Lehigh vs Holy Cross for Pre-Med

Hey all! I need some advice. I got accepted to Lehigh and Holy Cross, and I plan on pursuing the pre-med track. How do their pre-med programs compare in terms of course rigor, faculty support, and med school placement rates? Also, how's the student life on both campuses? Thanks in advance!

Congratulations on your acceptances! Both Lehigh University and College of the Holy Cross are great choices for pre-med students, but there are some differences to consider.

In terms of course rigor, both schools have solid pre-med programs that will challenge you academically and prepare you for medical school. However, Holy Cross is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, which might give you a more well-rounded experience and help you develop critical thinking and communication skills that will be valuable in medical school and beyond.

Faculty support also plays a significant role in your pre-med journey, particularly when it comes to research opportunities, mentorship, and letters of recommendation for medical school. Both schools have dedicated pre-med advisors who can provide guidance, but the overall support you receive will largely depend on the relationships you build with your professors. Generally, it's worth noting that Holy Cross is known to have a more intimate environment, thanks to its smaller class sizes and close-knit community, which can make it easier to connect with faculty on a personal level.

As for med school placement rates, both schools boast strong numbers. However, med school acceptance can be influenced by various factors, such as MCAT scores, GPA, and extracurricular involvement, so it's essential to consider the whole package when choosing a school. Your chances of being accepted to medical school will depend much more on your personal effort during undergrad than the name of your institution.

Regarding student life, the campuses have distinct vibes. Lehigh's campus is larger and has a livelier social scene with various clubs, sports teams, and Greek life, which all come together to a strong sense of school spirit. In contrast, Holy Cross offers a more tightly-knit community in a smaller campus, where students often form close bonds and find a strong sense of belonging.

Ultimately, the choice between Lehigh and Holy Cross depends on your personal preference and what kind of atmosphere and academic experience you're looking for. It might be helpful to visit both campuses (virtually or in-person) and speak with current pre-med students from each school to get their perspectives. Good luck with your decision!