UMD vs Ohio State: Which should I pick?

Hey, so I've been accepted to both UMD and Ohio State and I'm on the fence about which to choose. Anyone have experience with either of these universities? Info on student life, academics, faculty, anything really would be super helpful. Thanks a bunch.

Congratulations on your acceptances! It can certainly be tough choosing between two great schools like University of Maryland (UMD) and Ohio State University (OSU).

Let's start with academics. Both UMD and OSU are institutions with strong academic programs, but their strengths do differ depending on the major. For example, UMD is known for its programs in journalism and engineering, while OSU has a top-rated business school and is also praised for its programs in the health sciences. If you already have a specific major in mind, it might benefit you to do some research into how each school's program in that major stacks up.

Regarding student life, OSU's campus is located in Columbus, which is a larger city compared to College Park where UMD is located. This could influence your experience depending on your preferences. Some students appreciate the vibrancy and diverse opportunities a big city offers, while others prefer a smaller, college town atmosphere. OSU is also renowned for its athletics, Buckeye pride is palpable on campus and the community is very spirit-driven.

UMD, on the other hand, while having a competitive athletic department, is particularly known for its active and diverse student organizations, ranging from professional and academic clubs to recreational and service organizations.

In terms of faculty, both schools employ distinguished professors in their respective fields. However, class sizes vary. At UMD, the student-faculty ratio is approximately 18:1, while at OSU it's around 19:1. This ratio could impact your classroom experience, with a potential for more personalized attention at UMD.

Lastly, you should also consider financial elements. Review the financial aid packages each school has offered and take into account the overall cost coming with living in Columbus or College Park. While it's important to prioritize academic and social fit, finances are a significant and practical aspect that could influence your final decision.

Remember that the key to making a decision is finding the place where you'll be happiest for the next four years, one that aligns with both your academic and personal goals. Consider visiting the campuses, if possible, to get a firsthand feel of each environment.

Good luck with your decision! You really can’t go wrong with either choice.