<pre><code> I am a rising senior considering applying to Swarthmore. I am very interested in neuroscience research, and would like to pursue it at a very high level in college. The specific types of research I'm interested (fMRI) are really only found at big universities, not small liberal arts colleges. That being said, I like a lot of what I see in Swat, even though it doesn't really afford me the type of research opportunities I'd like.
</code></pre>
<p>Now, UPenn has the kinds of things I'd want to do. But honestly, I like the looks of Swarthmore a lot better than UPenn and like my chances of getting in Swat better too. Is it possible for a Swarthmore student to be involved in research at UPenn? How much involvement is their between Swarthmore and UPenn?</p>
<p>Swarthmore students can take classes at UPenn, and some do research there (at least over the summer). I do not know anything specifically about neuroscience though...</p>
<p>Unless you are a Swat legacy, I would disagree with the premise that Swarthmore is easier to get into than UPenn.</p>
<p>If you are interested in neuroscience fields, you should get in touch with the head of the Bio department at Swarthmore and find out from the horse's mouth what a course of study might look like and what opportunities for paid research assistant positions might be available. Many Swat students have paid research positions during the school year. Many more during the summer -- both at Swat and at other schools and research facilities.</p>
<p>I would also contact the head of the department at UPenn and ask the same questions.</p>
<p>If you are visiting this fall, you could set up meetings with the professors at both schools and get the cook's tour, tailored to your specific interests.</p>