Compare to other midwest LACs

Masquemom
Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:48:41 +0000

DD2 has visited both Carleton and Lawrence. Both are strong in science; average ACT for Carleton=30 (28-32 mid-range) and Lawrence=29; both are on trimester systems. However, the admissions rep at Lawrence told us that most of their cross-applications are actually with the other Northfield college, St Olaf–probably due to their mutual emphasis on music.
On paper, at least, Lawrence seems to combine aspects of Carleton (science), St Olaf (music) and Macalester (high number of international students). Daughter did attend classes at Lawrence and thought that the academic quality was good.
At Carleton, we had a very enthusiastic tour guide and students seemed generally happy. The students she met at Lawrence seemed more serious and more reserved.
She will most likely apply to both schools, assuming she ever finishes her Common App essay!