Which pet is the one for me: a chinchilla or a rat?

Hey, ever since my rabbit passed i have been lonely and in need of a pet. :[ The only problem is I don't know what to get. Currently I have narrowed it down to two: a chinchilla or a rat. I feel that if i did decide upon a rat i would want to have a pair of them. Is this recommended? (I know you can't keep 2 males together)But I digress, can anyone with experience with these two animals tell me the pros and cons of each and the amount of work that it takes to properly care for one of these creatures? I've done a lot of research online, but I want some firsthand opinions too. I know a lot about rabbits (I'm the president of my local 4-H rabbit and small animal club) so if you could relate it to the amount of care a rabbit needs that would be helpful. Thank you for your help :]