<p>Both of these schools are good but different, but I'm not sure if one is significantly better than the other academically. I'm considering majoring in environmental science or ecology. Any thoughts or experience with them?</p>
<p>University of Rochester has a cool Earth and Environmental Sciences major you should check out, and also a bio major with concentration in ecology and evolutionary biology.
[Department</a> of Earth and Environmental Sciences : University of Rochester](<a href=“http://www.ees.rochester.edu/]Department”>http://www.ees.rochester.edu/)</p>
<p>I don’t know much about Smith, but I can talk a ton about U of R! The academics are set up so that you at least cluster in a humanity, social science, and a math/science. This give you the depth of a “liberal arts” education without forcing you to take classes you aren’t interested in, which everyone really likes. At Rochester the majority of students are bio majors or in bio/science related majors, and nearly half of the students take things like freshman chem and bio.</p>
<p>Both schools offer excellent academics but they are very different. If money is not an issue, I’d pick the school where you feel the environment is best for you.</p>
<p>I don’t think there is any significance difference in the quality of education at these two schools.</p>
<p>But they are VERY, VERY different in terms of campus climate and environment.</p>
<p>Smith College, for one, is an all-women small liberal arts college. Though, it’s academic and social offerings are multiplied by being a member of the five college consortium. Rochester is a major research university (underrated, in my humble opinion).</p>
<p>No one can tell you which would be better for you. Just know that you can get an outstanding education at either. It really will be about “fit.” Check out their websites, compare financial aid packages, and visit if possible. If the costs after financial aid are similar, just go with your gut.</p>