HELP plz: dartmouth vs berkeley

BigGreenJen
Thu, 13 Apr 2006 21:41:13 +0000

Hi, I am also a California resident and my college decision came down to between Dartmouth and Berkeley. I liked Berkeley’s vibrant atmosphere and social scene. I also liked the fact that there are so many courses and majors to choose from, and many renowned professors teach there. Berkeley has a wealth of student groups and unique clubs – I knew I would find something that would fit my every interest. For me, Berkeley would also mean that I would be closer to my family and high school friends.

However, when I went to visit Dartmouth, I realized what a difference small classes and a tight-knit community can make. I didn’t make it to Dimensions, but everyone I met was so friendly and ready to convince me why Dartmouth was the place for me. Now that I go to Dartmouth, I love it. I run into people I know every day, but the campus never seems claustrophobic. Almost everyone at Berkeley is from California, but at Dartmouth people are from all over the country. I have learned so much about life in other states just from talking to my friends.

Most of my classes have consisted of 20-30 students, and the professors are very available after class. My intro government class this term only has 100 students, and my prof is so animated and clear I never get bored. I have had no TAs, and all my professor grade my work and give feedback themselves.

Hanover isn’t the most amazing town, but there are several diverse cuisines served here and a fun movie theater. Dartmouth really makes a special effort to keep students entertained here – the Hop and Loew theaters show movies almost every night and Programming Board brings comedians, trivial pursuit nights, and even some guy called The Regurgitator. Fun stuff, believe me. There are always interesting and moving lectures to attend, and politicians always make a special point to stop by on their campaign trail (I can’t wait for the presidential primary!).

As for reputation, hardly anyone I’ve met on the east coast applied to Berkeley, let alone have heard of it. Dartmouth gives you the best of both worlds – it is a member of the Ivy League and is also extremely undergrad focused. Many corporations and business firms come recruit here. Just yesterday my friend went to a mock interview hosted by JP Morgan. I think you would learn a lot at Dartmouth and be well prepared for a future in whatever field you choose.

Good luck!