<p>To the OP:</p>
<p>I think the reason we are trying soooo hard to come up with distinctions is that both schools are really really good places to be. There are a lot of "on the other hands."</p>
<p>The campuses "felt" very different to me--not better or worse, just different. So, if all other things are roughly equal (finances, degree programs, etc.), I think you'll know what to do after you visit.</p>
<p>Let us know what you think, OK?</p>
<p>I grew up in Evanston. Do not underestimate how cold it is in the winter near Lake Michigan. I would pick the college which has the program/major most closely suited for your interests. Northwestern is famous for its theater and journalism programs, as well as other programs. Go see both schools during the accepted students week-end and your decision will be clear.</p>
<p>OK, I have to say -- the amount of space cold weather seems to take up on so many threads has led me to conclude that the real divide among Americans is not Democratic/Republican but warm weather/cold weather!</p>
<p>I agree with most of the posters here that you will only know which school is best for your son by visiting both. I have a son who is a senior at NU (Journalism, Poly Sci, Creative Writing) and a daughter who will be a freshman at WUSTL (Fashion Design, Art, Psychology) this coming fall. We absolutely love both schools for different reasons, many listed above by others. The semesters vs. quarters academic calendar was a big factor for us. My son, who can be a huge procrastinator, really needed the time structure that the quarter system provided. He learned that he couldn't leave studying for the last minute, as he did in high school. The quarter system forced him to improve his study habits, since midterms and finals come upon him so quickly there. On the other hand, my more diligent daughter, who takes longer to get through readings/assignments will fare much better with the extra time available with the semester system. It really is a very individual thing. There are some students who might be able to do well regardless of the calendar system. But, for my kids, it was a key factor. Congratulations and good luck to your son as he makes his choice.</p>
<p>To the OP: Were you admitted to a particular school or program at either Washington Univ. in St. Louis or Northwestern University? Do you plan to study abroad? Do you want to double major? Do you want to enroll during a summer term?</p>