Bryn Mawr and Wellesley

<p>I have been trying to decide between these two colleges of which to attend.
I understand that Wellesley has a higher overall rank than Bryn Mawr, but I am also very appealed to Bryn Mawr’s Tri-Co system and the opportunity to take classes in Upenn. I live very close to Wellesley College so I know much more about it than I know about Bryn Mawr. I have always known that Wellesley is very academic focus (so does Bryn Mawr) and political active and that is why I love about it. However, its location is rather dull (since I have been living close by for several years) and Philly is fresh and new to me. </p>

<p>I wish to major in International Relations/Studies or Political Science, and minor in Environmental Policy/Studies, and I know that Wellesley has very strong IR and PS departments and both schools are aware of sustainable living. However, I think the Tri-Co system and Upenn classes are definitely a strong academic support in Bryn Mawr as well. </p>

<p>Could someone please give me some advise of which one should be more preferable to me?</p>

<p>Hi wangy20,</p>

<p>Congratulations on your acceptances! I spent my high school years in New England and was also skeptical of staying in the area. While Wellesley is a great school, I totally understand the yearning for something new. I had never been to Philadelphia until enrolling at Bryn Mawr and I really can’t speak highly enough for the city and the proximity. Philly is really easy to navigate and is such an accessible size, not to mention New York and DC only a two hour bus ride away. I’ve taken a couple classes at Penn, but also frequent Philly to visit friends at other colleges (Temple, UArts, Drexel, etc). The TriCo is also very fluid and simple - the bus to Haverford runs every 15 minutes, but in nice weather it’s an easy 1-mile walk or bike ride.</p>

<p>I have several friends that’ve majored in Political Science and have absolutely loved the department. A PoliSci friend of mine who graduated last year now works as the Development Director at a statewide non-profit. I would also encourage you to look at the department websites to see what the faculty’s specialties are and what courses they offer. If you prefer Haverford’s departments for whatever reason you are welcome to major there as well. </p>

<p>I remember being hung up on rankings in high school, but I honestly believe the best fit for you is what matters most. They haven’t released this year’s ranking but I have a strong suspicion Bryn Mawr’s will jump quite a bit considering we have our lowest acceptance rate ever. I like Bryn Mawr because I have access to other top colleges like Haverford and Swarthmore, but am first and foremost a Bryn Mawr woman. Students got to Bryn Mawr for the whole college experience and while the Seven Sisters may look similar on paper, each is a very distinct institution. </p>

<p>Best of luck with your decision!</p>

<p>Englishivy, thank you so much and that makes me so much more confident on what I have chosen!! I think it is time for something new and that although Wellesley could offer a lot but what Bryn Mawr can offer me is more valuable to me. Thank you so much for all the information and I will definitely look into the department website!!!</p>