Sorry for another one of these threads... NU Econ vs Duke

Colleges and Universities A-Z Northwestern University
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<p>I apologize for adding yet another comparison thread, but I'm absolutely torn. I love both Duke and NU. I plan on studying economics (I love econ) with a minor/possible double major in math. I also definitely want to add other cool courses too (like philosophy, etc). Basically, I want to study econ, math, and other intriguing courses.</p>

<p>I am also looking to get a job in finance after graduation, so job recruitment is important to me.</p>

<p>At NU: Econ department is probably a bit better than Duke's. The Kellogg Certificate is really appealing as it is very quantitative, and I heard it looks good to employers as well. But I heard it's competitive to get into (I'm up for the challenge, but I don't want extra stress in college).</p>

<p>The quarter system seems nice as I can take a lot of classes, but I've heard it is very demanding and stressful due to many more midterms, etc. Also, the quarter system kinda messes up the school year.</p>

<p>I love NU's location (Evanston is nice and Chicago isn't far away.. I took the train to Chicago when I was there) and the campus/lake is really nice. However, it gets REALLY cold (I dont love the cold but I can survive).</p>

<p>I also heard that NU is segregated based on what school people are in (from people with friend there), but I dont know how true this is.</p>

<p>Three of my close friends are going to NU, so it would nice to already have a few good friends and not going into college not knowing anyone.</p>

<p>At Duke: Although the econ department might not be as good, the job recruitment definitely seems to be better. I won't be able to take as many classes due to the semester system, but there are less midterms and the school year is normal in terms of start/end dates.</p>

<p>I do like, however, the PPE certificate and other options for me to explore my interests. Still, Duke has some annoying foreign language requirements (will I able to get out of them since I am native in Polish?).</p>

<p>The weather is MUCH better, but Duke isn't very urban. I love the campus, but it seems annoying to travel between east and west campus the entire time. I would also like to visit restaurants and malls in the city, and it seems like this is possible at Duke with the buses, etc. but I'm not 100% how easy it is.</p>

<p>I LOVE DUKE BASKETBALL! It seems like an amazing experience as I am an avid basketball fan.</p>

<p>I'm also not 100% about the social vibe of Duke. When I was there I met a lot of really nice and open people, but I also got the rich, white southern vibe a little bit. I'm not sure if Greek Life is for me, and I'm not sure how overwhelming Greek Life can be Duke (I've spoken to many people about this, and most say its not too bad).</p>

<p>Any insight please? Which college will give me more flexibility to study what i want to study (like taking the courses that I want to take). I can see myself going to both colleges. Thanks in advance.</p>

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<p>At NU, you can easily double major across different schools, and doing three majors are not a raritly. S is in EE, ISP and is going to start Kellog Certificate next year…so it is doable. He hasn’t complanined about the stress factor yet, so go figure!</p>

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<p>I am an NU alum and have a daughter at NU. If I had to choose between Duke and NU for myself today, I would probably chose Duke (just personal preference mostly due to weather!). They are both outstanding schools. You cannot make a bad choice here. But, from reading your description, it sounds like you like NU better. Just go for it.</p>

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<p>Econ/stats double major. Double majors are typically very easy to fit into a normal schedule, possibly barring a few of the engineering and natural sciences majors. A typical double-major course load will probably leave room for another minor, or for about a dozen electives, just thinking off the top of my head.</p>

<p>The Kellogg certificate will almost certainly admit you if you can make the prerequisites–they require multivariable calc and linear algebra, statistical coursework, as well as some economics. Look on their website for the details.</p>

<p>The faculty in the quantitative (math/stat) and social sciences departments are very available and extremely keen to help their students learn. It’s been a pleasure to work with all of them. I seriously can’t emphasize how good the faculty-student experience is in those departments. It’s very easy to inquire about possible research, particularly with a professor that you’ve built a relationship with. In general, student opportunities are very present.</p>

<p>Midterms for social sciences, math, and stats will typically be 1-2 a quarter, which translates to an exam every 3-5 weeks, plus finals. Psets will typically be assigned weekly, as well. Pace is fast, which makes office hours critical to success if you aren’t a pro with the material. Upper-level (throughout the departments) and humanities courses may assign papers in addition to or in lieu of some or all of your psets and exams, depending on the course.</p>

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<p>Chris Collins says: If you are 6ft 8in + and can play a little round ball, , come to NU! </p>

<p>You don’t even have to be an NU Econ Major to think of the coverage - and the potential for future earnings - as NU finally makes it to the the NCAA Tourney. And Beyond!</p>