Why I should go to UNC instead of UVa

<p>I know it is a little early to say that I got into these two schools for sure, but I got likely letters to both, so hopefully that means that I am in, but I wanted to know if I should go to UNC-Chapel Hill or UVa. I know that this is the Virginia board so I am going to post the same message in the UNC board.</p>

<p>Reasons to go to UVa: Access UVa (I thought it was an amazing program but is it only for poor students, I am not rich, maybe I am poor compared to many of the UVa students, but my understanding was that Access UVa was for everyone but it is best for poor students) I am not sure if that made sense, maybe someone can clarify for me. Also UVa is supposed to provide a better education than UNC. Virginia is supposed to be beautiful (so is UNC though).</p>

<p>Reasons to go to UNC: Chapel Hill is better than Charlottesville. Virginia is supposed to be dominated by fraternaties (I don't think that I would like that). Accepts lower scores on AP tests! Virginia wants fives for both Econs! that is crazy! Please add to this list. I am swinging more to UNC because of the whole frat thing at UVa. I think I wouldn't really like UVa people. Especially since such a huge percentage of students come from 100+K homes. I know I am generalizing, but I feel like the students would be very homogenous. Way too much abercrombie and $150 faded jeans. I hear that UVa is very conservative also, but I know that there are also a good share of liberals as well.</p>

<p>from what you said, definitely choose UNC. but if you live in virginia, go to UVa.</p>

<p>I agree with Charmedone...if you're in VA, stay with UVA; if not, UNC. And you've already said it in so many ways, but here it is again.... UVA exceeds UNC in only one aspect: partying/drinking...(my 2 cents).</p>

<p>UNC is also typically a bit more generous with finaid than other state universities (I believe it meets 100% of demonstrated need, but I could be wrong).</p>

<p>By the way, I am from Arizona.</p>

<p>As a resident of VA (sort of) and a UNC grad I'd say go to the school that gives you the best deal financially. The difference in overall quality between the two schools is so small as to be meaningless.</p>

<p>choosing a school just on $ is a bad idea, too.</p>

<p>Try visiting both schools once you get in and try to get a feel for how well you would fit in at both places. I did UNC's Explore Carolina program last year and absolutely fell in love with the atmosphere on campus, especially with the friendliness and happiness of its students, and I am now a freshman here in Chapel Hill. I have heard that UVA is somewhat centered around Greek life, and Chapel Hill certainly is not (although many students choose to get involved in frats/sororities -- 17% officially, I don't feel any pressure to do so and I have many friends who don't feel comfortable in that scene and have many other social opportunities). But I have never been to UVa so I can't really offer my help in comparing the two. My best advice is to visit both and find out for yourself where you fit in best -- this is often more important to consider than any US news rankings or College Confidential posts you could possibly consider. Best of luck in your decision, and I hope to see you in Chapel Hill!</p>

<p>Yeayea123, both schools are equally good, so that's why it makes sense to compare costs. And for many students it does come down to that.</p>