<p>Hi, I was recently accepted into the University of Florida, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Michigan. My first choice is UM, but if they don't give me enough money, its going to be between Pitt and UF. </p>
<p>My question is which school is better? I plan to major in Biology or Biochemistry while taking the pre-med track. I visited both schools, and liked both campuses. The money is going to be about equal, as I only need to pay about ~6k a year at Pitt, and although I didn't receive my financial aid stuff from Florida yet, I received the 20k a year GatorNation scholarship, so I can only assume it will also be at or less than ~6k a year. (I have an EFC of 0). I also got into the honors college at both.</p>
<p>So short version, money aside, Pitt or UF (Honors College) for pre-med/biology?</p>
<p>Both colleges are very good for pre-med/Biology. I believe that Pitt is better for neuroscience if that’s the track you are thinking about. Basically, academically both colleges are great – though UF is a bit overcrowded because Florida keeps growing in population, so getting the classes you want might be a bit challenging at times. </p>
<p>As far as location goes – they are very different schools – so you need to decide what is important to you. Pitt is an urban college in a cool part of Pittsburgh (Oakland) and has other colleges nearby (Carnegie Mellon, Duquesne, etc). It has so many hospitals nearby, so clinical work will be easy to get to. Pittsburgh itself is a great city (not known by most - but I have family there and visit quite often – there’s always something going on). The college sports are pretty good – but the Pro-teams are great!
The weather is not so nice – gray most of winter. Skiing is not far from Pittsburgh and at Pitt - free bus passes with student ID so can explore the whole city without needing a car. UF has mostly sunny weather (extremely hot in summer), but winters are paradise. The school is obviously known for its sports - every team is one of the best in the SEC. Though the location has much to be desired! Gainesville is ugly and lacking! Right smack in the middle of Florida with absolutely no culture. Most of your life will revolve around campus and local bars. Need a car to explore and get to airport (assuming your out of state).</p>
<p>Hope this helps</p>
<p>So – all things being equal with academics and money – it’s really preference on your college experience.</p>