Yale vs. Harvard vs. Princeton - which should I choose?

Hey guys, I've been researching Yale, Harvard, and Princeton, and I'm really torn between these top schools. Can anyone share their thoughts or personal experiences to help me decide which one would be the best fit for me?

Congratulations on having such amazing options! You can't go wrong with any of these, but I'll give you a quick overview of what makes each school unique to help you decide.

Yale University:

- Known for its strong residential college system, fostering a tight-knit community where students have close relationships with their peers and faculty.

- Generally considered to have a very artsy, creative atmosphere with vibrant arts and theater scenes.

- Offers arguably the most flexible distribution requirements among these three, with many opportunities to explore diverse academic interests.

- New Haven has a more urban feel than the other two schools, which may be a factor to consider.

Harvard University:

- Renowned for its extensive resources and powerful alumni network, giving you access to world-class research, internships, and networking opportunities.

- Has the largest endowment of any university in the world, meaning greater financial support for students and their projects.

- Offers a core curriculum with broader requirements, ensuring its students are getting a well-rounded education.

- Cambridge is a bustling college town that's just across the river from downtown Boston, offering more city life amenities.

Princeton University:

- Known for having a strong undergraduate focus, meaning students have more opportunities to work closely with professors.

- Smallest enrollment among the three, offering a more intimate learning environment and strong connections with peers and faculty.

- Unique academic requirement: all students must complete a senior thesis, which is a year-long independent research project.

- The suburban, picturesque campus is within walking distance to the center of Princeton, a charming town with more of a small-town atmosphere.

Ultimately, the choice depends on what kind of environment you're looking for, as well as any area of academic or extracurricular interest that one of these schools may excel in. I encourage you to visit each campus, talk to current students, and imagine your life there for the next four years. In the end, go with your gut and choose a school that feels like the best fit for you. Good luck!