Bryn Mawr versus Mount Holyoke

I’m trying to decide between these two colleges as my top choice but I really don’t know which way to go with covid and not being able to visit either. I’m possibly interested in environmental science or neuroscience, but that may change. I’m just not really sure what the different vibes is between them. My mom went to Bryn Mawr so I applied mainly because of that, however I’ve come to really like it too now. My main concern is the academic rigor of the schools. Which is less academically rigorous? I know they both have a reputation for being challenging and people want to learn, which I obviously really like, but I also want time to join clubs and do other things. I want an environment that isn’t stressful and that isn’t just studying all the time. I have adhd and get migraines often so I am out of commission when that happens. My parents don’t want me to go to Bryn Mawr mainly because they are concerned that it will be too stressful after going through it firsthand. My mom also tells me that if she had to do college all over again she wouldn’t pick Bryn Mawr because of the academics. However, I know this was 30 years ago and I’m sure a lot has changed since then. Also, I didn’t get any merit scholarships or financial aid for either, so it will be full price which will be hard with my family. I really want to go to a women’s college, but don’t know if it is worth 300k+ for a bachelors degree. Any advice is appreciated, thanks!

Mount Holyoke, while challenging academically, is not overly competitive or cutthroat. The campus is gorgeous and students have time to join clubs, play sports, take the bus to Amherst or Northampton, and just hang out.

Having said that, do you have other options that won’t cost 300k?

Thanks for the info about MHC. I do have other safety schools, the one with the most merit scholarship will only cost 100k total for my degree. Although the professors and academics at other schools seem good, none are all women’s, so the community and traditions won’t be there. That’s really what I want in a school. I’m going to see if I qualify for any aid now since my dad’s income is much less with covid, but I’m not too hopeful.

Academics are quite rigorous at Mount Holyoke but the students do manage to make time for clubs and activities. The cost is as steep as similarly-situated liberal arts colleges and, in my opinion, it is worth it. Your Mount Holyoke experience and degree will last you a lifetime – as will the friends you make there and afterwards. You may be amused to learn that there are active Facebook groups for Mount Holyoke alums where one can seek out trusted advice for any of life’s issues. It is the graduate equivalent of “hallway research.”

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