Williams or Amherst Admission - Realistic Chances

momrath
Thu, 03 Feb 2011 20:36:34 +0000

I would say that the overall selectivity between Williams and Amherst is about the same, though I’d give Williams the edge for support of musical kids. There are just more performance options at Williams than at Amherst and the school needs musicians to fill the slots, even if they are not music majors.

After he visits (which he should do!) he’ll have a better idea of the differences between the two schools. No reason not to apply to both – as well as a balanced list of less selectives.

Your son’s international experience and Japan focus will be a plus for him. You’d be surprised how many students – even at these “elite” schools – have never traveled outside of the United States, especially to Asia.

Don’t worry so much about the SATs. Prep, retake and forget about it. His scores won’t keep him out or get him in. Same for the one or two B’s on his transcript. This is not a deal breaker.

His intensive extracurriculars and intellectual interests will be what pushes him over the wall into the accept pile, so he should concentrate on crafting a knockout application that weaves all the thread of his profile in to a three dimensional image. Supplemental materials, essays and recommendations are critical here.

You don’t mention your financial situation. Will your son require need based aid? If yes, then make sure your EFC is workable before proceeding. If no, he might consider applying early decision, but if he does that he must visit first.