<p>I didn’t want to make a big deal about my decision, but I thought I should just post and explain my reasoning for my choice (so those of you who have been following this and its mirror thread have an end).</p>
<p>I visited both Williams and Swarthmore overnight, but I wasn’t convinced by either visit. Honestly, I was so nervous afterward because I couldn’t decide after Williams (I didn’t visit Previews, I visited the weekend after) when I thought I would know after the overnight. I was worried that maybe I was wrong and neither school was right for me since I didn’t love either one. I never got that “aha! now THIS is where I want to go” moment that everyone seems to talk about.</p>
<p>Anyways, I appealed to both Swarthmore and Williams for financial aid and decided that whoever gave me more money would be the school I would attend. Williams gave me an additional $5000, Swarthmore nothing.</p>
<p>But even before I heard from the financial aid offices, I talked to a few people who knew me very, very well. I’ll be honest - I was leaning towards Williams from the very start (I hid this so I could get somewhat more objective answers…though I guess it didn’t turn out that way haha). I thought the overnight would totally convince me, but…it didn’t. Now, however, I think that might have been a good thing that I didn’t have a totally perfect overnight experience. I am no longer going into college expecting every part of the college life to be absolutely perfect and the best experience EVER, with no flaws. I think many students, especially ED, go into college with that mentality - and when little things start to go wrong, it seems like the world is ending because of sky-high expectations.</p>
<p>Oddly enough, despite the initial misgivings I had from both overnights, I’m completely at peace. I tend to overthink things, and now that it’s over I can rest and look forward to next year. I’m happy that I chose Williams, and I guess I knew, deep down, that was where I would end up from the beginning. Though Swarthmore will always have a special place in my heart as well. I’d like to thank all of you for giving me your opinions and accounts about each school - perhaps I’ll see you all next year with posts on my experience at Williams!</p>
<p>PS: If you are curious or want me to elaborate on why I chose Williams over Swarthmore (besides the financial aid) or need help making a decision yourself, feel free to PM me, I’d be happy to tell you.</p>