<p>Hello! With all of my results in, it's finally time to make a decision, and these two schools are probably my top choices. I want to study business, which means econ at UChicago and McIntire at UVA. I think I would like the more practical curriculum at McIntire more so than the intense, theoretical approach of UChicago's econ major. But, I like the smaller, "quirkier" atmosphere of UChicago more than UVA, even though I'm sure I could find my niche within either school. In addition, I don't think I would necessarily LOVE the core (brown was my first choice, but finaid isn't great) or the quarter system (like taking more classes, don't like frequent midterms&finals). Location isn't really an issue, and I've visited both campuses. UChicago costs a little more than UVA, but they're both doable. I guess to sum it all up, I'm concerned about the intense, academic vibe at UChicago and the preppy, collegiate (not interested in greek life) atmosphere at UVA. Would love any insight!</p>
<p>There are too many things you don’t like at Chicago. UVA is a great school, and I’m sure you will find a way to make a large school a small school for you.</p>
<p>Intro economics and McIntire business classes are huge. At Chicago, students may take one grad business course per quarter after the first year - up to a max of six courses. These count only as general elective credit but not towards an economics major. So its possible to pick up a course in accounting, finance or marketing without being an undergrad biz major.</p>
<p>“the intense, theoretical approach of UChicago’s econ major” If you look carefully, you’ll see that in opting for the easy track, the major is not too difficult. Four quarter’s worth of intermediate micro/marco theory, four courses of electives, plus the math and stat/econometrics requirements gives you a lot of opportunity to explore other subjects. (2 intro courses are optional.) The core takes the menu approach to general education and is not as restrictive as it used to be.</p>
<p>UVA students tend to pride themselves as to how much they can drink but still be good students. Outsiders familiar with UVA don’t view it in the same light as its students and alumni.</p>
<p>If you want high end careers (hedge funds, investment banking, sales & trading, etc.), Chicago has a big advantage over UVa because Chicago can help you compete with students from Wharton, Harvard, Princeton, Dartmouth, Columbia, etc. Elite employers are usually filled exclusively with elite private school graduates (e.g. Bridgewater: [Bridgewater</a> - Meet Our People: Bridgewater Employee Profiles](<a href=“Home — Bridgewater Associates”>Home — Bridgewater Associates)).</p>
<p>Really appreciating everyone’s advice so far! But, @bigbird, that’s one thing I forgot to mention: I know I absolutely do not want to have a career in finance. I’m leaning towards something more creative, such as management or marketing. I think I would be happy in a wide range of industries (retail, technology, entertainment, etc.) as well, just not finance haha. I’ll also probably end up getting my MBA at some point.</p>
<p>UVA or Uchicago? Go do your research and see which school is a better fit for you! Only YOU can decide!!</p>
<p>You said you don’t like core curriculums (Gen E requirements)… Just curious, were you selected as an Echols scholar at UVA? If so, you’re exempt from all Gen E requirements, have priority registration, and live in honors housing your first year so this might be a consideration. If you weren’t selected, you can apply spring of your freshman year. </p>
<p>Another thing to think about is that you must apply to McIntire spring of your second year, and competition can be intense.</p>
<p>No I wasn’t chosen for Echols, but UVA’s core requirements seem more flexible/manageable than UChicago’s.</p>
<p>I visited UVA the other day, and spoke with a couple of students, and they both agreed that Greek Life doesn’t dominate the Grounds, and that there are plenty of things for non-Greeks to do. I got the feeling that while UVA comes off as pretty preppy, in reality, there’s a place for everyone. I also got the feeling that there definitely is the “work hard, play hard” mantra there, so that’s something to consider…but again, I think if you choose not to drink, it’s no big deal. It seems like you’re leaning towards UVA.</p>
<p>whoops !!!</p>
<p>sorry to revive this thread again, but after recently visiting uchicago and talking with current students, I’m unsure if it’s a good fit for me, in terms of opportunities in business as well as the overall atmosphere. But, I’m still hesitant to turn down the #4 school in the country. If I’m probably going to get my MBA anyway, will McIntire put me at a significant disadvantage because of UVA’s lesser prestige?</p>
<p>Both are great, and you should choose based on fit. However, my vote is for Chicago.</p>
<p>Chicago is not a good choice at all for someone who wants to major in business, is not enthusiastic about the Core, and also has doubts about the overall atmosphere. There is no point choosing it just because it has a higher magazine ranking than the alternative.</p>
<p>cac815…Our D turned down the #12 for UVA and hasn’t regretted it (rising 4th year). UVA has the “whole package” (sporting events that EVERYONE attends; INCREDIBLE traditions like secret societies, streaking the lawn, steam tunneling, taking your professors out to lunch on UVA’s $, and of course, EVERYTHING Jefferson; mild weather; an active Greek community for those interested; a vibrant college town with music and tons of restaurants that’s close to DC, Richmond, and the beach; and awesome academics like a top ranked business program, fantastic poli-sci classes with instructors like Larry Sabato, etc.) I would suggest going where you think you’ll be happiest. Our daughter will live on the lawn next year and is already sad that her final year will be coming to an end. Good luck on whatever decision you make!</p>