I have to make a final decision really soon, but I’m absolutely torn between UAB and the University of Alabama. I plan to major in nursing, and eventually become a Nurse Practitioner (and hopefully specialize in orthopedics). I’ve researched and apparently UAB has the better nursing program. I really loved UAB when I visited there. But at the same time, I feel drawn to UA for the bigger college “experience,” but I don’t really know anyone going there and that makes me slightly nervous. I have visited both of them and I loved both campuses. The only thing I worry about with UAB is safety, because I’ve heard Birmingham can be pretty dangerous sometimes. I keep going back & forth over which one I want to go to, because they are both really great schools, but I think in terms of just my major UAB would be the better option, but I also want the college experience. Does anyone have any advice, or went to (or is currently attending) either school for nursing?
I would not worry about the fact that you do not know anyone yet at the University of Alabama. Many people arrive on campus without knowing anyone, and they make friends in their dorms, classes, and clubs. You might find it reassuring to look online at the listing of student organizations and think about ways you would like to get involved.
As someone familiar with both UAB and UA nursing, I wouldn’t say that UAB is “better”…they’re both excellent. A couple of years ago, Bama built a brand new fabulous College of Nursing building which is completely state of the art.
If you qualify for honors at Bama, then certainly please sign up for Alabama Action, Outdoor Action or Blackbelt Action…those occur the week before classes start and are GREAT ways to meet a bunch of new pals.
I don’t think sign ups are happening yet…let me get you info…
Go to Alabama. For nursing, the differences in quality of the schools is minimal, and the college experience as you call it will be much better in Tuscaloosa.
I see that you did qualify for full tuition award at Bama. Super!
Bama has a 99-100% pass rate on the NCLEX exam. the program is superb and your classmates will be top-notch.