sleepdeficit

Hi guys! I'm deciding between UT Austin and UW right now and I'm kind of confused - both are great. I'm sort of leaning towards the UW, but I'd like to know what you think about the two.

So...I'm a domestic student living abroad (Hong Kong).

ACADEMICS: I'm interested in journalism/linguistics and I've checked both departments. Both schools seem pretty much the same.

WEATHER: The weather doesn't bother me too much. I can handle the heat/rain so both are alright.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Seattle seems to be a tiny bit better? More media.

TRANSPORTATION: Since my parents aren't going to live in the States with me, I don't think I'll get a car. Which city has better public transport?

RESIDENCY: Is it easier to establish residency in Texas?

CONCERTS: The most superficial section. Haha, I love concerts, the whole music scene etc. Of course, Austin as SXSW.

If you have any ideas/comments, I'd love to read 'em.

sleepdeficit

Bump 10char

andrewt787

As overall universities, UT and Washington are pretty similar peer schools. I think UT has a slight edge, but nothing huge. They're both top 10 public universities, and I think you'll be happy at either one.

For journalism/linguistics, I again think UT has a slight edge, but there's not going to be a huge difference.

Texas is a much more populous state than WA. There will likely be more media opportunities in Dallas/Houston than Seattle.

ucbalumnus

Is either school impacted for your intended major so that you have to apply to declare it? Or have you been admitted into the major as a freshman? Washington's major list is here: UW Advising - List of Majors . For Texas, put "change major [your intended major]" in the search box on its web site if you are not admitted into your intended major.

Is there a significant difference in net cost? If so, and you cannot otherwise decide, you may want to choose the less expensive one.

OuterSpace

I'd generally agree with the above. UT and Washington are both top 10 public universities and you can't go wrong with either.

I'd give UT the edge in prestige though as they generally have higher departmental rankings. I'm not really sure about journalism rankings, but I know UT is definitely considered top 20.

I'd focus more on non-academic attributes and fit. UT will have a little more school spirit. I also think there are more opportunities in Texas than WA after graduation. I also heard that UW has a sizeable number of commuters since it's located in Seattle.

sleepdeficit

Thanks guys! I'm checking out the residency requirements, don't want to pay the OOS fees. I'll go to the one that is relatively cheaper, which seems to be UT right now!