<p>Hey there, I'm a senior at a high school in Minnesota, and I'm having a really hard time deciding which college to attend. I've been accepted to both UW Madison and Ohio State, and because of a scholarship from OSU, both would cost about the same. </p>
<p>I know the reputation of both, and how good the academics supposedly are, so I'm looking more for answers about the college experience at those schools. </p>
<p>How are the people there?
I'm interested in majoring in physics, what have you heard about that major?
How is the quality of the dorms?
What are the classes like?
What are some traditions?
Tell me a little more about the nightlife.
Also, how are the surrounding parts of the city and state? I like outdoorsy stuff so what does the area have to offer?
Tell me anything about the schools unless you're a UMichigan student who's trolling.</p>
<p>Is there a college GPA required to renew the scholarship at tOSU? If so, and the GPA is high (like 3.5 or so), be aware of the risk of losing it and consider whether you can afford to continue if you lose it. Wisconsin may be financially a bit safer in this respect, and if there is a possibility of needing an extra semester not covered by the scholarship at tOSU.</p>
<p>I haven’t been to both colleges, but I’ve been to Madison and it is a great college town. There is a ton of stuff to do there. There is a entire pedestrian street called State Street where undergraduates go for fun. There are many music venues and street fairs and festivals of all kinds. Good food to be found. The campus is on the lake and the student union has a huge awesome terrace and a boat dock. There are bike paths everywhere and groups that go on 50 mile pleasure rides. Good bus transportation. You might get to Chicago for a weekend here or there.</p>
<p>As a parent of UW student, I can’t imagine a better college town, primarily because it has something for everyone (unless what you really want is a rural, isolated experience). State capital, so lots of internships and opportunity for involvement that way. Its on the lake, so water sports (and winter sports on the ice). Gorgeous nature paths through Lakeshore neighborhood and more urban living in southeast. Big sports, Greek life for those interested but not dominant so isn’t a source of division on the campus. Great food, music, etc. About the only downside my son has stumbled onto is that the Apple store is in the mall and when his phone crashed during finals, he didn’t want to take the time to go out to the mall to mess with it. </p>
<p>Unless you like OSU football there is no real reason to choose it over Wisconsin. Madison is nicer than Columbus (which is okay, but nothing special).</p>
Which did you end up choosing?
I’m in the same boat you were in but a year later. Hope you’re happy with it! Currently trying to decide between the two.