Hello!
I’m wondering if anyone can speak to the pros and cons of a semi-urban environment like the town of Amherst (and nearby Northampton), as opposed to the sequestered beauty of the Williams campus and those like it. Does the town play a role significant enough to diminish the feeling of community at Amherst, as compared to the completely isolated and close-knit community of Williams?
Similarly, does the attraction of the town take away from outdoorsy culture at Amherst because there is that alternative?
Also, is it true that Amherst students pretty much steer clear of Zu parties? Kind of a silly question but I’m really curious.
Sorry, just the fact that you describe Amherst as semi urban has give me the biggest chuckle I have had in a long time!
Aha. Yes, I’ve been known to overstate once it’s past 2am. A chuckle is an answer itself (worth a thousand words), thanks!
Amherst is still a small town in a very rural setting. UMass just brings 25K students to it, which is a huge plus, IMO.
My kid doesn’t go to Zu parties but some kids might.
@appdout I’m from a town that’s about half the population of Williamstown, so Amherst feels semi urban to me too! My city friends thought it was hilarious that I was so excited about the presence of multiple (!!!) grocery stores. And coffee shops! And a bus system!
Amherst the town is easily accessible, and in my opinion doesn’t diminish the feeling of community at all. Most people I know spend the majority of their time on campus, with the town as a fun place to go on occasion to get a bite to eat or pick up necessities.
We have an active Outing Club if you’re interested in outdoor activities. There might not be quite so many outdoorsy activities here as at Williams, but there are still a lot of options available.
@glittervine do kids who don’t do any sports feel out of place at Amherst?
@YoLolololol In general, no. People find their own groups of people with similar interests. I have 0 interest in sports and I feel like I fit in just fine. If you’re more of a partier or if you make friends with a lot of athletes, you might feel out of place more.
@OHMomof2 @glittervine Thank you so much!