Hi! I have recently been admitted to both universities. I am from Michigan so I am in state for MSU. I was awarded a scholarship from Ohio state that cut my cost down significantly (prominence scholarship) so ultimately it would cost me around the same, if not a little more to attend MSU (very minor difference). I am planning to go into finance, minoring in marketing and they both have amazing business schools. My question is where do you think I would have the best college experience. Since the academics are very comparable, it comes down to the social, environmental aspect of both.
which college town is more livable?
which is a bigger party school?
which has a better Greek life?
which has more school spirit, and traditions that bring the school population together
Ultimately, where will I experience the best 4 years of my life.
East Lansing is a small but pleasant college town. Columbus is a big city with a population rapidly approaching 1 million. Other than that, the two schools are very similar. They are both large, with lively party scenes and loads of school spirit. They also both have active Greek communities that make up roughly 10% of their undergraduate student populations.
I can see you having a great experience at both universities.
It may come down to what you want to study, as the two universities differ in their strengths. Both are in state capitols so you will have access to political internships. You will probably have better business internship opportunities in Columbus because of the large concentration of insurance and technology companies in the area, although there are plenty around Lansing too. The other factor could be conditions on your scholarship (min GPA etc) - may be an issue if 3.5, less so for 3.0. Will it extend an extra year if you cannot complete your program on time?
I’d characterize the OSU fans as a bit more rabid, but you have plenty of spirit at both places. MSU has good FB and BB though. I would definitely go to admitted students days and get a good feel for what life would be like during the school year.
I actually have been to both schools, and liked both. I would definitely say that i did like the central campus of Ohio State better, but the houses around the campus just wasn’t as nice as MSU; which is greener, and cleaner. I’d have to keep a 3.0 for my scholarship which i feel like i can. I’m just so conflicted and need more opinions to truly make a final decision. I do plan on attending both admitted students day, but since i have visited my friends at both schools, i kind of understand the culture of both schools, which i like.