<p>I had originally wanted to apply to the ISP program (I was seriously considering medical school, and I figured the rigor and prestige of the program would help me). </p>
<p>But I later decided that I preferred a more liberal arts learning atmosphere as opposed to purely and extensively math and science. I want to be able to take linguistic courses, economics courses, literature courses, etc etc. </p>
<p>I want to know how the sciences (and maths) are at NU for students who aren't in the ISP program. Undoubtedly, being in ISP is incredibly worth it for STEM students. But what about for those that aren't in the program? (I'm also interested in the MENU program.)</p>
<p>It depends on what science you are interested in. Chemistry at Northwestern in particular is very, very good. They have huge resources at the school, and the department is very well respected around the nation. The physics department isn’t particularly large, but from what I understand it is a very thorough undergraduate experience. Biology has massive research resources and operates at a very high level. Generally, you can really not go wrong at a school like Northwestern.</p>
<p>MENU is not a program that people generally opt into on a whim. It’s for those who are very much interested in learning fundamental mathematics, and want to garner a deeper understanding into some pretty complicated formulations. Although certainly it isn’t nearly as all-consuming as ISP is. But that being said, I know of a number of people in ISP who are very well-rounded individuals - involved in a number of aspects of the university. By no means would I say that it excludes you from the liberal arts environments of NU. Everyone takes those types of class at Northwestern. I was a ChE and regularly took classes in the language departments and so forth. I wouldn’t be too worried about that aspect, especially because of the flexibility the quarter system offers to students - you’ll have plenty of chances to delve into your other interests. </p>
<p>@Majman - Thank you! So would you still recommend I apply to ISP? I mostly want to avoid an MIT/CalTech-like learning environment. Nothing against these fantastic schools, but I already come from a very science-y high school. I want variation and a different experience, not just a bigger version of it. </p>
<p>However, I am very interested in the perks that being in ISP seems to bring - grad school acceptances, scholarships, recognition, etc. Do you have further insight/suggestions? (BTW, I want to do premed, if that changes anything.)</p>
<p>Also, as far as MENU goes, I’m seriously considering a major in mathematics anyway. Regardless of my career field, I’m convinced that having a solid understanding in math can go a long way.</p>
<p>I happen to go to Caltech now, and I can guarantee you you will not find the type of environment we have here at Northwestern. It’s simply not in the culture, nor in the type of people that you find go to Northwestern. So seriously do not worry about it.</p>
<p>I’m frankly not too sure about the ISP/pre-med combo. There certainly will be some overlap in the classes you will be required to take, but it will certainly be a pretty rough course load I imagine. You have to keep in mind to, if you do have a desire to go to a professional school, it’s all about the grades. But then again, ISP does have a pretty awesome reputation when it comes to people getting into good schools beyond Northwestern. I’d take a look at the requirements, see how much the align with your interests and go from there. If the classes seem like something you’d be deeply interested in pursuing, then go for it. If not, try out the math route you’re interested in.</p>