<p>Regarding the major, I will agree that Cornell has a better program for what you are interested in. Then again, you can do basic biology and go to vet school later. You do not have to necessarily decide on a specific discipline and follow it for UG and grad school. Rice will give you the option of trying something different and going for more of a UG experience than just a degree.</p>
<p>As for the weather, it is pretty miserable in August. It is 100+ degrees for a few weeks and is super humid. The rest of the year is nice. It is in the 70’s right now and is pleasant. Cornell is miserably cold and depressing for most of the year though. Definitely picked the two extremes</p>