SMU vs. TCU: opinions?

Hey everyone! I'm currently considering both SMU and TCU for college, but I'm having trouble deciding between the two. Can anyone share their experiences and the strengths/weaknesses? Thanks in advance!

Hello! Both SMU and TCU are excellent schools, and choosing between them can be tough. I will highlight some differences to help you make a more informed decision.

Campus and Location:

SMU is located in the urban area of Dallas, offering convenient access to the city's resources, internships, and events. The campus is surrounded by upscale neighborhoods, shops, and parks. TCU, on the other hand, is located in Fort Worth, a slightly smaller city than Dallas. The area around TCU has more of a suburban feel, with a mix of residential and commercial zones. The campus itself is beautiful and spacious with plenty of green spaces.

Academic Reputation:

Both schools offer strong academic programs, but they have slightly different areas of focus. SMU is known for its business, communications, and engineering programs, as well as a strong emphasis on the arts - the Meadows School of the Arts being one of its renowned schools. TCU is well-regarded for its nursing, education, and business programs. Additionally, both schools have fairly small class sizes, which provides a more personalized learning experience.

Athletics:

If you're a fan of college sports, you might lean towards TCU. They have a more extensive athletics program and are a part of the Big 12 Conference, which is known for its competitive sports teams. While SMU also offers various sports, they are in the AAC and aren't as prominent in the sports scene as TCU.

Greek Life:

Both schools have active and vibrant Greek life scenes. At SMU, approximately 50% of students participate in fraternities and sororities, while at TCU, it's about 40%. If a strong Greek presence is essential to you, you might find SMU a more suitable choice.

Financial Aid:

When it comes to financial aid, it's essential to compare offers and run the numbers. Use each school's net price calculator to estimate your financial aid package and compare the schools based on cost.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on which school aligns better with your goals, interests, and preferences. I suggest visiting both campuses if you haven't already and connecting with current students or alumni to get a feel for each community's vibe. Good luck with your decision!