Need avice picking undergrad school.

In summary, the individual is currently looking at schools to apply to after community college, specifically for a physics undergraduate program. They are considering schools in Pennsylvania and Arizona, and are mainly concerned with finding a reasonably priced school. They have a GPA of 3.3-3.5 and no extracurricular activities. They are also looking for a list of the best physics undergraduate schools and are considering schools such as Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania. They are also open to the University of Arizona, although it may not be the most affordable option for non-residents.
  • #1
vMaster0fPuppet
16
0
I'm now in te process of looking at schools in which I should apply to after community college, and am having a hard time deteminign what schools are the best for me to apply to. I still have no idea what I want to do as a career, but my high school physics class interested me more than any class I had ever taken and I decided I wanted to major in physics. I may go on to engeneering or some other profffesion, but my only concern right now is finding the right school to complete my last two years towards my Bacholers. Being that I entered community college to save money, I also need to find a undergraduate school that is resonably priced. I would like to find a good college in Pennsylvania that I could get into, but have been contemplating mayube Arizona for personal reasons... in reality I would just like a list of the best physics undregraduate schools. I do not have a spectacular GPA, 3.3-3.5 mor that likely and I have participated in absolutly no extra curricular activities, so I know I cannot get into any of the outstanding schools. I feel this may hurt me dearly.

Sorry for the long post, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
Does anybody have a link to a list of schools based on ranking. I'm not looking to get into MIT but don't want to go to the wrong school for this.
 
  • #3
I don't think your undergrad school matters anywhere near as much as your graduate school (someone else can confirm/deny this). Unless you go to an absolutely horrible school you should be getting a decent education anywhere you go. You can check out each school's website for their course listings and see how complete they are for yourself.

This thread has several rankings for various programs - but they're all for graduate programs.

As for schools in Pennsylvania, what about Penn State or the University of Pennsylvania? I doubt either one will have a bad program for physics.
 
  • #4
The University of Arizona is pretty good. IF you were a resident, it would be that much better (tuition wise), but otherwise it's still not that bad.
 
  • #5
Thanks guys. I am more looking toward schools in PA, but was considering others. I'm not so sure I'll be looking for more than a bacholers, so I figured the school would be important. Thanks for the list.
 

FAQ: Need avice picking undergrad school.

What factors should I consider when choosing an undergraduate school?

When choosing an undergraduate school, it is important to consider factors such as academic program offerings, location, cost, campus culture, and career opportunities. Think about what you want to study and make sure the school has a strong program in that field. Consider the location and if it aligns with your preferences and needs. Look into the cost of tuition and living expenses, and if the school offers financial aid options. Research the campus culture and make sure it is a good fit for you. Finally, think about the career opportunities available through internships, networking, and job placement services.

How do I research and compare different undergraduate schools?

There are many resources available for researching and comparing undergraduate schools. You can start by looking at college ranking websites, such as US News and World Report, which provide comprehensive lists and data on schools. You can also visit the websites of individual schools to learn more about their programs, admissions requirements, and campus life. Additionally, consider talking to current students or alumni of the schools you are interested in to get a first-hand perspective.

Is it better to attend a large or small undergraduate school?

This ultimately depends on your personal preferences and goals. Large schools often have more resources and a wider range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. They also tend to have larger class sizes and a more diverse student body. Small schools, on the other hand, offer more personalized attention from professors and a close-knit community. They may also have a stronger focus on undergraduate education. Consider what environment you thrive in and what opportunities you are looking for when deciding between a large or small school.

What is the importance of accreditation when choosing an undergraduate school?

Accreditation is an important factor to consider when choosing an undergraduate school. It is a voluntary process in which independent organizations evaluate the quality and standards of a school's academic programs. Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain standards of education and that your degree will be recognized by other institutions and employers. It is important to make sure the school you choose is accredited by a reputable organization.

How can I make the most of my undergraduate experience?

To make the most of your undergraduate experience, it is important to get involved and take advantage of the opportunities available to you. Join clubs and organizations related to your interests, participate in internships and research opportunities, and take advantage of resources such as career services and academic advising. Additionally, make an effort to build relationships with professors and classmates, as they can provide valuable support and connections for your future career. Lastly, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things - this is a time for growth and exploration.

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