<p>I really don't want to start another nasty debate, but I'm so torn between the two schools. I'm considering a biology (possibly biochem) major (perhaps medical school in the future). So which school has a better program? Thanks.</p>
<p>Tbone</p>
<p>Makes absolutely no difference. Go to the school you like more because you just can;t choose on this metric.</p>
<p>they're both fabulous. personally, i can't see passing up all the internship possibilities in a place like nyc (im looking at business, but I would assume ny has great opportunities in biology as well). I can't comment on penn because frankly, I know very little about it or philadelphia...</p>
<p>Penn is slightly better for Pre-med: 1) apparently better in premed advising per other posters in this site, 2) more research opportunities given the university's overall push for undergrads to do advanced research and 3) the biggest health sciences complex in the Ivies (#3 med school, #3 nursing school, top 5 dental school, #4 vet school, #6 bioengineering program). Columbia is slightly better in the biological sciences across a range of fields (genetics, biochem, etc). Either way, you should choose based on the place you feel more comfortable and you think you may be more challenged intellectually.</p>
<p>Columbia's med school is one of the best in the world, and there are a ton of research opportunities there for undergraduates.</p>
<p>From what I've heard, Columbia's also pushing hard for undergraduate research.</p>
<p>Talk to current students about advising. From what I've heard, Penn's advising is some of the best in the country, and some students at Columbia aren't as happy with their advising. However, I havn't experienced premed advising at either institution and can only tell you what I've heard, so try to talk to current premeds at both colleges. Aside from that one thing, in terms of research, grades, etc, it's more up to you and what you do than what either college offers because both offer so much are are great places to be as an undergrad. The one you like more will help you be more successful in the long run.</p>
<p>The question is, would you like an internship in NYC?</p>
<p>Visit both colleges and see what you feel is the best fit. Both schools are great, and I honestly feel that there will be no real difference academically. It's just what you feel is best. Read into the student lifestyle, career opportunities, weather, city, etc.</p>