<p>I'm looking to major in political science/IR, and be involved in politics in some way. I've been accepted to these three great schools, and I'm looking to compare how they will work for me on these fronts:</p>
<p>1) The academics: I'd like to pursue a rigorous education, but I'd like to also be able to do well for myself, maintain a good GPA and be able to move on to maybe law school or grad school.</p>
<p>2) Social life: I'm not looking for a 24-7 party school, but I'm certainly looking for people to be active and engaged, and extroverted socially. This is my big qualm with Chicago, but from what I've heard their reputation on this issue is evolving.</p>
<p>3) Extracurricular experience: I've done a lot of work on political campaigns and in political offices, and I'd like to continue the opportunity to be involved in politics on campus (Government?) and maybe off campus as well.</p>
<p>I suggest visiting ** Johns Hopkins ** this month because based on what you’ve said, Hopkins sounds like a perfect fit for you. International Studies is highly reputable there and they have major faculty in the department, teaching. Students go on to Law school at a very high rate - and to highly selective programs. The school is definitely active and engaged but it’s smaller (4800 students) and is in a city.</p>
<p>Because of your interest in government you’d be able to get down to DC (doesn’t get more gov’t than that) whenever you wanted as there is a train that runs back and forth every day and takes about 50 minutes. Lots of internships on the Hill or anything of that nature.</p>
<p>I think Hopkins will give you the academic rigor that Chicago will and the social life that Tufts will but will give you a great location too with access to incredible resources.</p>
<p>Take a read of the student run international politics journal:</p>