<p>Considering that Cornell is so large, is there really any advantage to going to Cornell over say a good state school like Mich, Berkeley, etc? What differences are there between Cornell and a state school? (yes I know that CALS, ILR, and HE are statutory).</p>
<p>Michigan and Berkeley are both fantastic schools, and you certainly couldn't go wrong in choosing any of the three. I would say that Cornell is still a significant amount smaller than those "pure" state schools (Cornell = 13,500, Michigan = 25,500, Berkeley = 23,800). But more importantly, are any of these three schools in-state for you? If so, financial considerations are pretty important. You also have to look at exactly what it is you're interested in studying - for example, you won't really be able to study Hotel Administraton at a place like Michigan or Berkeley.</p>
<p>Finally, all other things equal, the surrounding areas of these three places are pretty different. You'd have to tour them (or at least take a closer look) to really get a feel for life outside of campus.</p>
<p>While Cornell is a great institution, it is not the school for everyone. Depending on who you are, you might find the UMich atmosphere more preferrable to Cornell's. If u like to get abundant access to school spirit, big sporting events, goin out partin and checking out some ladies(if ur a guy), UMich would serve u much better. However, Cornell would serve u better if u wanna meet some of the most ambitious and intelligent students and hang out with them. Academically, I would say Cornell is a notch up from UMich or Berkeley. but, if ur a instate resident in Cali or Mich, u should definitely consider Umich or Berk to save some serious cash.</p>
<p>I was also a little apprehensive about Cornell's size before coming on campus. But now that I've been here for more than a year, I think I've gained some perspective. Of course, I lean more toward Cornell, but that's probably because it's the only thing I know. Most of my friends at state schools (Michigan and Wisconsin in particular) have loved their experiences.</p>
<p>Anyway, one obvious thing that sets Cornell apart from state schools: Ivy League education. Yes, people like to point out that the Ivy League was originally a sports conference, but now, without question, it's also connected with prestige. It's true that state schools everywhere attract smart students and top-notch faculty. However, as an Ivy League institution, I would say that Cornell has an extra edge in attracting the smartest and the brightest from all over the country and the world. You'll meet incredible people here with all kinds of talent.</p>
<p>To state the obvious again, the prestige of the Ivies also helps in getting jobs after graduation. Berkeley and Michigan are great schools, and you'll likely be lucky in the job market with those names in your resume, especially if you're looking in-state. Nevertheless, people are always impressed by an Ivy League education, and Cornell has quite a lot of respect among employers across the nation.</p>
<p>If you're a die-hard college football fan, then a state school like Michigan might be a better fit for you. Cornell football isn't anything to brag about. ;) I think people generally associate large state schools with having more school spirit than private colleges. I don't think I'd go that far in describing Cornell though. Generally, people at Cornell have great pride in their school. You can see it most vividly at Lynah whenever the hockey team is playing. But Cornell has other great sports teams as well. Right now, both basketball teams are on a great run for the Ivy League championship and a possible spot in the NCAA tournament. The cheering in Newman during men's basketball games has been insane. Also, men's lacrosse and wrestling have been very strong programs, and people get excited over those sports (particularly lacrosse) as well.</p>
<p>And Cornell has a bunch of fun/random things that set it apart from every school, not just state schools. I know that every college has its own little quirks, but since I'm a Cornellian, I'm most familiar with the things that set Cornell apart. For instance, I love that Cornell produces its own dairy products (Dairy Bar ice cream!). I thought it was amazing when I first heard about that, and I'm not even a food science major. I love hearing Disney songs, Coldplay, and the Beatles playing from the clocktower. I like that I can take interesting courses about fungi, sex, and wine-tasting.</p>
<p>Plus, you'd be surprised at how small the school can seem sometimes. Although 13,000 students may seem like a lot, I always run into familiar faces whenever I walk across Ho Plaza. If you have a strong group of friends, the campus can seem a lot cozier.</p>
<p>I had more to write about, but my brain is a little worn out from prelims and studying. I'm sure others will have better things to say. In the end, choosing between a state school and Cornell is really up to personal preference. In-state residents especially might want to take advantage of the reduced tuition and in-state prestige at state schools. Others may be more attracted to the idea of the Ivy League and the things that come with that connection. It's all up to what you value.</p>
<p>great posts you guys! </p>
<p>how about using SWOT analysis in picking your college? </p>
<pre><code> * Strengths: attributes of the organization that are helpful to achieving the objective.
* Weaknesses: attributes of the organization that are harmful to achieving the objective.
* Opportunities: external conditions that are helpful to achieving the objective.
* Threats: external conditions that are harmful to achieving the objective.
</code></pre>
<p>no not reminders of AEM 220! :p</p>