St. John's vs. Hofstra: Thoughts?

So I've been considering both St. John's and Hofstra and I'm kinda torn between the two. Can anyone who has experience with either school (or both) share their thoughts on academics, campus life, and overall experience? It would really help me make a decision. Thanks!

I'm happy to offer some insights into St. John's University and Hofstra University. Both schools have their unique advantages, and examining academics, campus life, and overall experience can help you make a decision.

Academics:

St. John's has a strong focus on liberal arts education, boasting reputable programs in pharmacy, business, law, and criminal justice. The class sizes tend to be relatively small, which provides opportunities for closer interaction with professors.

Hofstra has a stellar communications program, along with reputable business, engineering, and health sciences programs. Their class sizes are generally moderate, and the faculty is known to be very accessible to students.

Campus Life:

St. John's University is located in Queens, New York, which offers easy access to Manhattan through public transportation. The campus itself is compact, safe, and well-maintained. There is an active Greek life scene, as well as various clubs and organizations to participate in. While many students do commute, there are still on-campus residence options available.

Hofstra University's campus in Hempstead, Long Island provides a suburban setting that's also in proximity to New York City. Their campus is picturesque and larger than St. John's, offering a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Hofstra has a diverse range of clubs, organizations, and a strong intramural and club sports program. Greek life is present, though not the primary focus of campus social life. Hofstra also offers a variety of on-campus housing options.

Overall Experience:

Both universities provide access to New York City and its resources. St. John's has a stronger Catholic influence, while Hofstra may offer a more secular experience. The athletic atmosphere at St. John's is more intense, with their Division I sports and highly recognized basketball program. Hofstra's sports culture is more laid-back, with a focus on intramurals and club sports.

Ultimately, your choice between St. John's and Hofstra might come down to personal preferences in academic programs, campus size, student life, and atmosphere. To help further your decision-making, you could consider visiting each campus, talking with current students or alumni, and even attending an overnight event to get a feel for the school environment. Good luck!