| AC - we've messaged before so you know my feelings about Saint Mary's. The two schools are very different yet their shared history will forever link the two communities. Each does an outstanding job fulfilling their mission. SMC's mission happens to be educating women so it's smaller and less well known. Our story is similar to westcoast in that my daughter has a terrific group of friends at both schools.
Yes - you can attend games, try out for various musical groups, work for The Observer, and take a class at ND if it works with your schedule. I don't think anyone can answer if being in the same community as your dream school will haunt you. I can tell you that the academics at Saint Mary's attract highly qualified students including those who 1) Applied to SMC with no regard to ND (We've met many and that list includes my oldest). 2) Waitlisted at ND and chose SMC 3) Rejected at ND and chose SMC 4) Accepted at ND, but chose SMC. In our experience many students that were strongly interested in ND enjoy being part of the ND/SMC/HC community. It truly is a best of both worlds situation.
Some questions to ask yourself: Do they offer the major you are interested in? Smaller college = less majors and choices. Did you visit and get a feel for the campus, professors, and students? Professors all four years and class size were a strong consideration for us. Is the winter weather a factor? Is it okay that you are not in a downtown/city area? Can you picture yourself living there for four years?
My only advice is to put the rejection behind you and move on to a school that wants you - whether that is Saint Mary's or one of your other choices. You have a bright future whatever school you decide to attend. Best wishes to you! |