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What's the best Penn State campus for undergrads?

I'm thinking of applying to Penn State, but I'm a bit confused about which campus to choose. For a typical undergraduate experience, which of the Penn State campuses is considered the best, and why?

5 months ago

The Pennsylvania State University system is large, encompassing over twenty campuses, but the University Park campus is typically seen as the flagship and offers a variety of undergraduate programs.

University Park, which is situated in State College, is the largest campus and is often considered the "best" simply due to the breadth of academic programs, resources, and extracurricular activities available. It is home to more than 42,000 undergraduate students and offers over 275 major programs. There are also more than 1,000 clubs and organizations, providing ample opportunities for students to pursue their interests outside of the classroom. Penn State sporting events, primarily football, are also a huge part of the culture at University Park, adding to the traditional college experience.

In comparison to the branch campuses, which are smaller and may have a more intimate feel, University Park provides a classic large university experience. Many branch campuses also offer four-year programs and have unique attributes, so it comes down to personal preferences and academic goals.

For example, Behrend College in Erie provides strong engineering and business programs in a smaller, more personalized environment. The Abington campus offers opportunities in a suburban setting, just 15 miles from central Philadelphia.

In summary, it depends greatly on what you're looking for in an undergraduate experience. If you're attracted to a broader range of academic and extracurricular options and appreciate the dynamism of a large campus, University Park might be the best choice. But if you prefer smaller class sizes and a more close-knit community, a branch campus like Behrend could be more appealing. Careful consideration of your academic and personal goals will ultimately guide your decision.

5 months ago

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