jojodevka

Next weekend, both Smith and Wellesley are having open houses for Juniors. Now, i've been advised to just go to one for the whole day rather than rushing to get to both (You can disagree if you like, i'd gladly hear it). But now the question arises about which one to go to, if I'm only going to one. What do you guys think? Which open house should be better/more informative/more parent friendly? Which school tracks expressed interest more?

(cross posted in the Wellesley forum)

SmithieandProud

I think it will be hard for anyone in either forum to give you an objective recommendation, since I highly doubt that parents or students in either place went to both the Smith and Wellesley open houses. And of course, it's impossible for people outside of the admissions offices at the schools to know how much they track expressed interest (my guess is neither school really tracks it that closely through open houses, as the most interested candidates aren't neccessarily equatable to the candidates that can attend the open house).

I agree that it's not a good idea to go to both, it's a good hour and forty minute drive between them if you're really hauling and don't hit too much traffic (call it a solid 2 hours plus with parking and finding your way to the right place).

Go to the one you think you have the most questions about that can be best served in an "open house" format (i.e. listening to panel discussions, talking to profs if they're available, etc.). Personally, I think a private visit is always a better idea than attending cattle call open houses. You'll get more personalised attention, be able to do an interview (the true sign of interest), and get a tour that's not packed with other nervous juniors and parents.

jojodevka

Thanks, Smithie. One of the reasons I'm leaning towards Smith at the moment is because I REALLY want to visit Northampton. I've heard such great things! Also, the Smith website actually lists whats going to happen at the open house, rather than the vague statements the Wellesley one gives. I'll be back to visit both in the fall, although I am a bit disappointed that neither gives tours in May-June.

borgin

Smith definitely offers tours in May and June (but not on Saturdays).

Smith College: Scheduling a Campus Visit

SmithieandProud

Er, call ahead if you're coming to visit in may/june. There aren't as many tour guides available (in fact, during exams and commencement there may be none) , so its best to check.

Noho is a cool town, you should check it out!

jojodevka

Yea, I can't really visit on weekdays.... The 'rents work and I can't miss school.

borgin

If it helps, Wellesley does offer tours on Saturdays through Mid-May (I didn't look for the date that Saturday tours end).

Visit Us

Bustles

I never registered for spring open campus but I will be at Smith anyway (visiting a friend). Will they let me come?

SmithieandProud

For sure. They're not going to turn you away, and while there is a check/in and stuff, you could easily just show up for things. I never check to see if hte people in my tour group have the name tag or bag or whatever, they won't really be scanning.

borgin

You can just show up and register that day. Fewer people show up than register -- your body won't throw things off at all.

Bustles

k, thanks

jojodevka

By the way, I just wanted to let everyone know that I did end up visiting Smith, and I loved it

Not only is the campus beautiful and diverse, but Northampton is absolutely charming! And of course the admissions staff were very nice and welcoming.

IreneAdler

I had a great visit when I went last fall! Did you get to do an overnight, or were you just there for the day?