Forked Road: Johns-Hopkins or Cornell?

Alexandre
Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:57:17 +0000

Do not focus too much on academics and reputation. Those two schools are roughly equal when it comes to those all-important matters.

Instead, focus on what sets them apart. Cornell is quasi-rural, significantly larger and has a pretty significant, undergraduate-domianted social scene. Johns Hopkins is quasi-urban, smaller and not so strong social scene. So, if you like a strong, undergraduate/social feel and/or the great outdoors, go for Cornell. On the other hand, if you prefer a more urban, more serious, thinktank feel to college, Johns Hopkins may be a better option. You really should visit the two schools. They are so different, you are bound to walk away with a clear favorite.

Another thing to consider are finances. You mention that JHU gave you a good financial package. What are we talking about? Can you give us some details on the actual numbers? And can Cornell match that? If you are intending to go to medical school, you want to save as much money as possible as an undergrad because medical school is expensive.