<p>I've been having a lot of trouble deciding where to go for college...I was so certain that Princeton was the place for me. It's been my childhood dream, something I always thought I wanted. When I visited Princeton, I was in awe...I could definitely see myself as a student there.
But after visiting UVa yesterday and today, I fell in love with the campus and student life. UVa students I spoke with said UVa and Princeton both have strong academics (I got into Echols for UVa), but UVa has a more vibrant, active student life (as opposed to the "superficial" friendly atmosphere at P'ton). They told me that students strongly uphold honor in every aspect of the word and that the alumni networking is very strong. They also said that it is very easy to get involved with research opportunities and EC's.</p>
<p>The main problem is that everyone at Princeton told me the exact same things. Princeton students/faculty told me about the great networking, undergrad focus, research opportunities, great student atmosphere, etc. So I am really confused!!! I have yet to stay overnight at Princeton (for Preview), so I'm hoping that might clear some things up.</p>
<p>I don't want to pick Princeton over UVa because of its name, but it has also been my dream...it has my vote for sentimentality. I would really appreciate any help.</p>
<p>(Oh, and I want to do a pre-med track so UVa's hospital and medical school are the main factors that are drawing me to it. I'd rather stay in one play for undergrad/med school. But I don't really care for the social scene too much ie. streaking, Greek life (which is something Princeton doesn't have)).</p>
<p>I am going to “post and run” because I want you to have space to discuss this with your peers. We met yesterday, so I just want to chime in about the social comments at the end.</p>
<p>I’m going to borrow a strategy from the Social Norms Institute. Looking at what students don’t do sometimes tells the story more than the other way around. So, instead of thinking about how 30% of students participate in Greek life (and Greek covers traditional, academic, service, and historically black orgs), remember that 70% of the students aren’t Greek. You can decide how prominent a role that part of the community plays in your experience. Many schools have student groups that have the feel of fraternities and sororities, even my two alma maters, which don’t have Greek life. </p>
<p>People talk about streaking for shock value.</p>
<p>Okay, I’m stepping away. You know how to find me if you need me. As I told you yesterday, you can’t make a bad decision. At some point in the next month, the right path will emerge. :)</p>
<p>“UVa and Princeton both have strong academics” - quite true, but Princeton’s are stronger. I think we can benefit from a better explanation. You got into one of the most selective schools in the country and are considering turning it down. </p>
<p>The only clear reason you’ve presented is that you’d like to stay in one place for college / med school. I submit that your decision may change several times over the next few years. Personally, I would not put that high in the list of issues when comparing the two schools.</p>