Alabama vs. Lafayette

sophocles
Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:42:45 +0000

feenotype: It’s reassuring to learn that the class sizes are not as big as I expected. The freshman lecture size of 60 is reasonable for a large school.

mom2c: Thanks for the heads-up about the football ticket sets. I would consider it a huge accomplishment for Alabama if my son becomes a football convert!

momreads: The number of internship options and possible offers, particularly for freshman, speaks well of Alabama students. The OOS summer internship options seem promising, particularly if my S would happen to find one closer to home. I like the anecdote about Dean Sharpe inviting your son and his girlfriend to his home for Easter dinner: that speaks volumes about the personalized attention I was asking about in my post. I also appreciate your addressing the cultural difference of the deep South. It helps in his transition that southern culture is genteel, friendly, and hospitable. In addition, the financial aspect is a factor because he does plan on getting a doctorate, a heavy expense assuming no graduate assistantship. Thus we are grateful for this gift that Alabama is giving our family. The Outdoor Action is a good idea for forming initial friendships.

RobD: Easton would be an easier commute compared to Alabama from Western PA although we have family in NJ too. Climate differences are not too much of an issue for S but the current regional economic situation is certainly an important factor.

Sea_tide: Your student perspective is invaluable. Reassuring to know that kids from small high schools have found their niche in Alabama and are enjoying the school. I also appreciate your insight on the social scene at the school. We had heard about the big Greek presence at Alabama and my S was not thrilled about it. However, it looks like the campus is diverse enough that there are other kids with his interests and his personality (quiet and studious) that he should be able to feel comfortable with initially. I’m sure that once he becomes more comfortable with his adjustment, he will also benefit from being around others who are not like him.

I truly appreciate the honesty and generosity of everyone’s input. This has got to be the most active college site on CC! With the tremendous amount of information and support from this thread, it is becoming more difficult for me to be impartial in letting my son decide between the two schools. My original question about the faculty’s concern and accessibility for the students has been unanimously answered by all posters. In addition, it does seem that other kids with my son’s personality and/or OOS small-school background thrive in Alabama (and the deep South) and are pleased with their college experiences. Financially, Alabama is a no-brainer. As a plus, the internship, job, and graduate school prospects seem promising. And lastly, this Alabama football is indeed legendary. If it is enough to convert non-sports fans, then there is hope for my S. Will seriously look into getting those set of tickets!