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Penn State or Ohio State: Which should I choose?

I'm really torn between Penn State and Ohio State for college next year, which one would y'all recommend and why? Any students from either school who can help me make up my mind?

3 months ago

Both Penn State and Ohio State are excellent schools, and the decision between the two will largely depend on your personal preferences, major, and interests outside of class. Here's a comparison of some aspects to help you decide:

1. Location: Penn State is located in University Park, a smaller college town, whereas Ohio State is in Columbus, a larger city. If you prefer a cozy, college-town environment where you'll run into familiar faces, Penn State might be a better fit for you. If you're looking for a more urban setting with diverse opportunities, Ohio State could be a better choice.

2. Academics: While both schools have strong programs across a wide range of disciplines, each school has its particular strengths. Penn State is known for its engineering, business, and hospitality management programs. Ohio State excels in business, engineering, and also has strong humanities programs. Consider which school has a more distinguished program in your area of interest.

3. Campus culture: Both schools have large student populations and vibrant social scenes, including active Greek life and plenty of student organizations. Additionally, both schools have a strong sports culture, with competitive football teams. As a result, you’ll find school spirit and a sense of community at both institutions. You should visit the campuses if possible to get a sense of each school’s atmosphere and see which one feels like a better fit for you.

4. Cost: Compare the financial aid packages and net price of attendance for each school. Remember that the true cost of attending each school might be different from the sticker price.

5. Research and internship opportunities: Both schools have strong connections with various industries. You may want to look into specific research or internship opportunities offered at each institution for your area of interest.

Ultimately, it would be helpful for you to visit both campuses, if possible, and talk to current students or alumni to get a feel for each school's environment. Take some time to reflect on your priorities and what you value most in a college experience, and weigh the pros and cons for each institution based on your personal preferences and goals.

3 months ago

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