I disagree with some of the above. These schools are equally diverse, having made significant efforts to admit student bodies with over 30% diverse and international students. Amherst is part of a cluster of colleges in its general area, so there’s a more active social scene between area colleges. Middlebury is the only school for miles, and the anchor to its beautiful New England town, so students tend to stay on campus and occasionally drive 30 minutes north to Burlington. Some people would say that Amherst students are more buttoned down (and conservative) while Midd students are more laid back (and liberal) – but those are generalizations that have floated around for years. I know great people who’ve gone to both schools.