Williams vs Swarthmore

Ephman
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 14:30:20 +0000

Agree with those who say this choice is a true toss-up and you can’t go wrong. If you still have time try to visit both for a few days and I’d say just go where you feel most comfortable.

Regarding a few comments here, I strongly disagree with those who claim that Williams is in any way competitive … never a vibe I experienced or have ever heard about from those who have attended Williams since I graduated. No one caress about their performance relative to their peers, or if anyone does, it’s far too few to matter. It’s a very relaxed, friendly, collaborative atmosphere. I’d also strongly disagree with the claim that Williams has more prestige than Swarthmore. Among employers, academics, grad schools, anyone of consequence to your future, they are viewed as equals. And the student bodies are essentially equal in terms of credentials. Also, it’s not true to say that Swarthmore is more diverse … Swarthmore has more Asian students, Williams has more Black students, but they are roughly equivalent in terms of racial and economic diversity. Finally, I would not call Williams “preppy,” take a look at the kids on campus and not that many really fit that description. Perhaps “not terribly interested in fashion” would be a better descriptor …

In terms of why I prefer Williams over Swarthmore – I like the beautiful natural surroundings at Williams. I did find Williams to have a marginally less stressful vibe, although students are very focused on academics and work very hard at both places. I wanted a small school, but Swarthmore felt a little TOO small (Williams is about 25 percent larger). I love a few of Williams unique quirks: the Junior Advisor / entry system, Winter Study, Mountain Day, Tutorials, all of which are really great selling points in my view. Swarthmore I’m sure has its own unique attributes that make it more attractive to other applicants. Since the academics are even, the post-grad opportunities are even, and for you the cost is even, just go where your gut tells you that you will be happiest.