<p>Received admission at both, now comes the tough part in deciding between them. Although Williams is liberal arts, it seems like both schools have similar features. I've always intended on attending Duke from very early on, but at the moment I do not know. Any advice? (Undecided Major, but not leaning towards the hard sciences) It is always valuable to get another's perspective.</p>
<p>I understand that Williams vs Yale, Williams vs Swarthmore etc are tough decisions. But it shouldn't really be that difficult to decide whether Williams or Duke. If you are looking for superior academics, better grad school placement and more liberalism (not to mention beautiful campus, Oxford program etc etc) then Williams is the place for you.</p>
<p>Thumz, I was asked this question by another poster and this is what I said:</p>
<p>I think Duke and Williams have a high level of overlap in the type of student they attract, so I can see the mutual appeal. </p>
<p>In addition to the weather, the major differences are size and the style of teaching. </p>
<p>I went to a Big 10 university which for me wasnt such a good environment, but many, many kids excel in the big, lively hustle and bustle. I havent been to Duke but I imagine that its similar in ambience.</p>
<p>My son has LOVED his Williams experience. Everything that you read about the warm and nurturing community is true and then some. Hes made wonderful friends and has expanded his intellectual horizons infinitely. </p>
<p>A word on the weather there is no doubt that the Berkshires have a long cold winter and it really helps to be involved in a snow sport. The Fall and Spring on the other hand are glorious and I cant say enough about the profound natural beauty of the area. </p>
<p>Other factors that are unique to Williams are the first year entry system, the tutorial program and Winter Study. My son has personally benefited from all of these.</p>
<p>Academically Id give Williams a slight edge, but I am very biased toward the LAC style of teaching. For sciences and social studies I say Duke and Williams are about equal. For humanities -- art studio and art history, theater, dance, creative writing, music -- Id vote for Williams.</p>
<p>As far as brand name recognition, Duke is more widely known, though Williams has an excellent track record for getting its students into graduate programs and professional schools. The alumna/i network is amazingly strong.</p>