<p>I'm a senior in high school from North Carolina, and I'm trying to decide where to commit. I've gotten into Washington University in St. Louis, Duke, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University, and am still waiting on Stanford, Hopkins, Penn, and Harvard. </p>
<p>I'm really focused on going into Biomedical Engineering, and am trying to decide whether WashU is good for that or not. I didn't really think about WashU that much when I applied...I'd heard that it had a good science program, but wasn't seriously considering it. Now that I got in, I'm becoming more interested. Does anyone have any info about their Biomedical Engineering program? I know Duke is really high in that field (#2 I think it was). Which one would be better for Biomed? They both cost the same, so this is assuming I can pay for either one.</p>
<p>Rankings don't mean all that much to me...the whole undergraduate experience (undergraduate research opportunities, life, etc.) are going to be a big factor as well, so comments on that would be appreciated as well.</p>
<p>Well Duke is located right in Research Triangle Park, I believe biomedical engineering is a rapidly growing field in the region. That is sure to be great for internships. Also, I would have to give Duke in the campus life category.</p>
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Which one would be better for Biomed? They both cost the same, so this is assuming I can pay for either one.
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<p>Duke biomedical engineering is a better program than WUSTL. WUSTL is good, but their specialty is more for biological sciences. I also think WUSTL has a slightly better general engineering program overall than Duke (except biomed).</p>
<p>As far as sports and social life, I'd say Duke is the better environment.</p>
<p>If you're deadset on biomedical engineering, I'd choose Duke.</p>
<p>You didn't ask, but if I were you, I'd major in a more general, broader engineering like chemical or mechanical and I would choose UNC-Chapel Hill to save money...UNC's engineering is just as good as Duke (except biomed). You'll get the same job offers engineering-wise from Duke or UNC. I suggest the more traditional, general engineering degree for undergrad because it will offer you a broader employment base. UNC also has an awesome sports/social environment like Duke.</p>
<p>I'm acutally only applying to the engineering schools because of Biomed, I have absolutely zero interest in mech, electrical, or other types of engineering...if the Biomed doesn't work out I plan to major in a science like Molecular Biology. </p>
<p>I'm actually considering UNC - Chapel Hill a lot...I spent a weekend there for the Morehead Finalist weekend (didn;t get it, UGH SO CLOSE), and I think I would be very happy if I went there...I like the whole broad based education thing they have going. Plus, they have a not-shabby joint biomed department with NC State.</p>
<p>But yes, Biomed remains prominent, hence the anguish over these schools. </p>
<p>Once again, thanks, that helped. (of course, more would be welcomed :) )</p>
<p>It's a tough choice. I'd wait until you get all your financial aid awards laid out in front of you, the choice will likely become clearer (hopefully).</p>
<p>What happens if you get into Stanford, Hopkins and Harvard? I think my head might explode over that decision...LOL</p>
<p>You're in a good position. You won't go wrong with any choice.</p>
<p>Assuming there isn't a significant difference in cost, I would recommend Duke over WUSTL. Of course, if you get acceptances from JHU, Stanford and/or Harvard, the decision becomes a hell of a lot tougher!</p>
<p>It probably doesn't matter academically. I'd suggest you go where you think you'd be most happy and graduate with the least debt. Those are all excellent schools. You're obviously a very bright person and will, likely, excel anywhere as long as you're non-academic needs are met. Go someplace where you can have a great time and a great education.</p>
<p>You didn't say what you want to do with a degree in biomedical engineering. If you are using it as a stepping stone to medical school--the truth is it probably doesn't matter where you go among the group you applied to. If you want to get a job in biomedical engineering after graduation (eventually you will have to go to graduate school if you are serious about the field), you will definitely have a leg up with a degree from Hopkins(#1) or Duke(#2).</p>
<p>Obviously, since you are interested in BME or BioE, you will want Duke. Imo, undergraduate won't matter since you learn practically the same things anywhere. Both are really nice schools, but Duke is more prestigious.</p>
<p>Just pick your school after all your acceptances come out.</p>
<p>so I found out I got the Gustav Mesmer Scholarship at WashU, which for me comes to about $30,000 including loans and work study and such. So I'm considering WashU a lot more now, since now it costs just $2K more than UNC - Chapel Hill. Hopefully Duke will come through on some need based aid...I didn't get any of their merit based ones. </p>
<p>Congrats on the scholarship. Wait until you get all your need and merit based aid, then decide. </p>
<p>Be sure to add in estimated travel costs. Subtract out any loans that you receive. Loans should not be considered aid, as it doesn't lower your cost. Work study is aid, but consider the opportunity cost and how much time it might take away from your studies.</p>