<p>Hey, I was wondering if anybody has any insights into either of these schools. I've done a lot of reading and research, but I'm still undecided as to which I prefer (I really love both!). So, could any of you college-savvy CCers help me out?</p>
<p>i would also post this on the school-specific forums. My S is accepted to Bard, so this is based on what I’ve learned. Bard has alot of opportunities to engage in or enjoy the arts, to interact with a broader community (Prison Initiative, Intergenerational programs on campus, classes with West Point cadets as well as satellite programs in other locations), outdoor recreation (hiking, biking, etc.), reasonable proximity to NYC for visits and for access to amazing professors. The location is a great draw for attracting top-notch faculty. </p>
<p>While Bard has a reputation for being “artsy-fartsy,” it is in fact one of the more rigorous schools around and it has very strong programs in many areas.</p>
<p>neither of the school specific forums get much traffic.</p>
<p>If you love both school’s, I think your decision should come down to location. Where do you see yourself spending the next 4 years of your life.
Also, I would look into student retention rates at both schools. I think at Reed, there might be a lower student retention rate than Bard. I think Reed has a very specific environment that caters perfectly for the right student, as opposed to students who don’t fit the norm.</p>
<p>perhaps you could PM some of the participants on these forums. SpiritManager and heyalb are thrilled parents and lilygraces a happy student at Bard. Also, check out a thread I started on the Bard forum that was titled something like “I Don’t Get it.” </p>
<p>Bard’s retention rate is on the low side, too.</p>
<p>If you intend to go into the sciences I think Reed is stronger there.</p>
<p>Hey pal i’m in teh same boat as you. Shoot me a pm when ya make up your mind. Are you going to one of the reed activity days?</p>