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I'd really like to study Biology at Columbia College and go into primary care for grad school.

Columbia is my ideal choice in all aspects: its location, resources/exposure, prestige, program, social life etc

but the thing is, i'm afraid that because Columbia really isnt OUTSTANDING in the biological field, I have less of a chance getting into a top notch grad school or even receiving the optimal education in this area.

So my question is: is it that important to focus in on my field and make my college choice based on where i can receive the best education in that field, or should i settle on ED Columbia where I'm sure the program will still be intensive (though not best of the best) and it has everything else i've ever dreamed of?

thanx for your time.

By Mosquito86 (Mosquito86) on Saturday, April 10, 2004 - 07:42 pm: Edit

Here is my take:

I am actually in your boat. I am accepted to Columbia for a major that is not necessarily famous there. I still plan to attend, though.

While coming from a school that has the better program may help in graduate school admissions, it doesn't necessarily mean Columbia is going to shut you out of top notch schools. Columbia has a great reputation overall..and I assure you, you won't get any less of a biology education at Columbia then you would at like MIT (top bio program).

As well, college is literally what you make of it. If you work hard at Columbia, get involved in internships, do research, commit yourself to good extracurriculars...you will certainly have a great shot at good grad schools.

As well, college isn't just about doing one major and getting it over with. Things like exploring other subject areas, having a great social life, utilizing all the resources that are available...that's a great deal of what college is about. Columbia's program exposes you to many subject areas..plus NYC will give you that great social life and a million resources to work with. What more can you ask for?!

It seems you love what Columbia has to offer overall..which I think counts more than just a biology program.

By Glory (Glory) on Saturday, April 10, 2004 - 10:07 pm: Edit

thanx mosquito. that was truly very helpful.

By Mosquito86 (Mosquito86) on Sunday, April 11, 2004 - 03:54 am: Edit

no prob