<p>hey all,
lets consider for a second that one is in the terrible position of having to choose NU and UVA (not such a terrible position actually). BTW I'm only a junior so this is more curiosity then having to make an actual decision.
I'm into the sciences and would like a sort of "hardcore" academic experience i.e. all nighters at the library and working on research with a professor from an early year. Here I believe NU has the edge as UVA's strengths lie in their humanities programs.</p>
<p>Next, I want a great social scene. I'm not too concerned about plays or restaurants, but I would like a sizable Greek system. Both schools do have this but UVa is known for having a "better" system.</p>
<p>So if there are any factors that I am missing (obviously a bunch but these are my two main concerns) please enlighten me.</p>
<p>Muchos Gracias </p>
<p>p.s. I visited UVa and am absolutely in love....</p>
<p>Wait, have you been accepted to these schools? As a junior, you shouldn’t have you options narrowed down to two choices. It is good to get an idea and visit during your junior year, but not much more. Both of these options could end up being financially impossible, or you may get rejected from one of the two. I wouldn’t want you to have your heart set on one for an entire year and then get rejected. NU is accepting 18% (I believe it was less this year) and UVA isn’t a safety school for anyone, and it is as tough as Ivies in terms of OOS admission. Right now just explore options, perform well academically, and apply everywhere you wish when the time comes.</p>
<p>Anyway, about 30% of UVA’s student body is involved in the Greek system. It has a presence but not one so large that it will affect you if you aren’t interested. UVA also has strong programs in pretty much every field (almost any major you choose is going to be ranked in the top 50), though many of NU’s programs are ranked a little higher (as is NU as a whole.) UVA is a complete bargain in-state though, so if you live in Virginia, it is almost always your best option. OOS is another story.</p>
<p>Each is fantastic, with strong academics in the sciences and vibrant social scenes, but they are very different from each other. UVa is slightly larger, but NU is more urban, definitely northern (and colder), with a somewhat less preppy vibe (though there are plenty of preppy kids there).</p>
<p>NU offers some decidedly broader fields of study, should you change your mind on the sciences.</p>
<p>I have not at all narrowed it down to just these two! I’m just trying to get a general vibe about the two cause they are my top two… I’ve visited UVa but my parents don’t wanna go out to NU until my mom’s 25th reunion which is next fall.</p>