, and that you are seeing the results. Thank you for confirming the information about the co-ops-very helpful! I will definitely reach out if I have more questions:)