Barnard vs. Wellesley and Smith

Shadowhunter
Sun, 27 Mar 2011 04:32:56 +0000

Hey everyone :).
I’m kind of in the dilemma of choosing a college (this great dilemma I am so grateful to have the chance to be in). At this point I’m sort of leaning towards Barnard with Wellesley very close by and I love Smith too (mainly because of STRIDE). I would be really grateful if any students or parents could share insight on Barnard to help me make my decision.

I’m interested in Biology (genetic engineering & biotech) and Creative Writing. I would probably like to have theater and journalism as ECs so I would love it if someone could share their experience with those things at Barnard.

Since it’s NYC, there’s also the safety factor to consider.

Also, from what I’ve read Barnard seems to be a more close-knit, exclusive circle within Columbia with all of Columbia’s facilities which is why I liked it better than Columbia itself. What I don’t get is why USNews insists on ranking Barnard separately because it is an undergraduate college of Columbia. College Confidential forums do make it seem like Columbia College students look down upon Barnard girls but I’m guessing it couldn’t really be like that or the colleges wouldn’t be so closely intertwined.

How is the Barnard graduate school placement?Is Wellesley’s better?Is Smith’s STRIDE the best work-study you could get?

Thank you SO much to anyone who replies!