<p>Hi Confucius06. The student life at New College is very student-driven. It’s a no-frills sort of place: it lacks some of the fancy things that similar colleges offer. Instead, there are student-run themed parties every Friday and Saturday called “walls.” Three times a year, there is a huge Palm Court Party, also themed, where it is typical for alumnae/i to attend. Sunday through Thursday are typically quiet on campus. There are no sports or greek life, so academics are the focus. </p>
<p>I studied Psychology and Philosophy, and both were great. My experience there was transformative. I went from being a relatively unmotivated high school student to having to step up my game just to stay afloat at New College. By the time I graduated, I did well enough to get into all of the graduate schools I applied to. It’s the type of place where it’s cool to be smart, and where a large proportion of the students are serious about going to a top graduate program. That environment was one in which I thrived, and one in which there was often just as much learning outside of the classroom as there was during class. </p>
<p>Compared to other schools, New College students are more liberal, more tolerant of deviant lifestyles, and more likely to want to go to graduate school. Though the campus isn’t luxurious, it’s really nice if you’re into the Florida thing. I’d say it’s the only liberal arts college of its kind in a place with truly spectacular weather. The faculty are accessible, and, by virtue of the contract and thesis systems, it’s almost required that one develop a close relationship with them. </p>
<p>But based on what I’ve read about Reed, it seems like the schools are similar. My brother went to Oberlin, and that was also in the same mold. If I had to draw distinctions, I would say that Reed is in the best location of the three, and it has the most structured curriculum. Oberlin’s claim to fame is its amazing co-op system, as well as the presence of the conservatory. They both also have the sort of endowment that provides more luxury and prestige. </p>
<p>New College rejects the fewest applicants of the three, but it still attracts a very similar-- though much more middle class-- sort of student. Many of us chose New College primarily for the bargain price tag. The main disadvantage is that New College doesn’t have the same national reputation as the other strong liberal arts colleges. But if you’re going to parlay the experience into a strong grad program, that might not matter.</p>