Williams vs Barnard for CS (+econ)

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I’m really leaning towards Williams right now, but I’m mainly concerned with the isolation/distance. I’m also wondering how the CS/STEM education is, and in terms of social life, I’m not exactly a super outdoorsy or sportsy person–so I’m worried if I’ll feel out of place or left behind in terms of making friends/joining communities. Any and all advice is welcome! Thanks so much!

Williams:
Pros:

  • super tight community, and great access to professors and a personalized education
  • extremely undergrad-focused, so resources/opportunities/etc. go to undergrads
  • fantastic alumni network

Cons:

  • super isolated
  • quite small (which has both pros and cons)
  • CS program isn’t as strong(?)

Barnard
Pros:

  • NYC! city life, lots of new experiences, and I feel like I’ll broaden my horizons there
  • has a small liberal arts college experience, while proximity to columbia also provides access to a larger, co-ed experience

Cons:

  • seems to have a less tight-knit school spirit/community
  • very small campus
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This article discusses aspects related to your criteria, and mentions one student who transferred from Williams to Barnard:

As an opinion, however, I wouldn’t regard an article such as this as sufficient, by itself, to discourage you from leaning toward Williams.

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Two wonderful options - congrats. Nobody you never met can know which college is the better fit for you.

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But folks can share insights, experiences, and comment on your assumptions (such as for Williams being a “super tight community”).

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However, the OP has not asked for this type of determination. As with most other topics of this type, she appears to have asked for perspectives that may help her in making her own decision.

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And any poster is free to do just that. (Particularly if anyone can offer insights not noted in the excellent pro/con lists in the original post.)