And then there were two…
It’s been a process, but it looks like two frontrunners have emerged. Both have been visited, similar location as they’re each on the outskirts of a big city.
Brandeis offered me the humanities fellowship, Haverford offered me the exact same amount of money in need based aid.
They’re very different and I already know the basics of each school, but clearly that still wasn’t enough for me. I resent my indecisiveness as much as you.
Elevator pitch, any fun facts, opinions… any help is appreciated.
As a BiCo college alum, I tend to think the Quaker traditions at Haverford make it a place that someone either loves or is indifferent to. Does the Honor Code, Plenary, notions of consensus, self-determination speak to you in a deep way? If not, that could be a way to distinguish the schools and help you find your answer.
Haverford - better reputation, better location, prettier campus, the bi-Co and the Quaker Consortium, just to name a few reasons.
I definitely resonate with the honor code and ideas of self governance. The main hangup now is my parents, who believe that the humanities fellowship will look far better on resumes and grad school applications than a Haverford degree.
Although Haverford College seems to be the obvious choice, I am unfamiliar with the benefits of Brandeis’ Humanities Fellowship. If not important to you, then Haverford College & the resources of Swarthmore, Bryn Mawr & Penn should receive serious consideration.
Another factor is whether you have a strong preference for / or need to be near either Boston or Philadelphia.
What is important to you ?
In short, this comes down to personal preference.
Have you visited them both? I’m asking because I’ve seen both on the same college trip. My family loved one and wanted to love the other but just didn’t really like it. My point is that they have different vibes, one is larger, one is part of a consortium, etc. Does one just feel right to you? I think they are both great colleges, and I’d go with the one you feel is a better fit for you.
I agree that this really comes down to personal preference. Where would you be happy? Where would you thrive?