Hi everyone, I’m a senior in high school and I was accepted to both Emory and Wash U. I’m aware that these two schools are very similar, so I need help figuring out which one is the best for me.
In terms of major, I’m undecided, but I have an interest in science. Possibly business? A broad education would be very helpful. I’ve heard that Emory is more geared towards pre-professional and Wash U is very flexible with majoring across schools. A comparison of the STEM and business programs and academic environment at the two schools would be helpful.
For social life, I want a balance between studying and partying. I’m not too nerdy, but I take schoolwork seriously, don’t go too crazy at parties, but I like to let loose once in a while. I’m not one to get bored easily, but I still want lots of options of things to do. Also I don’t know anything about life in the Midwest and South (I’m from the Northeast). Comparison on student vibe, social life, and surrounding city too please.
Won’t be a huge deciding factor, but is there a difference between the two in terms of prestige?
Thanks so much!! (also posted in Emory thread)
Also can you please add Vanderbilt into the comparison?
The items you’ve described as priorities for you align with Vanderbilt in my mind. Social life checks out, we have science out the wazoo, as well was strong econ and a business minor coming down the pipeline starting next year, and should you change your mind and want to explore several things at the very highest academic level, we have that in bounds and it’s easy to access. So that’s my plug. Of course, you can’t go wrong, and cost should be a consideration between these three, but as I read your first post, I thought to myself, “Sounds like a good fit for Vandy,” at which point I saw you ask to add it to the comparison. So those would be my thoughts.
The schools are similar but there are differences:
- Cities: St. Louis vs. Nashville vs. Atlanta
- Vanderbilt is an SEC school with D1 sports. While it isn't Alabama or OSU, there's plenty of school spirit. Sports at Emory and WashU are not a priority, from what I can tell.
- Vandy has the rep of having more Greek activity than the other two. I think that's fine, but not everyone does.
You can dig deeper and find more differences, but broadly these schools seem fairly similar.