<p>Re the SAT scores, I think we could spend a lot of unproductive time and effort arguing whether to include this or that group. The reality is that the difference in SAT scores, no matter how you measure it, is modest (and this would include Cornell). </p>
<p>Driven in part by a much greater commitment to attracting a more diverse and national student body (although there is more to do here to insure that this is not a flash iin the pan, particularly for Vanderbilt), these schools are seeing their national profiles rise. Emory and Vanderbilt have been great beneficiaries of the demographic swell and their average student is much improved over the past decade. Both schools offer a terrific undergraduate experience and the educational and student quality is on the upswing as these schools increasingly compete for top students with the lower Ivies and other top privates. </p>
<p>Re the question about environment, there are students posting on here and you might want to reread their comments. </p>
<p>college2332's post #3 about Vanderbilt,</p>
<p>" Despite stereotypes of the school, the students here are some of the most down-to-earth people I have ever met. The vast majority of the students are really friendly – people hold doors and were just simply raised properly. People would rather be your friend than beat you on a test. Vanderbilt is probably the furthest you can get from a cut throat atmosphere. Community Service is also huge here (esp. with Alternative Spring Break Programs). There also tons of clubs, publications, radio station, etc." </p>
<p>and jkh411 #34 has this about Emory,</p>
<p>" Only the business school grades according to percentiles, the college absolutely does not promote competition; i.e if you get good grades you get good grades. The only possible scaling done at Emory College involves everyone in the class getting a higher grade if the average is considered low for a particular test or semester. As for social life…, both schools provide means, usually through the frat system, to meet and party with people. One you secure a group of friends and merely want to do your own thing, Atlanta offers a pretty spectacular scene."</p>
<p>Maybe these two posters and others will return and provide further insight into their respective schools and the environment for an undergraduate student. </p>
<p>My personal view is that you will find a high degree of satisfaction among current students and both environments will provide a positive experience. But, again, I think you will also find different personalities at each school and you can best appreciate this with a visit to the campuses (preferably during the school year) and the cities.</p>