I am trying to decide between Union and Denison. Here in NYC, Union has a better reputation, but that is not the only factor I will be taking into account. I plan on re-visiting both schools, but am having a difficult time figuring out which one is the best for me. From what I have heard from others and read, the two schools have a lot of similarities.
Both schools have substantial party scenes for LAC’s, both have many prep school kids from the Northeast, both have Division III sports, and both are solid academic schools.
My only worry about Union is Schenectady, and for Denison, I cannot currently think of too many negatives.
You may want to think about the questions you have about both and make sure they get answered at the re-visits. I think they’re comparable at a high level – how do they compare for what you’re interested in studying? How do you feel about the academic calendar of each? Union has 3 classes in each of 3 trimesters. Not sure about Denison. Preference there? Do you care about how hard it is to get home? Sorry, I know you’re looking for answers, and I’ve just asked more questions. With these two, I wouldn’t let “reputation” influence my decision – sounds like you’re leaning toward Denison.
I agree that it sounds like you prefer Denison. FWIW, I visited Union with my D and it struck me as having a real STEM/engineering orientation which may not be ideal for you.
I don’t know how this compares to Union, but Denison has a much more diverse student population than its reputation would lead you to expect. About 18% of the students are first generation and/or low income students. Denison has strong arts and music culture, non-residential greek life, and a semester system. Union is trimester and has stronger greek participation, as I understand it.