<p>My daughter is interested in philosophy. She thought that Swarthmore would have more of a quirky-intellectual community (which is what she likes). One of the most important factors for her were small classes and close relationships with faculty. When she went to visit, she felt at home there, even though it was in February and seemed to be -40 degrees outside.</p>
<p>Does she ever wonder if Stanford might have been a better place for her? She did at first. I am not sure, if she still does sometimes. I guess it’s the price you pay for having to chose between 2 awesome schools. She is happy at Swarthmore, and from what I know, I am pretty sure that she made the right decision. Her brother is at Stanford, and is very happy there. But they are two very different people - he has no need what so ever to be friends with professors, and does not mind large lecture classes.</p>