I would really really ask Amherst students how often they take classes at the other campuses. I have a student at one of the 5 colleges and while she appreciates the neighboring towns and occasional parties at other schools, it’s not actually that convenient to take classes at them. (She has a car which makes the commute easier, but she has everything she needs at her own camopus.) When I toured Amherst, it was clear that Amherst students are even less likely than students at other campuses to take advantage of that opportunity. Likely because the offerings at Amherst are pretty good. Regarding the weather, it’s almost the same at both places. The issue is the loss of light rather than the cold and wet which you can dress for. But you get used to anything and winter sports are so fun. One advantage of Maine is the easy access to affordable skiing for everyone and a general attitude about taking advantage of the outdoors. It’s just a stronger pull in Maine even though Massachusetts is also beautiful and woodsy. I’d focus on the mascots. Polar Bear beats Lord Jeff or even a mammoth. Bowdoin is more down to earth, more earnest. Amherst is more serious, more self important. Sorry ‘bout it.
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