Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:it's become popular in recent years with DMV area kids, maybe because Michigan is so hard to get into and Wisconsin has the same feel. DS mentioned it as a possible place he might apply, but we're not encouraging it. I don't get why a kid from another part of the country would go to a big state school somewhere else, unless you have or want to create some tie to that area.

Actually Madison is a better college town, has the lakes and is generally more beautiful and lively than Ann Arbor.

This. By a long shot.

The winters are actually not bad. It is sunny except when it is snowing. It isn't like Chicago, Detroit or Cleveland where there is lake effect clouds and snow. Sure, it gets cold, but it isn't dreary.

Anonymous wrote:it's become popular in recent years with DMV area kids, maybe because Michigan is so hard to get into and Wisconsin has the same feel. DS mentioned it as a possible place he might apply, but we're not encouraging it. I don't get why a kid from another part of the country would go to a big state school somewhere else, unless you have or want to create some tie to that area.

Actually Madison is a better college town, has the lakes and is generally more beautiful and lively than Ann Arbor.

My partner graduated from Wisconsin and loved it. Still talks about the friendly people, great school spirit, sports games, huge alumni network and good classes.

My partner was not a big drinker but felt like the parties were an outlet to have fun, did not feel pressured to drink excessively.

The one thing that I could not do is the winters. Suggest you visit in Jan/Feb. I may be in a small minority but four years of that would have been bad for my health, I chose somewhere warmer.

Madison is super strong in the life sciences. There are many different choices of biology related departments/majors. Sounds like a good fit.

Wisconsin is a great school academically and socially. Its biggest downside is an almost complete lack of diversity. It has practically zero AA students.

Anonymous wrote:it's become popular in recent years with DMV area kids, maybe because Michigan is so hard to get into and Wisconsin has the same feel. DS mentioned it as a possible place he might apply, but we're not encouraging it. I don't get why a kid from another part of the country would go to a big state school somewhere else, unless you have or want to create some tie to that area.

we can afford it, kid isn't real enthused about our state school options (UMD), she wants the big school experience, and also likes the idea of going to school in a different part of the country- feels that if you're gonna up and move across the country, college is a really good time to do it. Why not?

Anonymous wrote:it's become popular in recent years with DMV area kids, maybe because Michigan is so hard to get into and Wisconsin has the same feel. DS mentioned it as a possible place he might apply, but we're not encouraging it. I don't get why a kid from another part of the country would go to a big state school somewhere else, unless you have or want to create some tie to that area.

Big state schools are still typically cheaper than privates to attend, all things being equal. Big quality state schools like Wisconsin are few and far between on the east coast.

Wisconsin is a great school. I think it’s great your DD is looking to leave here. Wisconsin is a true college experience and great education.

Madison great. My kid is applying too and would be happy there.

PS. Take Indiana off your list. Sucks.

Anonymous wrote:Does she like drinking?

Do you have kids?

it's become popular in recent years with DMV area kids, maybe because Michigan is so hard to get into and Wisconsin has the same feel. DS mentioned it as a possible place he might apply, but we're not encouraging it. I don't get why a kid from another part of the country would go to a big state school somewhere else, unless you have or want to create some tie to that area.

Anonymous wrote:Does she like drinking?

Oh go away! Wisconsin is a great school that has a place for everyone, including those who are not interested in partying. I went there, and it was fantastic. Top notch education and amenities, beautiful campus, great sports, endless activities, and interesting people from all over the country and the world. I can’t recommend it enough. I think that it provides one of the best college experiences in the country. Take a visit and fall in love with it just like everyone else does!

Does she like drinking?

thoughts on this school for an east coast student? DD has never been to Wisconsin so that's a slight concern. Hoping to major in something science related (thinking bio), likely on a pre-health track. Has Michigan on her list, but wants something with a slightly easier admit. Also considering Indiana, UMD, Pitt, UDel, Syracuse. Likes sports, outgoing, hopes to join a sorority.