Cornell vs Carnegie Mellon: which is better?

Hey everyone, I'm considering applying to both Cornell and Carnegie Mellon but I'm a bit undecided. Can someone help me understand the differences between these two schools in terms of campus environment, academics, and student life? Thanks!

Sure, I'd be happy to provide an overview of the differences between Cornell and Carnegie Mellon in terms of campus environment, academics, and student life.

Campus Environment:

Cornell is located in Ithaca, New York, which is known for its natural beauty, including gorgeous gorges, waterfalls, and parks. The campus itself is large and encompasses both urban and rural settings. Students at Cornell have access to a wide range of outdoor activities as well as a small but vibrant downtown area.

Carnegie Mellon is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which is a mid-sized city with several distinct neighborhoods and lots of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and sports venues. The campus is more compact and has an urban setting, with convenient access to the city's amenities.

Academics:

Both Cornell and Carnegie Mellon are renowned for their strong academic programs, but they have different areas of focus. Cornell is an Ivy League school with a wide range of programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, sciences, and engineering, as well as specialized schools like the School of Hotel Administration and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Carnegie Mellon, on the other hand, is particularly well-known for its programs in computer science, engineering, and fine arts. Additionally, it has strong programs in business, economics, and the sciences. If you're interested in technology or the arts, Carnegie Mellon might be the better choice for you.

Student Life:

At Cornell, there are over 1,000 student clubs and organizations, offering a diverse array of opportunities for involvement in activities, ranging from community service to Greek life. The large undergraduate population at Cornell provides a wide variety of social, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

Carnegie Mellon also offers a range of student clubs and organizations, but the social scene might be considered a bit more subdued compared to Cornell. The student population is smaller than at Cornell, which can give the campus a more close-knit feel.

In summary, if you prefer a more rural campus environment with a wide range of academic programs and an active social scene, Cornell might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are leaning towards a more urban setting, with specific interests in computer science, engineering, or fine arts, then Carnegie Mellon is worth considering. Ultimately, choosing between these two excellent colleges depends on your individual preferences and academic interests.