Amherst V. Williams (specific interests)

Colleges and Universities A-Z Amherst College
1

<p>So far I’ve visited both schools and have come to a conclusion that I’m a better fit for Amherst. However, the field of studies that most interest me are much stronger at Williams- mathematics and economics. Even as a preliminary comparison, the difference in the size of faculty at each school in these studies is very significant, even when the discrepancy in class size is taken into consideration (I do not plan to utilize the consortium at Amherst; from what I hear it is a pain in the ass):</p>

<p>Economics
Amherst (10 full time)
Williams (27 full time, 4 visiting)</p>

<p>Mathematics
Amherst (13 full time, INCLUDING Comp sci)
Williams (14 full time, 2 part time, NOT including CS, which has 8 full time of its own… and apparently “award-winning” professors)</p>

<p>Now, I am aware that my interests may change over the next four years, but it is in these fields (more in math) that my strength lies as of now. Again, if I were to choose solely based on the social scene, I’d pick Amherst although not by far. If I were to make that decision, would I be giving up much?</p>

2

<ol>
<li>You say "over the next four years"...does that mean you are a freshman?</li>
<li>Williams does tend to have a "higher rated" economics and math department than Amherst, but at this level it's really splitting hairs. The quality of teaching at both schools is stellar. The decision should come down to more subjective criteria. Can you deal with the rural setting of Williams? Do you want the responsibility of choosing every class at Amherst? Which campus do you like better? You would not be giving much up by choosing one school over the other...they're the best around.</li>
</ol>

3

<p>he meant when he got into college I think.</p>

4

<p>Oh, I forgot to mention our recent Nobel prize winner alumnus in the PMs ;) Irrelevant, I know. I'd say go with the better fit - both schools are so good that you really are splitting hairs, and many students do change majors.</p>