Hey everyone, I've been admitted to both UCLA and Northwestern, and I'm struggling to decide on one. What are the main differences between them when it comes to campus life, extracurricular activities, and academics? Any input from current or former students would be really helpful!
Congratulations on being admitted to both UCLA and Northwestern! Both are fantastic schools, but they have some key differences that might make one more appealing to you.
Campus Life: UCLA is located in Los Angeles, a bustling city with a lot to do and see. The weather is sunny and warm most of the year, which lends itself to an active, outdoor lifestyle. UCLA's campus is large and beautiful with a lot of green spaces and sports facilities. Northwestern's campus is situated close to Chicago, so you'll still have access to a big city, albeit with colder winters. The campus sits on the shore of Lake Michigan, providing picturesque views and colder weather activities.
Extracurricular Activities: UCLA has a large, diverse student population, and there are over 1,000 student organizations to choose from. The athletics scene is also thriving, with competitive sports teams and a strong fandom. At Northwestern, there are around 500 student organizations, covering a wide range of interests. Northwestern is also part of the Big Ten athletic conference, with plenty of opportunities to participate or support collegiate sports. The arts scene at Northwestern is particularly strong, featuring the renowned School of Communication and Bienen School of Music.
Academics: Both schools excel academically, but differ in the programs they’re known for. UCLA is a public research university and usually has larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. It's highly respected for its STEM programs, film production, and business. On the other hand, Northwestern is a private research university with smaller class sizes and a focus on personalized learning. While Northwestern offers a variety of rigorous programs, it is particularly known for its journalism, communications, and performing arts programs.
When deciding between UCLA and Northwestern, you should consider factors such as location, weather preferences, class size, and the strength of the programs you're interested in. You might also want to visit the campuses or engage in virtual tours to get a better feel for each school's atmosphere. Wishing you the best of luck with your decision!
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