<p>I'm hoping I get into both so assuming I do, what are the big differences? Which should I chose if I like all subjects but I like Math and Science the best, I'm not a big fan of the Harkness method but I don't mind it, I'm really into music and I'm a big lacrosse player. Which should I choose? Don't just say whichever one you go to or want to go to, tell me why.</p>
<p>For me, Exeter 
For you, Andover
Because EVERYTHING is harkness at Exeter, and you don’t want to be in a school where you don’t like the way EVERY class is taught. Music and lax really don’t matter because they’re great at both. Math and Science are only slightly better in Exeter so if you aren’t a fan of Harkness, I would lean towards Andover for you.</p>
<p>I would second CCer999, although I’d actually contest the statement that Exeter’s science program is stronger than Andover’s. Math, perhaps - Exeter has more offerings in this department - but science is a little harder to measure. For example, Andover’s physics department is recognized nationwide for its strength - while most schools brag that 90% of their students pass the AP (get a 3 or higher) Andover advertises that the average grade on AP physics exams taken by students is 4.9 (out of 5). I don’t know if you’ll be able to find these stats online - the only reason I know is because, well, I go to Andover and from time to time the professors (er, teachers) mention this kind of thing. The thing to remember is that these classes aren’t even designated AP courses.</p>
<p>In any case, I think another important thing to remember is that the “Harkness” method doesn’t end at Exeter. A lot of English, History, Relative Philosophy, and world languages meet around oval tables here at Andover, too… So if you’re looking to avoid class participation entirely, it’ll work at neither school.</p>
<p>Hey TomTheCat,</p>
<p>Are you still loving it? Was it brutal getting through the end of term? Were you sleep-deprived? Did you sit through Andover-Exeter in the deluge?</p>
<p>I’m still loving it, but there’s been a lot more stress and adjustment than I expected. I knew that Andover would be challenging - but not this challenging. There have been more than several times during which I’ve genuinely struggled in each of my classes - and I’m a hard worker. It’s definitely been worth it, but Andover days are intense (all 18+ hours of each one). I LOVE it nonetheless. I can’t compliment my friends, teachers, and dorm mates enough, and I recognize that I’ve already grown immensely in a bunch of different ways. I’d recommend this place in a heartbeat; everyone who’s here is ecstatic to be, and who could ask for greater schooling conditions than that? Sure, I’m not entirely certain I scored so well on the BRUTAL New Upper English and Math 350 exams… but I’m absolutely certain I’m in good company and I definitely could have ended the term a lot more dissatisfactorily.</p>
<p>Yes, I did sit through the d</p>
<p>thanks guys, and im not saying I don’t like the Harkness method I think it’s just something I might have to do a tiny bit of adjusting to get used to. I loved Exeter when I visited but I haven’t visited Andover yet so I don’t know what to expect. Just by reading about both I feel like I would have more fun out of classes at Andover and I even though I’m very committed academically I want high school to be fun</p>
<p>ANDOVER</p>
<p>Really, it’s just the best. I’m away for winter break and I miss it so much! So, here is the main reason why I chose it over Exeter:</p>
<p>The people. Everyone is so happy, and seemingly much happier than at Exeter (based on my tour, revisit, and Andover/Exeter experiences). Like Tom said, it’s hard. Really hard. But there’s so much positive energy, so many smiling faces backing you up every step of the way, that you work through it and enjoy it.</p>
<p>At Exeter, people just seemed stressed. No one jumped to say they love it like the students do at Andover. Just my observation.</p>
<p>GO BLUE</p>