<p>Is Cate or Thacher a better school? (and why?)</p>
<p>I’m loath to say that one is better than the other. They are old, but friendly rivals and treat one another respectfully. Each does a great job of educating its students and sending them off to good colleges. </p>
<p>Definitely visit both. Take your time to scope out the kids, teachers, campus etc. There are material differences in programs/approaches etc that will likely make one school a better choice for you than the other.</p>
<p>What makes Thacher unique, in my opinion, is its particular blend of intense academics and the horse/outdoor programs, a powerful sense of community, and an honor code that’s real and active. The location is not too shabby, either!</p>
<p>I had visited those schools when i was applying to boarding schools as an international student. I applied to both west and east coast boarding schools. Cate and Thacher were both on the list. Definitely visit both of them, u will get a sense of what you like in terms of environment.</p>
<p>In terms of academics, both seems to be rigorous. Thacher might come out on top with a little higher average SATs, and matriculations into some top colleges, but that doesn’t mean Cate isn’t academically challenging, my cousin graduated from Cate and went on to studying liberal arts in UChicago.</p>
<p>On a side note, personally I really don’t like horses all that much.</p>
<p>Cate and Thacher are fantastic schools. The two campuses are located less than 20 miles apart, so it would be easy to visit both and draw your own conclusion about which you might prefer.</p>
<p>Thank you!</p>