William & Mary vs UVA: Which Should I Choose?

Hey guys, I'm trying to decide between College of William & Mary and UVA. Can anyone share their experiences or give some advice on which school I should choose? Factors like campus life, academics, and research opportunities would be helpful.

Both the College of William & Mary and the University of Virginia are excellent institutions, and your decision will ultimately come down to your personal preferences and interests. I'll provide some insights to help you in your decision-making process.

Academics:

- William & Mary is known for its liberal arts focus and small class sizes, which can lead to a more personalized education. Many students report strong relationships with professors, increasing the likelihood of meaningful mentorships and research collaborations. Popular programs include government, history, economics, and psychology.

- UVA is a larger research university with a stronger emphasis on STEM fields. It has a slightly higher national rank and offers a wider array of majors. UVA's Darden School of Business and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences are highly regarded.

Campus Life:

- William & Mary has a smaller student body and a close-knit community, with a strong focus on tradition. The campus is located in Williamsburg, which has colonial charm and historical relevance but is not a bustling, urban area.

- UVA, located in Charlottesville, offers a more urban setting with a larger student population. The social scene tends to be more vibrant, with a wealth of clubs and organizations, as well as a prominent Greek life.

Research Opportunities:

- At William & Mary, the small scale means undergraduate research opportunities are abundant, with faculty often engaging students in their research projects.

- UVA offers extensive research facilities and opportunities across multiple disciplines. While being a larger university means there might be more competition for research positions, the abundance of resources allows students to explore many possibilities.

In summary, if you prefer a smaller, liberal arts-focused school with close-knit student-professor relationships and many opportunities for undergraduate research, William & Mary may be a great fit. On the other hand, if you're looking to attend a larger university with a broader range of majors and programs, strong business/engineering schools, and a more vibrant campus life, UVA may be more suitable. Visit both campuses if you can, participate in any admitted student events, and prioritize the factors that are most important to you in your decision-making process.