Ohio State or Penn State?

I'm having trouble deciding between Ohio State and Penn State for next year. Academically, they seem pretty similar, so I'm curious about campus life, school spirit, and extracurriculars. Anyone have any insights?

While Ohio State and Penn State are indeed similar academically, they each have their own unique campus life and extracurricular opportunities. Here's a brief comparison of the two schools to help you make a more informed decision.

Campus Life:

Ohio State: The campus is located in Columbus, Ohio, a large city with diverse opportunities for entertainment, internships, and cultural experiences. The campus is relatively urban and has lots of resources for students.

Penn State: The main campus is located in State College, a smaller college town that is more isolated. However, the close-knit community offers a true college town experience with its local shops, restaurants, and overall friendly atmosphere.

School Spirit:

Ohio State: Ohio State has a strong school spirit culture, especially when it comes to sports. The passion for their football team, the Buckeyes, is a highlight of the student experience, with game days being a significant part of the fall semester.

Penn State: Penn State also boasts a vibrant school spirit, known for its "We Are" chant. Like Ohio State, football games are a major event on campus, with the Nittany Lions gathering huge support from students and alumni alike.

Extracurriculars:

Ohio State: With over 1,400 student organizations, Ohio State provides ample opportunities to get involved, whether you're interested in club sports, academic organizations, community service, or Greek life.

Penn State: Similarly, Penn State offers over 1,000 student organizations, including club sports, special interest groups, professional development opportunities, and Greek life. One distinctive extracurricular is THON, a student-run philanthropy event that raises money for pediatric cancer research.

Ultimately, your choice between Ohio State and Penn State may come down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you prefer a larger city with more entertainment and cultural experiences, Ohio State could be a better fit. On the other hand, if you're more interested in a close-knit college town with strong community ties, Penn State might be the best choice for you. Make sure to visit both campuses (if possible) to get a better feel for the atmosphere and see which one resonates with you. Good luck on your decision!