Villanova vs. Geneseo

<p>My son needs to decide between Villanova and Geneseo. We have one week. He hopes to study Biochemistry with the possibility of dental school down the road. Any input about either school would be of great value. Academics, reputation, social life...post graduate successes. Thanks.</p>

<p>Villanova is certainly the better known school (possibly because of athletics) and to the extent you give credence to the USNWR rankings, is higher Ranked. (#1 Regional University North vs #8 for Geneseo)</p>

<p>However, Geneseo has been a hot (up and coming) school in SUNY System. Villanova is right outside Philadelphia, while Geneseo is in Geneseo (which makes it a rural school). It’s fairly certain that most of your social life at Geneseo will be campus based. Villanove is a Catholic School, while Geneseo is a state school.</p>

<p>You don’t say whether you’re a NY resident – if so, the in-state tuition at Geneseo will be considerably lower than the tuition at Villanova (disregarding any scolarships that may be available to your son).</p>

<p>I’m certain dentistry is an option open to students of both schools who do well.</p>

<p>My read --</p>

<ol>
<li><p>Finances – If Geneseo is a lot less expensive, I’d consider saving money for Dental School tuition.</p></li>
<li><p>Location – does your son have a strong preference for one school over the other.</p></li>
<li><p>Academics – I probably give the nod to Villanova, but not by enough to overcome my first two points if applicable.</p></li>
</ol>