<p>Hello everybody. I've narrowed my decision down to UVA or W&M, and I need help. I just visited both campuses again this past week and it only made me more confused. I was wondering if anyone (preferably current or former students) could elaborate on the English/business departments for both schools? I know UVA traditionally does better in the rankings, but for obvious reasons I don't want to base my decision on those alone.</p>
<p>For what it's worth, I would be an Echols scholar at UVA and a Monroe scholar at W&M.</p>
<p>Well, since your scholar distinctions are on equal grounds…</p>
<p>Business is probably better at UVA.</p>
<p>English is probably better at W&M.</p>
<p>In other words, you’re kinda in an even split here.</p>
<p>The English department at W&M is one of the largest departments in the college. There’s a lot of different paths to trek in it, starting with an honors option and going into many concentrations or a teacher certification.</p>
<p>I can’t say I know too much about UVA, but I’m pretty sure “business is booming” there more so than at W&M. </p>
<p>Um…I’m probably not helping.</p>
<p>Is there anything you like more about either college? At all?</p>
<p>Price? Location? Dorms? Size?</p>
<p>There must be something that tips one over the other.</p>
<p>Price is going to end up being about the same at both colleges. I prefer UVa’s location, but W&M’s size (I like small classes, and I was really impressed by the accessibility of professors during my visit). I like UVa’s suite-style dorms for Echols, but I also like the central location of the Monroe dorm.</p>
<p>For some in your dilemma, it can come down to where they want to do their post-graduate work. For example, if you think you might want to attend W&M Law, then take UVA - if you think you might want to attend Darden for an MBA, then take W&M for undergrad. </p>
<p>Point being, rather than spend 6+ years at one school, plan to split the time. This can work out well for a highly qualified (which obviously, you are) in-state applicant. Of course, things change, but maybe this can provide a few grains of sand to tip the scales one way or another.</p>
<p>I’m not sure “sports” is as much of a division anymore, given recent results… ;)</p>
<p>Anyway, I know you have a difficult decision, but it’s a nice problem to have. From a purely educational point of view, you can’t really lose - both will provide you an education worthy of top-tier schools. Whatever you choose will be a great choice.</p>
<p>I agree. UVA seems better for business and W&M for English. Since you are so split down the middle, why not choose based upon other factors such as fit/vibe, location. Etc? Have you gone to facebook to each admitted class to get a feel for fellow classmates. Although this is stereotyping, (there is usually truth in stereotypes) what I noticed visiting their was that UVA was larger, more southern-preppy vibe and W&M a little more intellectual, small, quieter and closer knit. I think they each have entirely different campuses and vibes to them, so if the academics are a dead heat, these other factors will tip the scale for you.</p>
<p>A double major is definitely feasible if you want to do English and Business. Good luck with your college decision, I know W&M vs. UVA is a hard choice.</p>
<p>Double majors are a definite go-for at W&M. During the admitted students day opening, I was surprised at how many of the student presenters introduced themselves as double majors.</p>
<p>smallrain, I think if you “feel” better at one of the schools, you should go there. The difference in academics between UVA and W&M (aside from big school v. small school) is not significant.</p>
<p>You could definitely double major in business and English at W&M if that is what you wanted.</p>
<p>I think my favorite thing about W&M is the size (well, one of my favorite things). I just feel like I would be able to make a greater impact there than at UVa. But I guess my parents are a little concerned because they think my job prospects will be better if I go to UVa, which is slightly (?) better-known, more prestigious. And it would be hard to turn down Echols (no distribution requirements)…</p>
<p>The analysis here is pretty simple. Both schools have outstanding English programs, but U-Va clearly has the superior undergraduate business school. It’s not even all that close. But it’s also a lot harder to get into U-Va’s business school than William and Mary’s. You apply to both schools after sophomore year (typically); William and Mary takes about 3/4 of its applicants while U-Va barely takes half. Attending U-Va as an Echols probably increases your chances, but of course there are no guarantees.</p>
<p>If you’re pretty sure you’re interested in business and confident that you can do well in college, then I’d go to U-Va. Hands down.</p>
<p>Go where you will be happy. Both are good schools. W&M actually is more prestigious, esp if you move out of Virginia. Your job prospects will be based on you and your record. Best of luck.</p>
<p>You’re in the same boat as a lot of other students deciding between two great schools.</p>
<p>What’s great about W&M is you can double major in business and English and that as a business student, you aren’t confined to just business classes. Additionally, Miller Hall (the home of the Mason School of Business) is a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that will help W&M’s already great business program become even stronger and more highly recognized.</p>
<p>W&M and UVA are likely equally well known among employers and graduate schools. In fact, even with the fledgling economy, most W&M business students have found gainful employment already this year. The size of W&M is definitely what makes it unique and the Monroe Scholarship could allow you to do some interesting research combining your two academic interests.</p>
<p>Well, I chose W&M over UVa for English . . . 31 years ago! I much preferred the size, just feeling like I would feel more a part of the community. Oh, and it was the campus that just "wow"ed me when I visited. I loved it. Met my wife there, my sister followed me to W&M, she met her husband there, and my son is there now (graduates in less than 3 weeks). My three closest friends all went to UVa and were all happy as well. One stayed there and works for the University, one seems to have little connection to the university at all, and the third still keeps in touch with UVa friends but not much connection to the university (and married a W&M grad and is urging his own son toward W&M over UVa).</p>
<p>I don’t see the fine line distinction between the academics as really that important - they are both great, both well above the red line. The size of the college community and your ability to fit in is a significant difference, though, and it sounds as though you are much more comfortable with that of W&M. Both of my children clearly preferred schools in the 4,000 - 8,000 student range, and chose accordingly (son - W&M, daughter - Bucknell).</p>
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