<p>I got into several schools, but I am torn between Bowdoin and Carleton. In my opinion they are basically equal when it comes to rankings and prestige and all that, but you can say what you want. Bowdoin expects me to pay $20,000 a year, and Carleton wants me to pay $14,000 a year. What are the pros and cons of goin to Bowdoin and Carleton?</p>
<p>Congratulations on admission to these two top schools. My son chose Bowdoin for many reasons and is very happy there. One difference between the two schools is the number of distribution requirements, that is required courses. See links below for each school. Also you may want to check out the thread below this one - College of the Year. Link to the original article to determine the name of the guide book. This guide book provides only anectodal comments from students but this still might help you determine which school better suits you. You can google the name to the guide book to read these comments - cc won't allow mention of specific guide books.</p>
<p>Carleton</a> College Academic Catalog: Academic Programs
Distribution</a> Requirements (Bowdoin, Academics)</p>
<p>-- Also, as you probably already know, Bowdoin is on the traditional semester system whereas Carleton is on the trimester system with three 10 week terms.</p>
<p>About the money, talk to Bowdoin, and see if they'll meet Carleton's offer.</p>
<p>my son is at carleton and loves it. diverse student popultaion, wonderfully open and welcoming midwestern feel and lots of students who know they're smart but don't feel they have to "prove" it.
trimesters allow for ability to focus on courses easily. at three per trimester each course gets the attention it deserves. i'm sure bowdoin i snice but don't write off minnesota. go knights!</p>
<p>I guess the total bottom line may be a factor. What will transportation costs be for you? Are you closer to one or the other? Flights can add a lot to your bottom line.
As regards to the semester vs quarters: think about how Carleton starts later in Sept and gets out in June. Will this affect summer plans, internships etc?<br>
Brunswick has all that beautiful coastline and fresh seafood. Northfield's downtown is slightly closer to the college.<br>
If you are outdoorsy, I'd say Bowdoin because of the variety of geography and opportunity nearby. Carleton's running trails become nicely groomed nordic ski trails in the winter.
You have two great choices.</p>