<p>Trying to decide between Wash U and Echols Scholar program at UVA. I plan to major in history or English lit., probably going on to law school. How strong are these departments at Wash U? Any current students have thoughts? I have visited both schools and like the feel of each.</p>
<p>Echols Scholar to the best of my knowledge does not carry any financial benefits but creates research/leadership opportunities for selected group of people (which is beneficial in a relatively large school like UVA). </p>
<p>WustL for any student will provide similar opportunities due to its smaller size and undergraduate focus.</p>
<p>If money is not an issue I would go for fit - WashU has nicer, compact, better maintained campus,doems, food, somewhat stronger academically and significantly more liberal and less preppy students.</p>
<p>In terms of opportunities after school - it is a tie.</p>