<p>I'm very worried on which to choose. I am a swimmer and being recruited by both schools. This weekend I have a recruit trip to Dartmouth and my brother was part of the class of 2010. I already visited Columbia and enjoyed my experience there. Which is better? NYC is an amazing location, but while in Columbia I felt there wasn't a strong sense of community amongst the students. It also seems that undergraduate students arent as well taken care of at Columbia as Dartmouth. Is this a true observation? As a kid whos lived in a rural area her entire life, I'm worried if the city may overwhelm me. I've visited NYC many times and loooove it, but is living there difficult? It also seems that Dartmouth students are happier and more cohesive than Columbia students. On the other hand Dartmouth is secluded and the frat lifestyle isn't very appealing. On reading other threads, the D-plan seems more of a nuisance than I thought. Both schools have so many great things! I don't know what would be best! Help!!</p>
<p>If it helps I transferred from Columbia to Dartmouth. The community aspects of Dartmouth are much much stronger and I think the benefits of the D-plan outweigh the disadvantages. Dartmouth is just such a more tightknit experience and its much “warmer” all around - from the alumni loyalty to the way professors invite you to their homes. You get a sense that the administration cares deeply about the experience and this shows in so many ways such as the incredible study abroads and post college reunions. I think Columbia is a great place to go for grad school but personally I felt like I was missing out on something there while Dartmouth was just an overall amazing and cohesive experience. I personally believe you’ll enjoy it more.</p>