Undergrad: Stanford or Rice?

<p>Admitted to Rice without financial aid. Stanford decision pending, but likely no financial aid there as well. So, assuming that both schools have the same tuition, let's move on. I am very familiar with the Houston area but have no knowledge of California or Stanford, really. I know two things--California is amazing, and Stanford is amazing. </p>

<p>So, the dilemma. If you were in a situation where you could choose Rice or Stanford for equal cost, which would you choose? Why? Should Stanford be the school where if you get in, you should go as to not pass up an opportunity at one of the country's elite? </p>

<p>I've read old threads, but any new input, biased or unbiased, on Stanford vs. Rice would be great. Things to consider: reputation, med school after undergrad, campus life, city, experiences, what you've heard...etc. Thanks! </p>

<p>Stanford is probably more well known both nationally and internationally. Size wise both are about the same and you are probably going to get a similar education in both. You should check medical school acceptance between the 2 schools</p>

<p>I do not know much about houston as i have only spent 1 night there in the last 25 years. However have lived that entire period 20 minutes from Stanford. Weather, diversity and access to jobs are probably the biggest pros of CA. However, if you are going to be a doctor - then access to jobs is not very relevant. Palo Alto / Bay Area is very liberal compared to Texas. The important aspect one has to consider before moving to the bay area is the quality of life - yes - you have quick access to everything (cities, outdoor activities, beaches, ski, cultural events, sporting events etc) BUT the cost of living in the area is prohibitive. Be prepared to live in minute “multi million $ homes”. An 1800 sqft fixer upper usually sells for over 2 million in PA.</p>

<p>Good luck.</p>

<p>90% of students at Rice who apply for med school get accepted. Rice is also directly across the street from the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical center in the entire world. Plus, the Rice/Baylor research collaboration and opportunities available due to close relationship between Rice and the Baylor school of medicine make it a great option in pursuing a medical career. Stanford has its own medical school and is one of the best universities in the world. However, I wouldn’t choose a school based solely off its reputation. I’m not sure about medical school stats at Stanford, but I’ve taken classes there and it’s a beautiful school with a lot of really smart people. You will get a first rate education at either school. Your acceptance to medical school will depend 100 times more on the amount of work you put into college, your GPA and MCAT scores. I’ve even heard that it’s easier to get into medical school if you attend a public school because your grades will most likely be better. You should choose the one that you feel most comfortable at, because in reality, it’s not going to make a huge difference.</p>

<p>I would say Rice if you are going for medical, unless $$ meant nothing & you could afford to fork out for Stanford. Both schools are great so it’s not even about that, it would boil down to the other factors such as finances, travel, housing etc. </p>

<p>It would be foolish to pass up Stanford for Rice. If you change your mind about medicine, job opportunities from Stanford>>>>job opportunities from Rice.</p>

<p>Stanny all the way</p>

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