UW Madison vs Ohio State: Which school should I choose?

I've been admitted to both the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Ohio State University, and I'm having trouble deciding where to go. Can anyone share their experience related to the schools, especially the business programs? Also, how do the social and campus environments compare? Thanks a ton!

First of all, congratulations on your acceptances! Both UW-Madison and Ohio State are great schools, but they do have some differences that may sway your decision.

In terms of their business programs, both are highly-regarded and offer strong academic opportunities. However, the Wisconsin School of Business at UW-Madison is ranked slightly higher than the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State. This may mean more networking opportunities and potentially better resources available at UW-Madison, but this should not be your sole deciding factor. Consider visiting the business schools' websites to see which one offers the concentrations, faculty, and extracurricular opportunities that you are more interested in.

As for the social and campus environments, both schools have a bustling campus life with plenty of student organizations, clubs, and sports. UW-Madison is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful views of Lake Mendota, and a strong sense of school spirit with the Badgers. The Terrace, a popular spot on campus where students gather to study, socialize, and relax, adds to the charm of UW-Madison. Ohio State is also famous for its vast array of activities, dedicated Buckeyes fans, and a large, diverse student population. The campus offers a blend of urban and suburban settings.

It's worth noting that Madison, being the capital city of Wisconsin, offers more cultural opportunities and has a more "college-town" feel compared to Columbus, which is a larger city. The weather at both campuses can get quite cold during the winter months, so be prepared for that.

Ultimately, your choice should be based on which campus and program you feel more comfortable with and how well they align with your academic and personal goals. If possible, consider visiting both campuses to get a feel for the environment and talk to current students, professors, or even sit in on a class. Taking a virtual tour or connecting with alumni can also help you make the decision.

Good luck with your decision, and I'm sure you'll have a great experience at either institution!