Lehigh and Georgetown: A Look at the Rivalry

August 9, 2023
By AdmissionSight

Lehigh and Georgetown: A Look at the Rivalry

In the world of higher education, Lehigh University and Georgetown University are both well-known and respected institutions. However, the two schools also have a longstanding rivalry that dates back several decades. In this article, we’ll delve into the details and similarities between Lehigh and Georgetown to see how these two institutions stack up against one another.

Location and Campus: How Lehigh and Georgetown Differ

One of the most notable differences between Lehigh and Georgetown is their location. Lehigh is situated in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, while Georgetown can be found in the heart of Washington, D.C.

While both locations have their perks, they offer distinctly different experiences to students. Lehigh’s campus is spread out over 2,350 acres and is known for its scenic views and natural surroundings.

College students walking in the campus.

In contrast, Georgetown’s campus is much smaller, spanning just 104 acres, and is located in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Students at Georgetown have access to all the cultural attractions and entertainment options that a large city has to offer, while those at Lehigh enjoy a more rural, bucolic setting.

Another difference between the two campuses is the architecture. Lehigh’s buildings are predominantly made of red brick and have a traditional, classic look. Georgetown, on the other hand, has a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic and Romanesque Revival, giving the campus a more eclectic feel.

Academic Programs: A Comparison Between Lehigh and Georgetown

Lehigh and Georgetown both offer a range of excellent academic programs. At Lehigh, students can choose from over 90 undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, business, and the liberal arts.

Georgetown, meanwhile, is renowned for its programs in international affairs, government, and law. Both schools have an impressive faculty, with professors who are leaders in their respective fields.

Ultimately, the choice between Lehigh and Georgetown will depend on your academic interests and career goals, but students can be sure that they will receive a top-notch education at either institution.

One notable difference between the academic programs at Lehigh and Georgetown is the size of the schools. Lehigh is a smaller university, with a total undergraduate enrollment of around 5,000 students, while Georgetown has over 7,000 undergraduate students. This can impact the classroom experience, with smaller class sizes at Lehigh allowing for more individualized attention from professors.

Student Life at Lehigh vs. Georgetown: Which is Better?

Both Lehigh and Georgetown offer vibrant student communities with plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities and socialization. Lehigh has over 200 clubs and organizations, including performance groups, athletic teams, and student government.

Group of students working together and talking.

Georgetown, similarly, has over 200 clubs and organizations, including entrepreneurial groups, cultural organizations, and club sports. Students at both schools can expect to have a fulfilling and well-rounded college experience, with a range of activities and events to choose from.

However, there are some differences in the types of activities and events offered at each school. Lehigh is known for its strong Greek life presence, with over 30 fraternities and sororities on campus.

This provides students with a unique opportunity to become involved in a close-knit community and participate in philanthropic events. On the other hand, Georgetown has a strong focus on service and social justice, with many clubs and organizations dedicated to community service and activism. This allows students to engage in meaningful work and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Athletics: A Comprehensive Comparison Between Lehigh and Georgetown

As mentioned earlier, the rivalry between Lehigh and Georgetown began with football, and the two schools still maintain an intense rivalry on the playing field. Both Lehigh and Georgetown have impressive athletic programs, with a range of teams competing at the NCAA Division I level.

For Lehigh, sports like football, wrestling, and lacrosse have traditionally been strong, while Georgetown excels in sports like men’s basketball, women’s soccer, and track and field. Regardless of which school you attend, you can take pride in your school’s athletic accomplishments and enjoy the competitive spirit that surrounds sports on campus.

However, it’s not just about the sports themselves. Both Lehigh and Georgetown prioritize the well-being and development of their student-athletes. Both schools offer extensive resources for their athletes, including academic support, sports medicine, and strength and conditioning programs.

Additionally, both schools have a strong commitment to community service and encourage their athletes to give back through various volunteer opportunities. So, while the rivalry on the field may be intense, both Lehigh and Georgetown share a common goal of supporting their student-athletes and fostering a well-rounded college experience.

Notable Alumni: A Look at the Impact of Lehigh and Georgetown Graduates

Both Lehigh and Georgetown have produced a number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. At Lehigh, alumni include John D. Rockefeller and Lee Iacocca.

Georgetown can count former President Bill Clinton and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia among its graduates. Whether you’re interested in business, politics, or the arts, you can be sure that attending either institution will put you in good company with accomplished and successful individuals.

Lehigh and Georgetown have also produced notable alumni in the field of science and technology. Lehigh graduate John Bardeen was a two-time Nobel Prize winner in physics for his work on the invention of the transistor and the theory of superconductivity. Georgetown graduate Dr. Anthony Fauci is a renowned immunologist and has been a leading voice in the fight against infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and COVID-19.

Additionally, both universities have a strong tradition of producing successful athletes. Lehigh has produced several Olympic medalists, including wrestler Bobby Weaver and swimmer Frank Foss. Georgetown has a storied basketball program, with notable alumni including NBA Hall of Famers Patrick Ewing and Alonzo Mourning.

Admissions: The Differences in the Application Process for Lehigh and Georgetown

When it comes to admissions, both Lehigh and Georgetown are highly selective. At Lehigh, the admissions process includes submitting standardized test scores, transcripts, and essays, while Georgetown requires similar materials but also offers an optional alumni interview.

Close up of students smiling at the camera.

Admissions at both schools are competitive, so it’s important to put your best foot forward and showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments throughout the application process.

