<p>Daughter received virtually the same merit from each . I am not all that familair with the relative reputation of each school - She will start as a liberal arts major. Any big delta between these 2 school that I am not seeing ???</p>
<p>" Any big delta between these 2 school"</p>
<p>Not sure what you mean by this, but the two schools are very similar in many respects as far as number of students, types of students, and their catholic orientation (Providence is Dominican, whereas Fairfield is Jesuit). </p>
<p>As far as reputation, again I think they are similar, and both are well regarded. But if you are into rankings, Providence is ahead of Fairfield. Providence was ranked #2 in the most recent USNWR college rankings, and Fairfield was 3rd. And, Providence was ranked #151 in the most recent Forbes Ranking, whereas Fairfield was #185. </p>
<p>Have you visited both schools? Where I think they differ greatly is in the type of campus each offers and its environment. Fairfield has a beautiful, sprawling campus located in a small quiet town and is a mile or two from the LI Sound - with all that has to offer. Its newer. Providence, on the other hand, has a beautiful (but much more compact, by comparison ) campus located in a small/medium sized city a few miles away from the downtown area - with all THAT has to offer. It has some beautiful old buildings, along with some beautiful new ones. </p>
<p>^^edit/clarification…meant to say in the “most recent USNWR college rankings of Regional Universities (North)” in the above post</p>
<p>I know more about Providence than Fairfield.</p>
<p>Providence students have a reputation, mostly deserved, for drinking like fish. Not a good thing. Despite this, PC is considered quite conservative. PC is also known for its core curriculum in Western Civilization. Some say it is great, others say it is boring.</p>
<p>My knowledge of Fairfield is weak. Sorry, wish I could help with that too. In general, these days, Jesuits are considered rather liberal. So, Fairfield might be more liberal than PC, but that is speculation on my part. Still, it might make a difference to you or your daughter. If so, then try to make that determination.</p>
<p>My daughter is a graduating Senior at Fairfield U. Her HS friend is graduating PC. Both love their campuses for similar reasons. Remember that your young adult will be living in the town as much as the campus and it has to feel right for them. It’s their home for four years. We are from NH. No regrets. Great school, amazing major, super support system. Also works a few jobs but manages to add a social life with a tough major. The Fairfield Campus continues to grow and it can with all the land it owns. The original Sisters of Notre Dame CT novitiate was there and sold to the Jesuits. It is now apartments, offices and the Health Center. The Health Center is not 24/7 but is outstanding. Build a spreadsheet and compare specific features aside from the education. Town, Health Center, Food, etc. What about Senior year when they want to live off campus. No decision will be wrong in the end. </p>
<p>Regarding living off campus they’re senior year…the area PC is in is not a very safe area. It’s no secret you should not leave the campus alone at night was told that by our tour guide, as well as recent graduates.</p>