My son is having difficulty deciding between Dickinson and Colgate. He will be majoring in environmental science and a minor in mandarin. He loves the outdoors, not a fan of urban life and is on the serious side. I can see him at either school. Dickinson is 3 + hours and Colgate 4. - distance not a factor. Any insights on either school are welcome.
My daughter (who’s almost 26) did her freshman year at Dickinson (she enjoyed it but had a guaranteed transfer to Cornell that she couldn’t pass on) and my son is currently a freshman at Colgate. My daughter thought the teaching at Dickinson was excellent and would have been happy to stay at Dickinson if she didn’t have the GT option. Even with COVID restrictions my son has loved his year at Colgate and has made wonderful friends. I’m not sure how the two schools compare in the two programs your child is looking into, but both schools have a lot to offer.
FWIW, one downside at both schools is the very average (or below average) food.
Dickinson has a bit more of a Mid-Atlantic feel (perhaps less showy of wealth) and a less “party hard” scene. Colgate has a strong alumni network in NYC and may have a bit more prestige in those circles.
Both were on DS’ list, and both are great schools. I would definitely try to map out what the 4 year course of study would look like at both based on current plans – paying attention to school and departmental requirements. This could highlight academic differences that could help narrow it down.
Also, take a good look at Dickinson’s foreign study. I believe they run all their own programs which, for some interests, may be limiting.
1 Like
I’m assuming Dickinson will be less expensive due to they offer merit.
Is cost a consideration here? I think someone else nailed it - Colgate has the prestige and name recognition. Dickinson doesn’t - at least outside the NE.
That’s it - both are great schools
1 Like
This is a tough choice. Dickinson was one of the first colleges in the country to make a commitment to sustainability and the environment. But Colgate has caught up and has also made a strong commitment. Both offer what you’re looking for academically.
For a kid who loves the outdoors, Colgate is less than an hour’s drive from the 6 million acre Adirondack Park, the nation’s first major commitment to protecting the environment 135 years ago via constitutional amendment by the state of NY. In addition to water and forest preservation, it is a haven for serious outdoor enthusiasts with long established traditions in hiking, canoeing, camping, mountain climbing, and winter sports. It’s an added bonus to attending Colgate.