When it comes to choosing between Cornell University and George Mason University, prospective students have a tough decision to make. Both institutions offer top-notch academic programs, vibrant student life, and promising career prospects. However, there are some key differences between the two schools that students should consider before making their final choice.
Academic Programs
Cornell is an Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academics and research prowess. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, business, medicine, and law. George Mason is a public research university that offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and policy.
In terms of rankings, Cornell consistently places among the top 20 universities in the world, according to QS World University Rankings. George Mason, on the other hand, is ranked among the top 200 universities in the world.
Student Life
Cornell has a large and diverse student body of over 22,000 students. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including more than 1,000 student clubs and organizations. George Mason has a smaller student body of around 33,000 students, but it still offers a vibrant and active campus life. The university has over 400 student clubs and organizations, as well as a variety of Greek life options.
Cost and Financial Aid
Cornell is a private university, and its tuition is accordingly higher than George Mason’s tuition. However, Cornell offers a generous financial aid program that makes it affordable for most students. George Mason is a public university, and its tuition is more affordable than Cornell’s tuition. However, George Mason does not offer as much financial aid as Cornell.
Career Outcomes
Cornell graduates are highly sought-after by employers, and they command high salaries. The university’s career center provides a wide range of services to help students prepare for their careers. George Mason graduates are also successful in the job market, and they earn competitive salaries. The university’s career center offers a variety of services to help students find jobs and internships.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When choosing between Cornell and George Mason, it is important to avoid making some common mistakes. These mistakes include:
- Not considering the academic programs. Students should make sure that the university they choose offers the programs they are interested in.
- Not considering the cost. Students should factor in the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses when making their decision.
- Not considering the student life. Students should make sure that the university they choose offers the type of student life they are looking for.
- Not applying for financial aid. Students who need financial aid should apply for it as early as possible.
How to Apply
To apply to Cornell, students must submit the Common Application or the Universal College Application. They must also submit their high school transcripts, test scores, and a personal statement. To apply to George Mason, students must submit the Common Application or the Coalition Application. They must also submit their high school transcripts, test scores, and a personal statement.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cornell and George Mason:
- Which university is better? There is no easy answer to this question. Both Cornell and George Mason are excellent universities. The best university for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs.
- Which university is more affordable? George Mason is more affordable than Cornell. However, Cornell offers a generous financial aid program that makes it affordable for most students.
- Which university has a better career center? Both Cornell and George Mason have excellent career centers. The career center at Cornell is larger and offers a wider range of services. However, the career center at George Mason is also very effective in helping students find jobs and internships.
- Which university has a more vibrant student life? Cornell has a larger and more diverse student body than George Mason. As a result, Cornell has a wider range of extracurricular activities and student organizations. However, George Mason also has a vibrant and active campus life.