University of Iowa vs University of Minnesota

Hi guys I was wondering if anyone could help me out. I’m deciding between the U of MN and U of I and can’t seem to make a decision. I’m from Iowa and like the idea of getting away. However, when I visited Iowa it seemed a little more homey. I want to be able to have lots of things to do in college and Minnesota seems to have more opportunities for that being in the city. The cost is not an issue. I got a 32 on my ACT and have 4.0 GPA but have not done anything else that stands out so I do not think I would make it in the honors program at MN. I got accepted to the honors program at Iowa. I plan on studying either biomedical engineering or something in the business field. Also very indecisive on that… But does Iowa or Minnesota either have better programs than the other for those two? Also would either give me better/more opportunities and internships? Any information or thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

It is very difficult to get into the honors program at UMN so it’s good you are being realistic about it. It seems there are better medical resources near UMN and Carlson Business School is also very good. Additionally there is a lot of economic growth in Minneapolis so I think internship opportunities would be more plentiful there. Although we are from the midwest, we did not have the University of Iowa on our list though we did visit Iowa State and liked it quite a bit. My S did end up choosing UMN and he is enjoying being in an urban setting and is liking the school a lot. He is serious about his academics and has found his classes to be challenging enough and the professors responsive. He is double majoring in Economics and Computer Science. While there is partying at every university, there will be less of that at UMN relatively speaking. For us it was cheaper than our state flagship so cost was not even an issue but it’s a nice plus. He is in the LLC for OOS and says his entire floor is friendly - it’s been a great experience so far.

Have you been admitted at UMN? It really is OK to apply there and then see whether you are admitted, if the financial aid makes it possible, and whether or not you do prefer it to U of IA before the reply deadline in May.

If you just want out of Iowa, your GPA and ACT score would get you serious merit money at a number of other places. Take look here: http://automaticfulltuition.yolasite.com/

I’m having the same struggle! Just for safety schools though- my mom is moving to Minnesota so I could get instate, but my dad will still live in the QC area.

Iowa City is one of the best college towns in the US…I’d go there.