Ithaca College vs. Cornell University

So I'm trying to decide between Ithaca College and Cornell University for my college applications. Can anyone provide a comparison of the two schools regarding academics, campus culture, and overall experience? I'm a bit stressed about making the right choice, so any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

Ithaca College and Cornell University are both located in Ithaca, New York, but they differ significantly in terms of academics, campus culture, and overall experience. Here's a comparison to help you make your decision:

Academics:

- Ithaca College is a smaller, private college that focuses on liberal arts education. It's well-known for its communications, performance arts, and music programs. The class sizes tend to be smaller, which allows for more individualized attention from professors.

- Cornell University, on the other hand, is an Ivy League research university with a more diverse array of academic programs. It's known for its strong engineering, business, agricultural sciences, and hotel administration programs, to name a few. Class sizes can vary widely depending on the subject and level of the course.

Campus Culture:

- Ithaca College has a more intimate campus feel, with a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and community involvement. Some students describe the atmosphere as friendly, collaborative, and artsy.

- Cornell University has a larger and more spread-out campus, with a wider variety of students from different backgrounds. Due to its academic prestige, the environment may be more competitive, but it also fosters intellectual curiosity and engagement. The research and internship opportunities available at Cornell tend to be extensive.

Overall Experience:

- At Ithaca College, you may have a close-knit and supportive community with an emphasis on mentorship and hands-on learning experiences. Social life and extracurriculars play a significant role in the college experience here.

- At Cornell University, you will find a wider network of resources, connections, and academic opportunities. However, the workload, course rigor, and competitive environment can be more challenging.

When deciding between the two, think about what type of learning environment you'd prefer, your academic and career goals, and the kind of college experience you want to have. If you're interested in specific programs, reach out to current students or alumni to learn more about their experiences at each school. Remember, you can apply to both colleges if you're unsure, and make your final decision after considering factors like admitted student visits, financial aid packages, and additional research on each school's strengths and offerings. Good luck!