<p>My S is a junior at Swat and loves it, although he has commented on many of the same cons listed in this thread, although not with the same ‘enthusiasm.’ (!) When the happiness level is high overall, then the cons don’t take on so much importance. Most of Swarthmore’s shortcomings are due to its small size, I think, and almost exclusive focus on academics. While the academic facilities are top-notch, the athletic facilities are old and the dorms are a bit shaky. (My S had mice in his dorm room his first year, then last year lived in a basement room with wet carpet and mildew, which was only eliminated when we purchased a room dehumidifier, which I don’t think should have been our financial responsibility). Sharples food is greasy and not particularly flavorful, but what else is new with college food? This year, he’s off campus, cooking for himself, and loving it. You go to Swat for the coursework and close interactions with faculty (my S has weekly dinners at profs’ houses, emails profs back and forth regularly, and office hours are extended and loose, basically whenever the prof is around, and this is true I think for most (all?) students, not just my S). Guess this post isn’t really on topic anymore (“cons”). The workload is heavy (he’s in Honors) but still gets to Philly regularly, and is very active in extracurriculars. Still, I wouldn’t recommend going there if you don’t love to study and learn – driven by it. If you’re interested in the more social aspects of collegiate life, I think you’ll be unhappy.</p>