I got into Maryland, Penn State, Illinois, and Wisconsin (all on their major campus). I have not decided whether I want to stay on the East Coast or not (I’m from NY). Is there much of a difference in the schools academically? Or can I not go wrong? Opinions?
You can’t really go wrong. They’re all great universities.
Both Illinois and Wisconsin are highly ranked flagships. Wisconsin has a more appealing urban environment.
These schools you mention are all roughly equal in terms of prestige and general high regardedness. Your decision should be based on the location (where you want to be for the next four years and where you may be interested in living upon graduation), strength of the program/major you are interested in/direct admitted for, cost/affordability and good fit/feel you have upon visiting the campus.
Of the four schools, Maryland has designated psychology as a limited enrollment program.
http://www.umd.edu/catalog/index.cfm/show/content.section/c/1/s/139#Admission%20to%20the%20Major
Are all of the schools affordable?
Madison is a great place and overall better than DC. The access to things and the integration of Wisco into the city is wonderful.
There are lakes on both side of the city.
You indicated in another thread, your interest in Criminology. I believe Wisconsin offers a certificate in Criminology with a Bachelors in Sociology, however, Criminology is not offered as a Major. They’re all good schools and it will depend on what you can afford, location desirability, vibe of campus/student body and your academic interests.
Unless it’s significantly cheaper than the others, I’d drop Illinois…fine academics, but the town and what’s around it can’t compare to the other three. Yeah, PSU is isolated, but at least it’s got that cohesive, Happy Valley vibe.
@moooop I agree! that’s precisely the reason i’ve also decided to drop UIUC.
How much does each college cost and what’s your budget?
Frankly, you can’t go wrong. 