astromom

What would it be like to attend Barnard but major in something at Columbia (astrophysics)? My D is not interested in applying to Columbia, but visited and liked Barnard. She seems to be leaning toward LACs, although she still has a couple of universities on her list. She is interesting in continuing to dance (as a nonmajor), which is a strong program at Barnard.

Will it feel disjointed to to have to take so many classes at Columbia? Will she miss out on a lot of the benefits of attending an LAC (smaller community; getting to know one's professors)? I've picked up the (not well researched) impression that Columbia is not known for its undergraduate focus.

I can see how the access to Columbia's resources for Barnard students is getting the best of both worlds, but maybe this plan would try to take that too far and lose something in the process?

mythmom

No, it will be fine. My D just graduated. She had two majors -- one at Barnard, one at Columbia. If that's what your D wants to do, there will be no problem.

And kids at Columbia major at Barnard too (architecture, drama, urban studies, dance.)

astromom

Thanks, mythmom.

churchmusicmom

I agree with mythmom. It should not be a problem.

dolphins3636

No, it's fine. I'm majoring in Linguistics and practically ALL of my classes are at Columbia but I don't feel like I'm missing any part of Barnard. There's still a wonderful Barnard community outside of class, and you don't lose that just because your classes are on the other side of Broadway.