Williams vs Barnard for CS (+econ)

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Sun, 05 May 2024 01:53:15 +0000

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