<p>Hi everyone, this question has been on my mind for quite some time now and after bouncing back and forth for a countless number of times I’ve decided to finally seek some help here so I hope you can help!</p>
<p>I currently attend the University of Rochester as an aspiring brain and cognitive sciences major - but recently I have been tempted to apply for a transfer to Oberlin College. The reasons for my wanting to transfer may or may not be compelling enough to get me in but then again, I’m not even sure if I can convince myself that I have a good reason for wanting to in the first place. So here’s some info and I apologize for making it so long >< :</p>
<p>Why Oberlin College?
-the intellectual atmosphere among students
-the close interactions with faculty not as easily achieved at a research university
-the progressive/liberal culture
-high student awareness and activism
-emphasis on undergraduate intellectual growth
-dedication to providing 100% financial need
-Strong Neuroscience/Brain and Cognitive Sciences Department</p>
<p>What’s wrong with UR?
-small research university (only ~4000 undergrads), no TAs teaching classes,but still has the feeling of faculty being more interested in research rather than teaching
-for the most part, lack of an intellectual atmosphere (there isn’t the passion for learning that I believe is key to a good education)
-lack of awareness about what goes on outside the borders of the campus
-somewhat lack of prestige (not so big an issue, but an issue nonetheless)</p>
<p>So what’s stopping me from going for it?
-Full financial aid package from the university (I pay nothing)
-Recently won 4year scholarship exclusively for UR students that provides career and academic mentoring throughout my undergrad years. (this is a biggie - especially the mentoring) (David T. Kearns Scholarship)
-Great friends and a few great professors so far that I’ve started to get to know
-Strong Neuroscience/Brain and Cognitive Sciences Department
-Transferring is a big transition
-Very diverse student body (not just racially, but socioeconomically as well/not sure if I’ll fit in at Oberlin)
-I’ve already taken alot of courses here, accepted AP credit for gen chem and taking Organic Chemistry at the moment.
-UR has an enormous med center, i mean ENORMOUS. (Largest one in central NY and highly ranked/top accreditation)</p>
<p>I’ve taken alot of initative in my education so far - taking competitive classes (for a freshman anyway), volunteering, job experience, clubs and planning to study abroad for two semesters at UR (there’s a exchange program for the University of Sussex that allows me to take courses towards my major abroad) - so I’m pretty sure I’ll do well here…</p>
<p>The problem is, I think that as a student at research university (a small and somewhat personal one, but a university nonetheless), the way that I am learning now - listening and taking notes in big lecture halls and poring over books in the library - on top of the lack of an intellectually simulating student body isn’t the best preparation for a life dedicated to learning ( I want to be a neuroscientist someday) nor will it help me to mature socially and be able to express myself confidently and professionally…Or am I wrong?</p>
<p>People tell me all the time that college is what you make of it and I’ve been making the effort to make the most out of my experience, but the liberal arts college had always been my first choice (I got waitlisted to Obie the first time). Would I be just as well off sticking with UR or (from what you can tell) would a transfer be worthwhile?</p>
<p>Thanks for any and all input - I know in the end its up to me but I’d really appreciate your opinions!</p>
<p>PS - I will be visiting Oberlin and staying there for up to 4 days (i got in touch with a HS grad who goes there) to get a feel for it, just another bit of info</p>