<p>Hello,</p>
<p>Just registered here-- what a great way to connect and get information! My niece was just admitted to several great schools. She is from LA but interested in going away from home and wants a big college experience with greek system, sports, strong academics, and school spirit. She is strongly considering Madison and Austin and I wondered whether anyone had thoughts/suggestions for which might be a better match for her. She hasn't been in cold climates before, so I do worry about the weather at Madison. </p>
<p>Can anyone offer a comparison of the pros and cons of each? She is getting ready to go and visit them, so also any suggestions for how to make those visits the most instructive would be helpful. </p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Julie</p>
<p>Julie, academically, both are excellent, with Wisconsin having a slight edge in the traditional disciplines (Humanities, Sciences and Social Sciences) and Texas having a slight edge in the professional programs (Business and Engineering). But honestly, you cannot go wrong with either school as both are excellent across all academic disciplines.</p>
<p>I would not worry too much about the weather. I grew up in a very hot climate and adjusted fine to Michigan winters.</p>
<p>Madison and Austin are two of the greatest college towns anywhere. Austin is larger while Madison is quainter, but both are awesome.</p>
<p>Honestly, your niece should visit the two schools before making her final decision.</p>
<p>Biggest advantage for UW would be the larger group of out of staters so she would not feel so in the minority.</p>
<p>When to UT-Austin, lived in Madison.</p>
<p>Both schools are very similar as far as academics and college life.</p>
<p>I think the only thing that differentiate the two schools is the climate. I didn’t like snow and ice most of the academic year.</p>
<p>so I would have to vote for UT - Austin.</p>
<p>I dislike Texas. Wisky</p>
<p>I’d take a nice overcoat and some snow versus that nasty humid Texas heat any day of the week. ;-)</p>
<p>Personally, this would come down to academics and Wisconsin has the slight edge as Alexandre pointed out. Both are great choices and fun cities though.</p>
<p>Julie…</p>
<p>Is your niece a junior?</p>
<p>What are her stats?</p>
<p>What is her likely major?</p>
<p>Is money a concern? those OOS publics aren’t likely going to give need-based aid to an OOS student.</p>