Vanderbilt vs. Northwestern

<p>I know the usual suggestion for these threads is to search the archives, but I could only find posts by engineering prospects and that's not what I'm doing. I will visit both schools within the next few weeks for accepted student days, but I wanted to get some opinions beforehand. I will be choosing between the two, assuming a miracle does not happen from Princeton. Anyway, I'm interested in psychology and maybe pre-med, although if I get there and health stuff isn't really turning my wheels my second choice would be business. I've been accepted to the college of arts & sciences at both schools. I grew up outside of Boston and while a weather change would be nice, it's not a truly deciding factor. I'm upper middle class, so I might be bothered by being surrounded by super wealthy people with money to blow (I've heard rumors Vandy is like this, but hasn't it changed?). I'm really social and will probably go Greek but am not looking for more high school drama. I'm looking for advice on the quality of programs for my interests, the prestige factor (likely in applying for grad school), level of academic difficulty, going Greek, and scheduling (mostly input on the quarter system at NU since I hate exams in high school). Money for tuition, R & B, etc. isn't really a factor. Any input would be so helpful, thanks!</p>

<p>I’m in the same boat as you slpxx. Vandy and NU are both great schools. The financial aid will most likely be the deciding factor for me, as well as the Ivy league decisions on thursday…</p>

<p>I’m a current student at vanderbilt doing psychology and pre-med, and I must say the program is difficult but incredible. If you are even kind of considering pre-med, we have an amazing medical facility right on campus which is great for internships, research, shadowing, job connections, etc. I’m definitely middle class, but the money thing is not blatant in the sense that people don’t brag about it or anything. I get by just fine, and you don’t occur too many unexpected expenses. Greek life is AWESOME but whether or not you choose to join, you will have an awesome 4 years if you go here. This university is known for being the best balance of academic intensity and social opportunity with beautiful weather and campus. If you have any other specific questions I would love to answer them :)</p>

<p>Vanderbilt vs. Northwestern… You can’t really go wrong with either.</p>