2 answers
Ruilin
Student
Prospect, Kentucky
1
Question
Updated
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Is vanderbilt or emory better for a music major on a pre-med track?
I have been accepted to both, and Emory has offered half tuition. But Vanderbilt is a lot closer to home, and is ranked higher.
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2 answers
Catherine H
Digital Nomad
20
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Both Vanderbilt University and Emory University are excellent choices for a music major on a pre-med track, but they offer different strengths.
Pre-Med Strengths:
Vanderbilt: Has a top-ranked pre-med program with strong advising, high medical school acceptance rates, and access to Vanderbilt University Medical Center—one of the best hospitals in the U.S.
Emory: Also has a top-tier pre-med program, and it is closely affiliated with Emory University Hospital and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing strong research and clinical opportunities.
Music Program:
Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music is stronger than Emory's music program and offers a Bachelor of Music (BM), which is a more intensive music degree.
Emory’s music program is smaller and more focused on a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in music, which may be better for flexibility with a pre-med track.
Factors to Consider:
Cost: Emory has offered half tuition, which could make it significantly cheaper.
Location: Vanderbilt is closer to home for you, which may be a factor for support and convenience.
Ranking: Vanderbilt is slightly higher ranked overall, but both schools have excellent reputations.
Verdict?
If saving money is a priority, Emory might be the better option.
If you want the strongest music program, Vanderbilt is the clear choice.
If medical research opportunities matter most, Emory has a slight edge due to its connections with the CDC.
Both schools will prepare you well for medical school, so the decision should come down to cost, music program strength, and personal preference.
Pre-Med Strengths:
Vanderbilt: Has a top-ranked pre-med program with strong advising, high medical school acceptance rates, and access to Vanderbilt University Medical Center—one of the best hospitals in the U.S.
Emory: Also has a top-tier pre-med program, and it is closely affiliated with Emory University Hospital and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), providing strong research and clinical opportunities.
Music Program:
Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music is stronger than Emory's music program and offers a Bachelor of Music (BM), which is a more intensive music degree.
Emory’s music program is smaller and more focused on a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in music, which may be better for flexibility with a pre-med track.
Factors to Consider:
Cost: Emory has offered half tuition, which could make it significantly cheaper.
Location: Vanderbilt is closer to home for you, which may be a factor for support and convenience.
Ranking: Vanderbilt is slightly higher ranked overall, but both schools have excellent reputations.
Verdict?
If saving money is a priority, Emory might be the better option.
If you want the strongest music program, Vanderbilt is the clear choice.
If medical research opportunities matter most, Emory has a slight edge due to its connections with the CDC.
Both schools will prepare you well for medical school, so the decision should come down to cost, music program strength, and personal preference.
Saint P
SongWriter and Creative writer
59
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Saint’s Answer
Hi Ruilin!
Congrats on getting into both schools that’s a huge accomplishment!
Vanderbilt and Emory are both fantastic choices, so it really comes down to what matters most to you.
If being closer to home would give you peace of mind or make it easier to stay grounded during the pre-med grind, Vanderbilt might be the better fit. The Blair School of Music is well-respected, and the school’s overall ranking could give you a slight edge down the line though that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
On the other hand, Emory offering half tuition is a big deal. Less debt going into med school can seriously reduce stress later on. Plus, Emory’s strong science programs and access to major hospitals and research opportunities are a big bonus for any pre-med student.
So ask yourself would you feel more supported being close to home, or are you more excited about what Emory has to offer (especially with that scholarship)?
Either way, you’ve got two great paths ahead. Your passion, commitment, and goals will carry you far no matter where you land.
Let me know if you want help comparing anything else I’m happy to dive deeper!
You’ve got this!
Saint
Congrats on getting into both schools that’s a huge accomplishment!
Vanderbilt and Emory are both fantastic choices, so it really comes down to what matters most to you.
If being closer to home would give you peace of mind or make it easier to stay grounded during the pre-med grind, Vanderbilt might be the better fit. The Blair School of Music is well-respected, and the school’s overall ranking could give you a slight edge down the line though that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
On the other hand, Emory offering half tuition is a big deal. Less debt going into med school can seriously reduce stress later on. Plus, Emory’s strong science programs and access to major hospitals and research opportunities are a big bonus for any pre-med student.
So ask yourself would you feel more supported being close to home, or are you more excited about what Emory has to offer (especially with that scholarship)?
Either way, you’ve got two great paths ahead. Your passion, commitment, and goals will carry you far no matter where you land.
Let me know if you want help comparing anything else I’m happy to dive deeper!
You’ve got this!
Saint