Penn or Duke for pre med?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Duke University
1

<p>I am absolutely in love with both schools, and I am certain that I can get into med school from either of them. How do I make a decision when I'm so torn?</p>

<p>I was also admitted to the University of Chicago, but I've pretty much ruled it out because the academics seem very intimidating and I'm not the type of person who thrives in a cutthroat environment. I want to attend a school which places an emphasis on collaboration over competition.
I want to have a thriving social life but still be challenged intellectually, and I want the opportunity to interact closely with faculty members. Both Penn and Duke are renowned for their med schools and biomedical research, but where do you think it would be easier for me to get involved?
Which student body is considered more intellectual? How safe is Penn's campus compared to Duke's? Is safety a concern at either school? </p>

<p>I come from a middle class background, so I don't want to be surrounded by pretentious preps. Which school has more of those? </p>

<p>Sorry for asking so many questions!</p>

2

<p>I would HIGHLY recommend visiting both campuses. Come to Blue Devil Days (and I think Penn has something similar) and see for yourself. This will give you the best feel for the atmosphere at each school. Good luck with your decision!</p>

3

<p>Very similar schools I’ll agree and say visit. Academically it’s a toss up, it really comes down to the opportunities and the fit that you feel.</p>

4

<p>Yeah it’s a tough call for sure. I’m also pre-med and had to make the choice between Duke and Penn. I’m going with Penn, but it was definitely not an easy decision as both are great schools.</p>

<p>I wouldn’t try to compare them in terms of overall pre-med opportunities or prestige, which may be your first instinct. They really are equal in that regard. You should try and decide what you’d prefer as far as campus life, Durham vs Philly, etc. You can search up other Duke vs Penn threads for more info as well, and decide what you think would be the best fit for yourself.</p>