<p>I am not saying that Wisconsin might not have the edge in terms of "academic prestige". I just don't see the need to slam entire regions of the country and stereotype students who attend SEC schools. We get that you are good at showing us statistics. There are quality of life considerations, too. Both schools are wonderful and Madison is a fun place, but UGA has a lot of positives, too.</p>
<p>Plainsman, so sorry about your experience with rural Wisconsin. Awful, and sad, on a variety of levels. It is true that there is not much diversity there in the rural areas. I work with many of those rural Wisconsin folk who come to the big city for medical care. Good, unassuming people, for the most part. As we have a multi ethnic team, we're on the watch for racism, and I can think of only a very rare example. </p>
<p>I moved to Wisconsin from Phoenix 25 years ago, and have survived just fine. Though the last 2 winters have given me pause, as they are a little long. As a friend here says, there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. So dress appropriately, and you'll perhaps even learn to love the beauty of winter.</p>
<p>Just wanted to provide an update to this thread. Decision became a little tougher after he was accepted to Wake Forest. Still, after much consideration, son has chosen U of Wisconsin-Madison. Thanks for all the valuable input! There is certainly no one perfect place, and he really believes he would have been happy and successful at any of these three fine schools (really pleased to have had such great choices).</p>
<p>travelfun,</p>
<p>Congrats to your son. I think that he will love it here in Madison. I have degrees from the University of Illinois and Northwestern and spent 10 years in Silicon Valley and have never seen anything approaching the love that alums have for UW-Madison.</p>
<p>Kevin</p>