OSU or UW: A Comparative Dilemma

I'm torn between OSU and the University of Washington. I've applied to both, and am really struggling to make a decision. I'm interested in hearing your experiences or opinions about both colleges. If anyone attended either of these places, could you please share your thoughts?

Absolutely, glad to help provide some insights into both Ohio State University (OSU) and the University of Washington (UW).

Let's first discuss academics. Both OSU and UW are reputable institutions, but the strength of their programs can vary based on your intended major. For example, UW is renowned for its science, engineering, and medicine with its Computer Science and Engineering programs consistently ranked among the top in the nation. OSU, on the other hand, has strong programs in business, and engineering, including majors like logistic engineering and welding engineering that are unique to OSU.

Both schools have large student populations, which means you'll have access to a wide variety of student organizations and activities. There's a vibrant campus life that fosters a strong sense of community despite the large size. However, the size can also mean larger class sizes, particularly in introductory-level courses.

When comparing the campus environments, OSU is located in Columbus, Ohio, which is the state's largest city and the third most populous city in the Midwest. Columbus offers a city atmosphere with numerous job and internship opportunities, arts and culture, and sports events. UW, however, is based in Seattle, Washington, one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the US, offering great professional opportunities, especially for STEM fields.

Regarding sports, if you're interested in collegiate athletics, OSU has one of the most fervent sports cultures in the U.S. It's a big part of what energizes the campus life. UW also has great sports teams, but OSU’s football culture is something special and is often said to unite the student body.

When considering the weather, Ohio experiences all four seasons, whereas Seattle's climate is milder but has more rain. Additionally, Seattle offers access to a wide variety of outdoors activities, from hiking to sailing, something to consider if you enjoy nature.

Above all, your decision should hinge on which university aligns better with your academic, social, and future professional goals. You must consider the academic programs, research opportunities, internship possibilities, and campus culture of each school in the fields that interest you. Be sure to carefully weigh each factor, considering what aspects of your college experience are most important to you.