One major difference between the admissions process at Lehigh and Georgetown is the emphasis placed on extracurricular activities. While both schools value well-rounded applicants, Georgetown places a greater emphasis on extracurricular involvement and leadership. This means that applicants to Georgetown should highlight their involvement in clubs, sports, community service, and other activities outside of the classroom.

Another difference between the two schools is the availability of early decision and early action options. Lehigh offers both early decision and early action, while Georgetown only offers early action.

Early decision is a binding agreement, meaning that if a student is accepted, they must attend the school. Early action is non-binding, allowing students to apply to multiple schools and make a decision later. It’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

Financial Aid and Scholarships: Which School Offers More Opportunities?

Financial aid and scholarships are both important factors to consider when choosing a college. Fortunately, both Lehigh and Georgetown are committed to providing their students with financial assistance.

Lehigh offers need-based aid, as well as merit-based scholarships for outstanding students. Georgetown similarly offers need-based aid, as well as a range of scholarships and grants for both undergraduate and graduate students. It’s worth researching the financial aid options available at both schools to determine which will be the best fit for your specific financial needs.

It’s important to note that financial aid and scholarships are not the only factors to consider when choosing a college. Other factors such as location, campus culture, academic programs, and extracurricular activities should also be taken into account.

Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that the amount of financial aid and scholarships offered can vary from year to year, so it’s important to stay informed and up-to-date on the options available.

Campus Tours and Visits: What to Expect When Visiting Lehigh or Georgetown

Visiting a college campus is an important part of the college search process, and both Lehigh and Georgetown offer comprehensive tours and visits for prospective students. At Lehigh, visitors can take a tour of the campus and attend an information session led by an admissions representative, while Georgetown offers campus tours and information sessions, as well as class visits and overnight, stays with current students. Whether you’re planning a visit to Lehigh or Georgetown, you can expect to have a tailored and informative experience, designed to help you get a feel for what life on campus is really like.

In addition to the standard campus tours and information sessions, both Lehigh and Georgetown offer specialized tours and events for prospective students. Lehigh offers engineering tours, where visitors can learn more about the university’s engineering programs and facilities, while Georgetown offers tours specifically for transfer students. These specialized tours provide a more in-depth look at the programs and opportunities available at each university.

Furthermore, both Lehigh and Georgetown have beautiful campuses with a rich history and unique architecture. Visitors can expect to see stunning buildings and landmarks, such as Lehigh’s Gothic-style buildings and Georgetown’s Healy Hall. Additionally, both universities are located in vibrant cities with plenty of cultural and recreational opportunities for students to explore.

Employment Opportunities After Graduation: A Comparison of Lehigh and Georgetown

Ultimately, one of the key reasons to attend college is to prepare for a successful career after graduation. Both Lehigh and Georgetown have strong career services offices that provide students with resources and guidance for post-graduation job searches.

a young man shakes someone's hand after being interviewed

Despite their different locations and academic programs, both schools have impressive employment outcomes, with graduates going on to work in a range of fields and industries. Whether you’re interested in working in finance, politics, or the arts, you can be sure that attending either institution will set you up for success.

However, there are some notable differences between the two schools when it comes to employment opportunities. Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has a strong focus on engineering and technology, with many graduates going on to work in the tech industry.

On the other hand, Georgetown University, located in Washington D.C., has a strong emphasis on government and public policy, with many graduates pursuing careers in politics and public service.

Faculty and Staff: A Look at the Differences in Teaching Styles at Both Institutions

At both Lehigh and Georgetown, faculty and staff are committed to providing students with a high-quality education. However, there are some key differences in teaching styles between the two institutions.

Female teacher talking to her students.

At Lehigh, professors emphasize hands-on learning and encourage students to take an active role in their own education. Georgetown, meanwhile, places a greater emphasis on discussion and debate, with professors using a Socratic approach to teaching. Both teaching styles have their benefits, and students can be sure that they will receive a challenging and engaging education at either institution.

One of the ways in which Lehigh and Georgetown differ in their teaching styles is in their use of technology. At Lehigh, professors often incorporate technology into their lessons, using tools such as online simulations and virtual labs to enhance the learning experience.

Georgetown, on the other hand, places less emphasis on technology and instead focuses on developing critical thinking and analytical skills through traditional classroom discussions and debates.

Social Scene: Comparing the Social Life of Students at Lehigh and Georgetown

College is a time for socializing and making lifelong connections, and both Lehigh and Georgetown offer unique and engaging social scenes. At Lehigh, students enjoy a tight-knit community feel, with clubs and organizations providing plenty of opportunities for fun and connection.

Georgetown, meanwhile, offers a vibrant social scene in the middle of one of the world’s most exciting cities, with a range of cultural and entertainment options available. The social scene at both schools is shaped in many ways by their respective locations, and students can decide which environment is the best fit for them.

However, it’s important to note that the social scene at each school can also vary depending on individual interests and personalities. For example, Lehigh may be more appealing to students who prefer a smaller, more intimate social setting, while Georgetown may be a better fit for those who thrive in a bustling, urban environment.

Conclusion

Overall, the Lehigh-Georgetown rivalry may be a longstanding one, but both institutions have much to offer their students. Whether you’re interested in a rural or urban setting, a challenging academic program, or a vibrant social scene, you can be sure that attending either institution will provide you with a unique and fulfilling college experience.

Ultimately, the choice between Lehigh and Georgetown will depend on your individual preferences and goals, but students can be sure that both schools will prepare them for success in whichever direction they choose to go.

Segue to AdmissionSight

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