Temple Biochemistry vs. Drexel Biological Sciences

Tuition deposit deadline is coming up rather quickly and I’m still debating between these two universities. Money wise both these schools come out pretty even with scholarships and financial aid into account. I’ve been comparing both schools for a long time now and I still can’t seem to pick. Both schools are recognized for their good academic standings, Drexel is located in a nicer area, right in University City, neighboring the University of Pennsylvania, however does not really provide much of that campus feel. Temple in the other hand provides the campus feel that Drexel lacks, but is located in a not so nice neighborhood in South Philadelphia. My plan is to be commuting to these schools my first year and then finding a place to live off campus the following years. One of the key factors in my decision making is determining which school will benefit me the most as I plan to pursue a career in medicine. Which school will provide me with the most opportunities to prepare me to apply to med schools. Volunteering time is mayor when it comes to med school and from comparing Temple and Drexel, I’ve noticed that Temple works on the most common semester calendar system and Drexel on the quarter system. Which calendar system will provide me with the most free time to partake in volunteering? What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each? I’ve read reviews online and a lot of them say that teachers at Drexel don’t really care for their students and are not good at presenting the material even if they actually have a great grasp of the concepts. Temple seems to hold better reviews but comments about safety seems to pop up everywhere. Can you guys please share your opinions and experiences? Any comments are greatly appreciated.

I know this is kind of late, but better late than never I guess?

I was in the exact same position as you last year. It was Biology at Temple or Drexel. I chose Temple and I don’t regret it. School-wise, I believe Temple is better. I have friends at Drexel and from what they say, the students at Temple are just friendlier (is that a word?). I’ve been on both campus’s and personally think Temple is nicer and more fun. Because of the close connection between all the students, there is always something going on on campus. Like blow-up bounce houses, stress puppies, and just the most random things like dance offs and mini concerts by the bell tower.

Academically, I feel that Temple is superior. Drexel does have the coop option for students which can be useful, but that extends you studies by a year (depends on which coop you choose) and you can only do it once or twice. Temple has this program called the Undergraduate Research Program. This is for students in the College of Science and Technology. Students can apply for research with Temple professors doing research for the fall, spring and summer semesters (summer is paid). A little over 50% of the students who apply to this get a research opportunity. It’s kinda like a dating site, but for students and the professors research projects. Students who reach the requirements for certain projects and select which ever one they want and meet with that professor. Also, Temple is a First Class Research Institution. This is very important when it comes to competing with other institutions. They are recognized for their work internationally and receive huge funding. Temple has a very broad range of specialties, like the Department of Zoology, Department of Microbiology, etc.

The advisors here really try to help you with everything you do. If you prove yourself to them that you are doing everything you can possible to get into med school, they will put in the same effort and do their best possible.

Another thing I like is that Temple will hold onto recommendation letters for you. If you work with a professor during the summer of your freshman or sophomore year, you can have them write a recommendation letter then rather in a few years when you apply to med school. This way, the letter will be more personal and the person writing it will be more familiar with you.

If you have anymore questions, please do not hesitate to ask.