<p>Its true they are more alike than different. My kid chose BM because even tho Smith had more students, the ease of taking classes in the tri co (Swat, BM and Haverford) negated that difference. For instance, she is allowed to choose course from the tri co “course guide.” This has tripled her course offerings and social circle. </p>
<p>She also liked being near Philadelphia (less than 30 min), though she though Noho was nice, too. </p>
<p>Regarding ranking and name recognition, I think all remaining 7 sisters are well known in academic circles. Which one tops the list may depend on where you are coming from geographically; for instance, Barnard is most well known in NYC, BM in Pa, Smith in Mass, etc. BM certainly has a stellar academic record on graduate school admissions : see </p>
<p><a href=“http://web.reed.edu/ir/phd.html[/url]”>http://web.reed.edu/ir/phd.html</a></p>
<p>Again though, Smith and Holyoke and Barnard all have much to offer. Any prospective student should VISIT and TALK to current profs and students. Sit in on classes. Good luck~</p>