Hey everyone, international student here and I'm really struggling with this decision. Would love some perspectives.
So I got into both University of Richmond and Washington and Lee with full rides (tuition + room & board + flights, everything covered) which is honestly amazing and I'm super grateful. But now I actually have to choose and I'm kind of freaking out.
My situation:
\- Planning to double major in neuroscience and political science, maybe minor in math
\- I'm on the UPenn waitlist so there's a chance that could come through, but obviously can't count on it
My concerns:
W&L pros: Amazing financial aid consortium, small classes, strong alumni network, seems academically rigorous
W&L cons: Lexington feels REALLY remote (like genuinely middle of nowhere?), worried about feeling isolated as an international student, Greek life seems to dominate social scene which isn't really my thing
Richmond pros: Closer to a real city, more diverse student body from what I've read, beautiful campus, still great academics
Richmond cons: Not sure if neuroscience program is as strong? Less name recognition maybe?
Questions:
For my intended majors (neuro + poli sci), is one clearly better?
How important is the location factor? Will I regret being somewhere super rural for 4 years?
As an international student, which school would be better for feeling less isolated?
Any advice would be amazing!!