College Decision

wanderlust15
Mon, 28 Mar 2016 15:24:25 +0000

I got into Whitman and Willamette too, waitlisted at Carleton. I have visited all of them and am currently deciding between Whitman and one other school. While I’m certainly not an expert on these schools, I can tell you a little bit about my impressions of them.

Willamette: I liked Willamette, but for me the location was a big downside. Coming from a safe small town, downtown Salem felt pretty sketchy. The campus is definitely not enclosed and I’ve read reports of some safety incidents. However, if you are interested in political science the location is a big plus, as the school is right across from the Capitol. The drama program is also supposed to be outstanding. If you are interested in Asian culture, the affiliation with the Tokyo International University of America is a plus. Food was good, dorms and gym felt pretty run-down. Probably not as rigorous/intellectual as some other schools on your list.

Carleton: Like I said, I was waitlisted here, but I’m hoping to get off the list! Northfield is a darling little town, and Carleton is one of my favorite campuses. As you’ve probably heard a million times, students are “quirky.” Strong traditions and sense of campus community due to rural location. VERY rigorous academics, with the fast-paced trimester system. Not sure where you’re from, but cold winters could be an issue. (I know they are for me!)

Whitman: I’m pretty sure I’m going to Whitman. I have two friends who are currently there, and they are LOVING their experience. Absolutely gorgeous East Coast-style campus, but it is in the middle of nowhere. (They’re not kidding about the wheatfields!) Small classes, great academics, close contact with professors. Student body tends to be more outdoorsy, but there’s also a good theatre program. Close-knit community due to the small size. Interesting environmental studies interdisciplinary majors, if you’re interested in that.

Macalester: I didn’t apply, but I did visit. Good if being in the city is what you want, but again, the campus didn’t feel very safe at all (very open). International emphasis. Students weren’t very friendly at all (surprising for Minnesota). Architecture is very eclectic, but I liked it. If you are looking for a tight residential community focused around a campus, probably not the best as the guides and admissions office emphasized how much students go “into the city.” VERY liberal as well (not sure of your political views, this might matter to some people.)

Hope this helps! You’ve got some great schools on that list. Let me know if you have any more questions about these schools I can answer.