My family isn’t American; I’ve been accepted to two schools and I’m not sure where to go from here (Penn State and University of South Carolina)

College Search & Lists
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My parents and I are immigrants, but I was raised mostly in the US. I’ve got decent grades, good SAT, whatever else I’ve been told to do.

I’ve been accepted to Penn State and the University of South Carolina (I live in PA).

I don’t know which to pick. I want to go for biology but also want a place I can fit in because growing up I’ve had very few friends who genuinely understand me (I’ve had to compartmentalize friends based on what interests I share; video game friends, fishing friends, study friends).

I’ve gotten a tuition reduction from Carolina, so both schools come down to about 15-20k tuition (forget the exact numbers). Money isn’t a major concern but any way I can reduce it that you guys know of, I’ll take.

On the other subject, what do I do now?

I mean, I did the FAFSA and sent it to both schools. Now I have to do the housing stuff, although frankly I’ve got no clue how to navigate it, what to avoid and what I should definitely aim for.

I should clarify that I want to later go to either UPenn or some other Ivy for a doctorate in a field of biology, assuming all goes well.

What should I do, guys? Should I just accept Penn State and get started on housing and stuff? (I’m leaning towards here because of the alumni connections that they keep flaunting, although I’m not necessarily convinced just yet).

This has all been a major source of stress because neither me nor my parents know what to do.

It’s gotten to the point where I’m spending more time wondering what I’m going to do with myself rather than anything productive. My grades are dipping and it’s really annoying…

Any help that you guys can offer I’d much appreciate.

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Can you visit either school to see which one appeals to you more?

Plus, if you know you want research, try looking at the professors to see if they have their particular fields of research listed. One or the other might appeal to you more. Chances are you can’t get involved right away, but you can see if there are options to join them in research once you get the basics under your belt.

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It’s about where you think you would be comfortable for 4 years. The settings are very different and these settings will influence your performance. Join an “accepted students” page on Facebook and ask questions for each university.

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Heads you win. Tails you win. Both are fine.

Has either admitted you to Honors ?

One is gigantic, in the middle of nowhere.

One is large but not gigantic and is in a mid size city.

Sounds like you live in PA. Is transport…at holidays, etc an issue? PSU might be easier but you can fly or find rides from U of SC.

You have plenty of time.

Both schools should have sent you next steps. Work through their instructions.

It’s likely you need to work on housing next. This is where you may need to pay. And if u are not ready then take some time. Best to visit if you can. Join online sessions where you can get questions answered.

At any large school, you’ll have a chance to find your crowd. Sometimes it takes a while but through the dorm, clubs, or class u will.

Slow down. It will all be ok. In fact both probably are so once u make a decision don’t look back.

Congrats to you.

Ps as far as alumni goes PSU is known. But with a bio degree and grad school it won’t matter. And I know several recent PSU grads that say the alumni thing is a farce. I think any school alumni can be there for you if you network and make the effort.

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I was not accepted to Carolina’s Honors college, and I hear back from Penn State’s Honors tomorrow. I suppose I just really needed these outside perspectives. Thank you for all this information, it’s super helpful!

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Will do, thank you!

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I have checked out Penn State (the University Park campus) and it was very impressive, I want to see South Carolina soon but have yet to schedule a visit

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I work with many Penn State graduates. I can say from my experience their alumni network is strong. They look out for each other.

I would certainly pick the one that you think you would fit better at.

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Penn State

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Relax. You’re probably suffering from senioritis.

Both are fine schools. I’m assuming both are not direct admit for biology. What GPA do you need? Is there a minimum GPA to keep the scholarship at SC?

You’ll need some money for travel each year. Is that an issue?

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Agree with above comments! Both are great. U of SC seems to have more in marine science and biology, if that is of interest. U of SC has a language requirement (which D was NOT happy about), but you may not mind! I am a (many years ago now) bio grad from PSU and there are many undergraduate research opportunities if you are interested in this (and a good way to see if you really do want to go to grad school). I definitely think a student perspective would be great-join admitted student groups etc or email admissions and ask if they have a student “ambassador” that might be willing to talk to you. Honestly, if you do well at either, you will get into grad schools.

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I know tons and I agree. It might be stronger in PA than elsewhere perhaps, but it’s very strong in the state.

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We just visited u of sc. campus was a huge let down. Too spread out. The dorm room we looked at also not great. We are in state for sc and my kid decided she will go to clemson instead. Dont know anything about penn state.

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Update: was not accepted to Penn State Honors college, I’m really appreciative of all your comments and I’ll try my best to follow your advice. Thanks so much to everyone!

Grazie! Gracias! :smiley: