Hey,
Many threads on CC talk about how important “fit” is in the HYP type schools’ admission process. So I was wondering what is Princeton’s “fit” as opposed to another school like Harvard. I understand from reading old posts that both of these schools have a “fit” that varies extremely, but in what way. In other words: what is the difference between the type of student that Princeton looks for as opposed to the type of student Harvard would look for.
Thanks So Much.
This is a super difficult question to answer…if anyone on CC knew what Princeton’s “fit” was I think it would be an incredibly marketable piece of knowledge. I think fit in the context of Princeton has more to do with the student population as a whole - which is remarkably diverse. You will find people from all walks of life and perspectives and interests and talents.
Rather than looking to see what Princeton or Harvard are looking for, why not look at your own gifts and see what schools (and there are lots of amazing ones beyond the Ivys) might fit you best? Google, visit, talk to existing students and alumni. Don’t try to fit into their mold. See which ones fit best into yours!
People who honestly are in that situation should attend the admitted students functions. For PTon, it’s Princeton Preview Days (Apr 13 or 28). Others: Yale’s Bulldog Days: April 20-22, Harvard Visitas: April 25-27. These are only examples. Go and let the colleges woo you – talk genuinely with students and get their impression. But to say Pton and Harvard vary WIDELY is an exaggeration, IMHO. Both are tremendously well resourced, populated by extremely high achieving people. Beyond this, generalizations serve little purpose. For instance, Yalies believe that Harvardians are too stuffy & competitive and believe themselves to be extremely happy and in love with Yale (Joke: What do Harvard and Yale students have in common? They both hate Harvard). Harvard kids may look at Yalies and Tigers as – too bad you aren’t at Harvard. PTon builds great loyalty among its students and don’t care what Yalies and Harvardians think. But these are extremely gross generalizations. There are MANY more similarities than differences.
At this point, you’re still a HS freshman. To start wondering about PTon and Harvard differences are something you’ll hopefully be lucky enough to consider in April 2018.