USD v. Villanova v. SMU v. TCU

<p>I have been accepted to all of the four above. I am majoring in business and would like some feedback as to where you would recommend going. I have visited them all except Villanova. As far as opptunities after graduation and student life are concerned, where would you go? Thanks in advance.</p>

<p>If money were no object, I would think Villanova is clearly the most well regarded academically. If money is a concern, then the most recent research indicates that the smart option may be to select whichever is the cheapest option.</p>

<p>I agree that Villanova is probably more prestigious academically but as far as student life goes, how would you compare the four.</p>

<p>Does anyone have any ideas about student life at these four places?</p>

<p>I would have to disagree…SMU and Villanova are about equal in terms of an undergraduate education. Further, the advantages of being in an economic hub such as Dallas as well as the prestigious Cox School of Business put it in front of Villa for business majors. SMU is certainly a rising star in academia. In the USnews rankings last year it jumped 12 spots. It is expected to surpass schools such as Tulane and Pepperdine in the ranking this year. The money being poured into the school has resulted in a surge in construction. That, in addition to the growth of Dallas (fastest growing city in the country) and the building of the Bush library on campus, makes SMU a very attractive choice for applicants. Also, SMU football is having a rebirth. Applications to SMU this year have increased by 75% making admission all the more difficult. In regard to social life…it’s a no brainer that SMU and USD are the best of the above bunch. Villanova is nicknamed VillaNoFun if that serves as any indication of how your time there would be.</p>

<p>D is deciding between USD and TCU also. Her other 2 choices are Miami Ohio and Santa Clara.
I hear amazing things about TCU, as far as academics AND social. Football team, active alumni who make sure students have an amazing experience.
Climate-wise, I would choose USD. I sense it’s a mellower campus, but l don’t really have a feel for it socially.<br>
Looking at the latest Bloomberg Undergraduate Rankings, they’re all pretty close.</p>

<p>I’ve been told that Texans are proud of their state and love to hire TCU and SMU grads.</p>