<p>Hello! I know this is a strange comparison, but I was wondering which of these two schools people thought would be better for me. I was thinking about doing ED II to Vanderbilt, or maybe just do regular and see what happens. Vandy is a bit of a reach though, so I might be more comfortable doing ED II if it helps me get in.</p>
<p>The reason why these two schools are my favorites is because they have very strong music programs that aren't SO strong that it's impossible to double major (I would like to double major with a science - probably biology, maybe marine biology if I go to UM, or ecology). I am a strong singer (All-State Choirs and All Eastern Choir) and also play French horn, Bari sax, and Clarinet. </p>
<p>I also love the sizes and locations of the schools (in/near cities), and how they both have gorgeous campuses. </p>
<p>I've always liked the south (we used to live there, now I'm in MA), but I am a little worried about the huge "party" reputation and HUGE Greek presence at Vandy. I know that some of the stuff I hear about the population may be stereotypes, and I can't base everyone there off of them, but since I cannot visit until my audition in January I've been pretty dependent on other students' reviews of the school's student life/population. I don't mind parties or frats/sororities, but I don't really drink. </p>
<p>Since both schools carry roughly the same price tag, my parents felt as though I should go to the one that had a stronger academic reputation- which I think would be Vandy. </p>
<p>I have a friend who’s going to UMiami (drama major? idk, she applied everywhere as a prospective drama major) and as far as I’ve been able to tell, the party school reputation is definitely justified; I don’t think she’s getting much studying done there. College is what you make of it, though, and the campus/location is gorgeous.</p>
<p>I’d choose Vanderbilt, however, purely because of its stronger academics and tamer reputation.</p>
<p>Thank you! I heard from other posters that Vandy was known to care a lot about appearances, which I don’t mind, but if I wear sweatpants to an 8am class I don’t want to be shunned or anything. Do people actually care that much? If they don’t, that’d be a huge relief and I’d feel a lot better about doing ED II!</p>
<p>I would close Vandy and you will be fine in sweatpants! You should realize, though, that double majoring with music and a science is extremely difficult anywhere due to conflicting lab and ensemble requirements.</p>
<p>I know there is a lot of superficiality at Vanderbilt, but it only affects you if you let it too. How people dress shouldn’t play a factor in the admission process.</p>
<p>If you’re not a big partier, than forget Miami. I have a friend who goes there, her FB pictures are all her partying on the rooftop of some South Beach highrise.</p>