Dickinson -vs- Villanova

Colleges and Universities A-Z Dickinson College
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<p>Daughter's decision time is upon us. We have visited each and believe either would be a great choice. She is undecided as to major/area of study.</p>

<p>I have listed some of her considerations, below. Comments and any additional considerations are most welcome!</p>

<p>Size: approximately 2,400 at D versus 6,500/10,000 (w/graduate students) for V. Daughter likes the size/community feel at D, but I don't think she would find V overwhelming.</p>

<p>Location: V location is great w/easy access to Philadelphia. Carlisle (obviously) not the options and somewhat remote. C did at least seem to offer some dining and shopping options. Each are a 6-7 hour drive. Flight, train or bus access better at V, but not awful C to BWI.</p>

<p>International: International study is important to her. D really excels here with many programs and really well-integrated to the course of study. V seems to have a few programs, but this area did not seem nearly as well-developed (even limited) - and at a significantly larger school.</p>

<p>Athletics/clubs: Daughter interested in club-level sailing and field hockey. With studies and all the other possible activities, she may end-up doing neither. V has both. D may start club fh. Div I/basketball for V. Div III/lax for D.</p>

<p>Student body: Though smaller, D had a somewhat more diverse feel - which we think is important. Strong volunteering programs at both schools.</p>

<p>Other: Strong upgrading of plant/facilities apparent at D. Candidly, we were really impressed by the quality and consistent investment. Both schools seem to offer a genuine and strong sense of "community," though I think such may be even stronger at the smaller D.</p>

<p>Daughter did receive a meaningful merit scholarship to Dickinson.</p>

<p>Sorry for the long list. Again, thank you for your further thoughts or comments. Good luck to all.</p>

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<p>Nova is also in the process of trying to upgrade facilities. They are currently working through zoning issues with the township and plan on turning a large chunk of their parking lots into new buildings. Obviously Nova hasn’t started yet, but there are improvement plans in the works at Nova.</p>

<p>I would also keep in mind the ability to walk right of campus into town. Villanova has plenty of access to nearby towns via trains, buses, etc, but you can’t really walk right off campus into town. At a place like Dickinson, you can. You’re sometimes going to get bored staying on campus all the time so you have to look at the ease of getting off campus to have fun.</p>

<p>Good luck with your decision! Hope this helps!</p>

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<p>The red t-shirt just came downstairs along with a smile! Thanks testbulk for your good point and to all.</p>

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<p>Saw this too late to reply, but congrats on the Dickinson decision. My D loved her years there.</p>