<p>I know that students work really hard at both Vassar and Grinnell, but things I've read seem to suggest that the workload at Grinnell is practically unmanageable.. I'm sure that kids have fun at Grinnell, but would you say that I would have to classify myself as a "nerdy" person to go? I like to learn, I'm just worried that perhaps I'm not intellectual enough!</p>
<p>Oh, no. My son has plenty of free time. He says some students get stressed out and he does feel like his public HS prepared him well, especially AP English, but he has tons of fun there. The great thing about Grinnell is that you don't have to act cool or intellectual or anything else. You'll be ok just as you are. They wouldn't admit you if you couldn't do the work.</p>
<p>If you were offered a scholarship, you are bright enough! Also, I don't think any of these great LACs would admit someone that couldn't handle it. They have more applicants than they know what to do with. You obviously have what it takes. Check Grinnell's website-they have support/free tutoring for calculus, chem and a writing center. D struggled with calculus this year and was relieved that the support is there for challenging courses.</p>
<p>As to nerds, other Moms with kids there can better address this one. We didn't see much of a traditional "nerd" presence with our visit. What was striking about Grinnell was how "typical college student" the kids looked.</p>
<p>My daughter is headed to Grinnell in September, and we are all so happy about it! She's dealing with the "prestige" factor by saying, when people ask where's she's going: GrinnelllitsinIowa.</p>
<p>mhny</p>
<p>If you have any questions, you can ask here or pm me. In case you can't tell, we are really thrilled with this school!</p>
<p>OP</p>
<p>I think no one here is trying to tell you that one is better than the other. They are of equally high quality, imo, and so then it's down to fit, financial and personal. Pleasure awaits, whichever you choose!</p>