<p>I’ve heard that the special programs are selective (I’ve heard of Huntsman in particular), but can someone give me a better idea of how hard it is to get in?</p>
<p>Also, how would the two programs compare in difficulty? Is Huntsman the hardest to get into? (I’m blindly guessing because again, it’s the only one I’ve heard people discuss.) </p>
<p>Lastly, if I’m more interested in science (chemistry, biology, etc.) then the R&D Vagelos program suits me better right? I’m not really interested in International studies, but what’s the difference between Business and Management?</p>
<p>cadillac your question sounds absolutely absurd.
It’s like asking “I hate physics and math, should I apply to MIT engineering?”</p>
<p>If you don’t like IR, don’t apply for it. There is no difference between business and management. Both programs involve a Wharton education. However, I advise you to not chase prestige and just get an education in a field you enjoy. If you like science, there is no shame in going into engineering or college without Wharton, fancy programs, etc.</p>
<p>Yeah, I realize the answer was pretty obvious, but I just wanted to make sure. Prestige is attractive, but that is not the sole basis of my decision. UPenn funds its research departments very well and needless to say, also excels in business (and yes, I am also interested in business.)</p>
<p>Would you be able to give me an example of how hard it is to get into R&D Vagelos program, then? (Perhaps even in comparison to Huntsman, Wharton alone, or overall admissions.)</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>Oh I found out that R&D only accepts ~20 students every year, so I’m probably not qualified. But maybe I will still try since they will consider me for CAS if I am rejected. </p>
<p>I suppose my new question is: Should I not be able to study at CAS and Wharton, I can still study double in CAS right?</p>
<p>Also, do separate admissions committees read the essays? For example, will my regional admissions officer see the essay I wrote for the R&D program? (If not, then I guess I’ll just make it my optional essay.)</p>
<p>To get into Vagelos/Huntsman, you have to be accepted into both schools first (both CAS and Wharton). Then, your application gets sent to the specific program committee where they review your application. So, it is harder to get into one of these programs especially since they tend attract some of the strongest applicants (relative to the entire applicant pool). </p>
<p>With that said, I was accepted ED to Vagelos with 2300/34 SAT/ACT. Also, I had a lot of previous lab experience as well as other ECs of course. </p>
<p>You should apply to whichever you feel most passionate about because ultimately, these programs are difficult from what I hear, so you will end up hating your life if you get accepted and are not passionate about what you are learning.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>What year are you Quaker? How do you like the program so far? Is it what you expected? Thanks.</p>
<p>HapaGirl, sorry if my post sounded misleading. I was accepted this year 2014, so I’m not speaking from personal experience, but I have 2 friends in Vagelos, 1 in Huntsman, and 1 in M&T. They have given me all of my advice.</p>
<p>But from what they have told me, they all love the programs. Yes, they are hard to manage, but it has been worth it in their opinions. Hope this helps!</p>
<p>No problem, quaker. Good luck next year!</p>
<p>quaker, do you have any idea how many spots are left for the vagelos program this year? have you spoken to any other accepted vagelos students?</p>
<p>kcm, I only know of 6 people that are into vagelos ED this year (from the facebook group), so that leaves ~19 spots left (25 max total). Of course, there are probably more than 6 who were accepted but just didn’t join the group…</p>
<p>Hey quaker, could you possible give an overview of your stats, just so I can get an idea whether if I stand a chance? Thanks</p>