Michigan or Ohio State: A Comparison

Hey there, fellow applicants! I'm trying to weigh my options between the University of Michigan and Ohio State University. Can someone break down some pros and cons, in terms of academics, campus culture, and other key factors? Thank you!

Sure, happy to help! Here's a breakdown of key factors for University of Michigan (U-M) and Ohio State University (OSU):

1. Academics:

U-M is often ranked higher in national and global rankings, and it is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and liberal arts. It offers a diverse range of academic options and boasts a robust research culture. OSU also has strong academic programs, especially in business, engineering, and agriculture, but U-M generally has the edge in terms of overall academic prestige.

2. Campus culture:

U-M has a spirited campus culture in Ann Arbor, which is a vibrant college town with plenty of activities and opportunities. The students at U-M tend to be more liberal, fostering an open-minded atmosphere. OSU is located in Columbus, which is a larger city with a mix of urban and college-town vibes. Students often describe OSU's campus culture as friendly, diverse, and embracing school spirit, especially during sporting events.

3. Athletics:

Both U-M and OSU have strong athletic programs and participate in the Big Ten conference. College sports, particularly football, are essential aspects of each school's identity, with the U-M vs. OSU rivalry being one of the most intense in college football. Both schools offer numerous recreational sports activities and well-equipped athletic facilities.

4. Size:

U-M enrolls around 34,000 undergraduate students, while OSU has about 50,000. This difference in size can impact the overall feel of each campus. U-M has a more compact campus and a smaller student-to-faculty ratio, which might result in more individual attention. OSU, on the other hand, offers a larger campus with more students and a broader range of opportunities, but may give off a less intimate vibe.

5. Affordability:

Both U-M and OSU offer need-based financial aid, but U-M is considered more generous in terms of grants and scholarships. However, the cost of living in Ann Arbor is often higher than in Columbus. Be sure to use each school's net price calculator to get a better understanding of what your costs would be.

6. Location:

Ann Arbor (U-M) is a quintessential college town with a strong arts scene, lively downtown, and several cultural events throughout the year. Columbus (OSU) is the capital of Ohio and offers the benefits of being in a large city, with a wide array of cultural experiences, dining, and entertainment options.

7. Weather:

The weather at both schools will be very similar, with cold and snowy winters and mild to warm summers. Be prepared for seasonal Midwestern weather at both campuses.

Think about what factors are most important to you, such as academic reputation, campus atmosphere, and location. Additionally, consider visiting both campuses if possible or connecting with current students to get a feel for which community might be a better fit for you. Good luck with your decision!