<p>Down to these 2 colleges, and I'm having a really hard time deciding. Both gave relatively the same financial aid, so money is not the factor in this decision. What do you guys think?? I'm considering the biology program in both.</p>
<p>Two very different undergrad experiences. Have you visited them? That should help you make up your mind. Good luck!</p>
<p>Different indeed. You make want to be more specific about your interests, likes, dislikes.</p>
<p>My sister transferred from Notre Dame to Carleton after her freshman year. I think she was initially drawn to ND, in part, because she had been through many years of Catholic school and had several close friends attending. She enjoyed the friendships she made there, but ultimately it wasn’t the right fit for her. As many here have noted, Carleton’s atmosphere is small-town unpretentious, heavily encouraging of its students’ individuality, and with a high level of academic rigor, but rigor that is largely self-driven. ND has great academics and a beautiful, pristinely maintained campus, but South Bend itself isn’t great, and the “town-gown” relationship is notoriously poor. Many of my sister’s classes were larger than what she would have experienced as a Carleton freshman, and the campus culture revolves around sports and dorm-related “socials.” I think my sis wore more formal dresses to events in her one year at ND than I did in four years at Carleton. Being a Catholic university, ND dorms are single-sex, and there seems to be a lot more structure surrounding gender relations-- no boys past a certain hour, no boys in rooms with the door closed, etc. This isn’t to say that one place is better or worse than the other, but the cultures are just very different. I can’t speak to ND’s bio resources, but Carleton is known for the strength of its science programs, and I know many happy bio alums, lots of whom have gone on to fulfilling adventures in their field of study. People are right that the best way to know what’s right for you is to visit both schools. Best of luck making your choice!</p>
<p>If you aren’t really into Catholicism and/or a bit conservative or moderate, I’d go for Carleton. Don’t get me wrong ; Notre Dame is a fantastic school, but it is not for some people (i.e. it will be a bit (not a ton) uncomfortable for liberals.) . On the other hand, if you are a religious Christian/Catholic, and you are right-wing, or in-the-middle, it would suit you perfectly. Keep in mind also that Notre Dame is larger than Carleton; If you prefer smaller vs. larger or vice versa, also factor that into your decision.</p>
<p>Carleton and Notre Dame are BOTH academically wonderful in biology by the way. Bio is one of the strongest departments in both schools. Whatever you choose, it’s based on fit. Good luck!</p>