Comparison between Penn State and Florida State?

I'm trying to decide between Penn State and Florida State for my college decision. Can someone give me a comparison of the two in terms of academics, campus life, and opportunities? Which would you recommend?

While both Penn State and Florida State are reputable public universities, there are key differences that may help you make a decision. Here's a brief comparison of the two:

Academics:

Penn State: Known for its strong engineering, business, and agriculture programs, Penn State has a large range of academic offerings, allowing students to specialize in their fields of interest. Penn State has a student-faculty ratio of 15:1, and the freshman retention rate is high at around 86%. These points indicate that many students are engaged academically and have various resources available to them.

Florida State: Florida State is recognized for its strong programs in fine arts, political science, and criminology. The university also excels in various research areas, which can provide undergraduate students with valuable research opportunities. The student-faculty ratio at Florida State is 17:1, and the freshman retention rate is 96%.

Campus Life:

Penn State: Located in University Park, PA, the campus provides a blend of suburban and rural environments. The school has a large student body, fostering a lively campus atmosphere, and offers a wide range of clubs, intramural sports, and Greek life. It's worth noting, however, that the colder climate in Pennsylvania might be a factor for some.

Florida State: In contrast, Florida State's campus is located in Tallahassee, FL, which offers a warmer climate and a more urban atmosphere. The campus also has a vibrant student life, with various clubs, organizations, and sports teams to join. One unique aspect of Florida State is the Seminoles' football team, which brings a strong tailgating culture and school spirit.

Opportunities:

Penn State: Internships and job opportunities are plentiful at Penn State, thanks to its ties with renowned businesses and the strong alumni network. Additionally, Penn State has study abroad programs, research opportunities, and career services that support students in finding their desired career paths.

Florida State: Florida State also offers a wide array of opportunities, including research options, internships, and study abroad programs. Being located in the state capital provides students with access to government internships and job opportunities in the public sector.

Choosing between the two largely depends on your personal preferences and academic interests. If you're leaning towards engineering, business, or agriculture, Penn State might be a better fit. However, if you're interested in fine arts, political science, or criminology, or prefer a warmer climate and an urban setting, Florida State might be the right choice for you. Ultimately, it's essential to visit both campuses (if possible) to get a feel for the environment and culture that suits you best.