Feeling a bit torn here - I've got Holy Cross and Bucknell on my shortlist and I can't decide which way to lean. Could anyone give me some in-depth comparison between the two? Academics, campus life, opportunities, faculty - all info and experience is appreciated!
Certainly, both Holy Cross and Bucknell have their unique strengths and there are several factors to consider when making your choice.
Academically, both universities are quite strong. Holy Cross, being a liberal arts college, offers a broad-based education encompassing humanities, sciences, and social sciences, with popular majors including economics, political science, and psychology. It follows a seminar-style learning structure which can stimulate intense discussions and might be better suited if you prefer an intimate learning environment.
On the other hand, Bucknell is known not only for its strong liberal arts programs but also its college of engineering and management, providing a wider range of academic options if you are leaning toward those fields. Biology, economics, and psychology are top majors here.
When it comes to faculty interaction, both schools do well due to their relatively smaller sizes. However, Holy Cross stands out with a lower student-faculty ratio, giving students even more opportunities for one-on-one interactions and mentorship with their professors.
In terms of campus life, Bucknell is located in a rural setting and has a strong sense of community, with theater, sports, and Greek life being significant. It offers a division I athletics program which fosters a good deal of school spirit.
Holy Cross, while also having a vibrant campus life and Division I athletics, is located in Worcester, the second-largest city in New England. Being in a city setting gives students more off-campus options for activities, jobs, and internships.
Career opportunities post-graduation are strong at both institutions, though they may cater to different paths. Bucknell's alumni network is known to be very active, with 92% of their graduates reportedly being employed, in graduate school, or volunteering within nine months of graduation. Holy Cross also boasts strong outcomes, known especially for its pre-law and pre-med advising, with many students going on to top law, medical, and graduate schools.
In the end, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and career aspirations. Comparing specific departments or programs of interest at both schools may help you make a more informed decision.
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