<p>Any knowledge of ANY of these schools (Northwestern, Princeton, Rice) would be greatly appreciated, whether regarding overall academics, social life, etc.. It's almost decision time, and I have no idea where I should go next year... thanks!</p>
<p>We visited both Northwestern and Rice over the last week to look at music schools. Are you a music major?</p>
<p>That being said each of these schools was very different. Northwestern was much larger; the main feature my D noticed is that many students wore headphones and seemed to move in their own bubble. We met some friends of friends who are engineering majors. They love Northwestern and make a point to go downtown to Chicago on a weekly basis via train. The campus is lovely - on a lake with lakefront paths for walking and running. Great fitness facilities for students.</p>
<p>Rice was a friendly campus. My D loved the layout and the idea of residence halls. Both the tour guide and student who hosted us at lunch loved it there. One had transferred from a much larger school for the last two years and said she was much happier. Library is open 24 hours most days. The campus looked like each building was brand new although many buildings are 90+.</p>
<p>I'm Rice over Princeton because of weather and their grade inflation policies. Imagine trying to get an A in any of their chem classes with all the premed's there. I need to keep some hair for grad school.</p>
<p>Uhh, doesn't grade inflation mean many A's given? It would probably be easier to get high grades from Princeton over Rice right?</p>
<p>I think Princeton is trying to fight its grade inflation. Whatever they do, it should not make a difference to your pre-med aspirations. The med schools know about grade inflation, and they will know if Princeton makes a concerted effort to fight it.</p>
<p>Princeton has a huge success rate at getting its pre-med students placed -- especially the ones who survive orgo! -- in good med programs. This fact will not change.</p>