I would recommend that anyone comparing Lehigh with Colgate should visit both and guage what was referred to
above as “civilization” in Bethlehem, PA and what I would call an idyllic small college town in central NY, Hamilton.
If that doesn’t do it, and as was mentioned above, and if the pure liberal arts college discipline appeals to you then think about the top NESCAC schools, most also in rural locations, and what they offer. You will find that Colgate is quite a bit larger and yes, does have terrific ice hockey. And also terrific D1 football as league champions for 2 years running.
Here is a link to Colgate’s amazing Class of 1965 Arena. Get on your skates!
The biggest difference is that Colgate is a strong, liberal arts curriculum, Lehigh does not take that approach. I am a firm believer in the liberal arts as building both a well rounded student and a strong community since the students all take a few of the same courses. Employers are also noticing how different LA students come out of their education and are now seeking them out. Both have excellent reputations when it comes to academics, though I do think Colgate’s is a bit stronger (known as a “Little Ivy”). Colgate has no grad students, where Lehigh does, so you will be taught by your professors (no TAs) in smaller classrooms (3000 students vs. 7000, big difference). If you end up going to grad school, that really matters, as your professors will know you, which typically gets you better letters of rec. Both have work hard, play hard reputations and both are in towns away from major cities. Both have fairly strong Greek systems. Colgate has impressive D1 sports, especially considering its size. Alum network is incredibly strong at Colgate (not sure about Lehigh) and the community seems to be very cohesive (in other words, the different groups hang out with one another).
I posted on your Colgate post too. My son really didn’t want to ED II anywhere, as he wanted to see what options he ended up with (he also originally applied to Lehigh and then obviously withdrew), but once we visited, he had no doubt at all. You’ll know if it is the right fit for you when you are there. PM me if you have specific questions about our experience and I am happy to share.
I would encourage you (as was mentioned) to consider Lafayette College. Close by to Lehigh, has strong engineering, business and is the arch football rival of Lehigh.
One unique characteristic of a Colgate education and a common thread for generations of alumni is the Core Curriculum. Its mission and scope are described below:
Colgate students are very fortunate to share in the experience, in my view. The faculty excels in their interdisciplary scholarship and delivery of the Core.