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I'm interested in studying physics as an undergraduate, and thus need to figure out which college has the stronger department: Princeton or Harvard.

Instead of stories and numbers, I was wondering if anybody could tell how I could research this myself.

Which books do I buy, who do I call, which college should I visit (since the dates of the visitation programs overlap) and so forth.

By Residentevil (Residentevil) on Saturday, April 10, 2004 - 11:20 am: Edit

Just a couple of suggestions would do--I'm really lost here.

By Mzhang23 (Mzhang23) on Saturday, April 10, 2004 - 08:30 pm: Edit

Honestly, it's quite hard to differentiate between the two schools and honestly decide which school has a better department. I'm sure if the rankings came out, Princeton and Harvard would both rank near the top. It's just better to decide based on which school gives you a better fit. Furthermore, you could also get copies of the course guides and e-mail the professors and check out the courses. I'm sure there are courses you can attend at both schools. Also, try and contact students currently studying those majors.

By Brownalum (Brownalum) on Saturday, April 10, 2004 - 08:40 pm: Edit

Talk to professors at the schools you are considering.

Talk to grad students at the schools you are considering.

Talk to undergrad students at the schools you are considering.

Sit in on classes.

Finally, talk to professors at schools that you aren't considering, because they will give you an unbiased opinion.