We have a very enthusiastic STEM-oriented child and are torn between two schools—one known for strong faculty and the other for a strong student body. How does The Lawrenceville School support students with a passion for STEM, and what makes it stand out in this area?
Has your child been admitted to both? Have you visited?
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He’s been offered admission to both, and we’ve visited each. It’s proving to be a really tough decision. He’s passionate about science and a strong communicator. We’re trying to figure out which school offers the better opportunities for him to thrive.
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Just to push back a bit on something from your initial post, both schools are known for strong faculty and a strong student body.
Also, though I know TJ is known for being a science school (I mean … it’s in the name!), many many Lawrenceville grads go on to major in science / engineering / math disciplines.
That being said, there’s not a lot that the folks here can do to make recommendations without more info on your kid. The things your family values and prioritizes will be different from those of any other person on CC. Some people find it helpful to write up what they’re really trying to get out of the high school experience, and, in doing so, get clarity around which path makes sense for them. That could make sense for you to do?
I’m not sure what TJ’s pedagogical framework is, but Lawrenceville is a big proponent of the Harkness model. Perhaps you have thoughts about that aspect of education, and how it fits your son’s learning style?
(When are decisions due by, anyway? I would have thought you would have needed to make a commitment by this point.)
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TJ tends to have extremely tough grading. I imagine Lawrenceville would be easier for college admissions
Your child will have a very different experience at each of these and will not be the same applicant to college from each. Neither is better but one may be better for your child. Think about how your child will develop as a student and person at each.
For academics, consider both what is offered and how it is taught.
What does your child do outside of classes? Sports? Robotics? Music? What does that require of your family in terms of time and resources? Are there requirements for EC at either that will be challenging?
L’ville has kids from all over the world while any day school is limited by its geography. Does that matter? Likewise, L’ville may have considered more than academics in its admissions process, so your kid is more likely to have classmates who are exceptional athletes, musicians, dancers, etc. Does that appeal?
Being a boarder is great for some kids and not so great for others. Where are you on this?
I really wouldn’t be focusing on “support for STEM kids” without first considering which environment was going to help my kid be his best self. These are really different options, each exceptional in its own way.
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