<p>Huge state university in a state with decreasing financial support for higher ed, versus elite private university not too badly affected by the economic downturn? You can do the math.</p>
<p>In truth, both have excellent academics. The difference is that at UM, the excellence is buried under a lot of mediocrity, while at UofC excellence is more uniform. </p>
<p>Culture? Huge versus small. Urban versus suburban/small town. Big time sports versus Div III. Viable greek system versus UofC frats?</p>
<p>Only you can figure out what works for you.</p>