<p>My son was accepted to both Penn State and UMass at equal cost. He'd like to graduate in language and liberal college.
We not sure what is a best fit. Penn State seems in the middle of nowhere and very Pennsylvania like, UMass could be more liberal and diverse. Can some one help us compare UMass and Penn State, what are the pros and cons of each school as both are large and state schools.
He is lay back kind of kid, multicultural.</p>
<p>Penn State probably has a somewhat better reputation overall, but it’s also twice the size of UMass, if size is a concern. UMass is located in one of the best college towns in the country and students have access to classes at 4 liberal arts colleges in the area through the Five College Consortium (Amherst, Smith, Mt. Holyoke and Hampshire). Some would say the campus is a con, but I find it attractive except for a few ugly buildings. You should visit UMass if you can, it really is in a beautiful area. UMass seems pretty multicultural to this white, middle class, middle age male, but I’m probably not the one to provide a useful perspective on that. I’m sure he could find a compatible group at either place. I’m not sure what you mean by “liberal college” as a major. Do you mean liberal arts?</p>