<p>These are my top 3 choices of those that I was accepted to - Colby as a Presidential Scholar and I was wondering if anyone had knowledge of the comparative quality of the Education Departments in these schools, as well as the accessibility of the faculty in general. Also what are the fun social life opportunities for people who are non-drinkers at these schools? I'll be visiting them all this month! Thank you!!!!</p>
<p>I don’t know about the education in comparison to other schools, but I think that most Colby students feel that the academics are quite challenging, yet interesting. You WILL get a great education at Colby no matter what, and the professors are more than willing to help you enhance your experience too. The professors are available in office hours at least three times a week outside of class, and love to have students come to them with questions, concerns, or just to say hi and make a connection. In fact, students do better in classes when they make a little bit of an effort to get to know the professor because even in small classes, it’s nice for the professor to know that the kids are interested. Many professors also offer to go to lunch with students because we have a program where the school pays for the professor’s lunch if they’re meeting/chatting with a student. Colby is constantly having fun activities on campus put on by different clubs. For example, this week is both Pride week and Enviro-week on campus, so there are plenty of things going on. There is a drag show, a tent out on Miller lawn, and lots of sales. Last weekend we had J. Cole come and perform, and a dance. There are plenty of things to do whether you drink or not. There is also Oasis housing for non-drinkers, and they put on a number of activities on campus where students can hang out and have fun together without alcohol. Despite the town’s seemingly poor atmosphere, Colby has a TON to do, and I have never once found myself bored! Good luck in your decision–but I will say that Colby is a wonderful place :)</p>
<p>I can tell you for sure that you’ll get really good research opportunities at Colby, especially if you’re a presidential scholar. My friend was a presidential scholar and she got one of the first picks for her current research job. If you were named a presidential scholar, Colby REALLY wants you! That being said, Middlebury is very comparable to Colby in all aspects. I don’t know anything about Brandeis, but I’m sure it’s a great school too. You will get a fantastic education at Colby. I love all my classes and they’re challenging but in a good way. Colby’s academics are just as good if not better than Midd’s. The professors are amazing and make an effort to get to know you and will arrange appointments with you if you can’t make office hours. I can tell you now I’m getting my money’s worth academically. I’m friends with the students who started Oasis and I’ve been helping them plan some events. I have some friends who drink and others who don’t. Some Friday/Saturday nights I’ll just watch a movie or relax; I don’t feel the need or the pressure to drink several nights a week. Good luck with your decision, and do let us know if you have any further questions about Colby!</p>