<p>When D (2013 admit) and I visited Smith, we loved everything there. Smith is truly a very special place. </p>
<p>However when it came time for the final decision on schools, the budget crisis at Smith swayed our decision toward another school. </p>
<p>As noted in the Apr 23 Sophian: "Students gathered in Weinstein auditorium on Wednesday, April 15 to voice their opinions about the proposed budget plan, with a high turnout indicating their level of concern…Despite the widespread impact of the cuts, “I want to emphasize that the plan is a plan,” said Christ. “It’s not a decision to make all the cuts.” She foresees that between $20 and 22 million of the proposed $30 million will actually be cut.</p>
<p>One long-term concern is the rising cost of attending Smith, with next year’s combined tuition and room and board surpassing $50,000. The cost in 15 years is projected to be $100,000 per year."<br>
<a href=“http://media.www.smithsophian.com/media/storage/paper587/news/2009/04/23/News/Students.Express.Concern.At.Forum.On.Budget.Cuts-3720942.shtml[/url]”>http://media.www.smithsophian.com/media/storage/paper587/news/2009/04/23/News/Students.Express.Concern.At.Forum.On.Budget.Cuts-3720942.shtml</a></p>
<p>The proposed closing of a library, faculty layoffs, reduction of faculty benefits, impact upon public safety, and the concern over increases in tuition forced us into another direction. </p>
<p>Smith is such a beautiful place and wonderful school. We so much wish conditions had been different.</p>