College choice

[Shark Bait]

For a while now I’ve wanted to study marine biology, and as a result I applied to colleges that offer this as a major and it has come down to two choices. The University of Tampa and University of North Carolina Wilmington, I have been accepted to both and can not decide which one. Both have their own attractions and I’m fairly certain what I “should” do. Here is a list of their pros and cons it would help out if someone could give just a bit of advice.

First off UNCW has the 5th best marine biology program in the nation that is why I “should” go there, however the program has to be applied to after the first two years. Also UNCW will cost about twice as much as UT which can be covered but still it is a factor. Finally UNCW is a larger state school and that’s not quite what I would like.

University of Tampa on the other hand does not have as good a marine bio program but it is still very well respected, also you are able to enter the program and declare it as your major immediately. UT will cost about half as much AND they have offered me admittance to a specialized program and a $6000 per year scholarship which can easily be renewed. The next issue is location UT is less than a mile from a really beautiful aquarium where there is a large amount of shark research currently being conducted, I would hope to get at least a volunteer position there. UNCW on the other hand is near almost nothing. Finally I like the idea of going to a smaller school at UT I would probably receive more one on one time with teachers, and no class is bigger than about 50 students.

So if anyone has any advice or ideas on this I’m completely willing to listen it would be great to hear what people have to say.

[The Wookiee]

Oh dude, no contest. Go to the Florida one. They're giving you money. And from what it sounds like, you're more likely to be able to enter into your chosen field at UT.

[Alyrium Denryle]

Shark Bait... Go to Tampa...

[Straha]

UT sounds best.

Though I would caution against being so gung-ho about definatley being a Marine Bio major. Your major/interests could change in the future and it's best not to commit yourself to one path too early.

[Alyrium Denryle]

UT sounds best.

Though I would caution against being so gung-ho about definatley being a Marine Bio major. Your major/interests could change in the future and it's best not to commit yourself to one path too early.

His chosen major has been his chosen major for many many years...