Hi!
I’m an incoming Senior and am about to apply to college, and my two top choices right now are Vanderbilt and Northwestern! I know that I want to ED to one of these schools, but am having a super hard time deciding, and I would appreciate some guidance.
I am planning on doing a biological major on a pre-med track, and I realize that both of these schools are incredible for this topic of study. I am a super social guy, and definitely looking for a school with a good social scene and good greek life system. I want to enjoy my time in college, and am also looking for a school with a friendly campus and good off campus restaurants and bars within walking distance. From what I’ve read, Vandy seems to have a bit of a leg up there, but I am also looking for a prestigious school that will allow me to apply to top medical schools, and give me great experience and connections. I don’t really mind the cold, as I have spent lots of time in Chicago, and realize how bad it can get, but weather doesn’t seem to be a huge factor for me. I have visited both schools, but got such a similar vibe from both so would appreciate some personal experience! I am fairly confident that I wouldn’t be able to get into either of these schools with regular decision, so I think the ED opportunity will give me a significant leg up. My sister goes to UW, Madison, and although I am looking for a more prestigious school, I have loved the vibes and atmosphere of Wisconsin, and am looking for a more selective school that has the same sort of interactive social scene.
Please help me with my search! Any and all feedback is appreciated!
I’m familiar with both, & it sounds like Vanderbilt fits your criteria better. Northwestern doesn’t have an equivalent to those cozy, casual, college-oriented bars & restaurants that are right next to Vanderbilt. Evanston has lots of restaurants but they are not the type typically found in a college town–they are more upscale & more for adults than college students.
And while Chicago overall has more nightlife than Nashville, it’s harder to get to than Nashville’s entertainment district, which is right down the road a few miles.