I have no idea how to decide. I have visited both, loved both, and can see myself at both. Cost is equal, so that’s not a deciding factor. The travel time to/from is not significantly different. I was hoping I would just “know” which was for me when I walked on campus, but again, I can see myself at both. Similar concern at both–I’m not a partier (alcohol or drugs) and prefer not to hang out with people while they are drunk/high. Not sure how much drugs/alcohol truly influence social scene/culture at either school. I really want to go to a school that has an “inclusive” vibe…for the plain jane geeky/nerdy kids. Any advice or first hand experiences to help me decide? Any idea on strength either school’s alumni network? Thanks.
They are similarly outstanding schools. Just based on your self-description about alcohol/drugs/partying, I would suggest maybe Wesleyan. There’s plenty of all that at both schools (and many others), but based on what I know about both schools, you might find more like-minded students at Wesleyan (not to knock Hamilton, I was also extremely impressed by the school). The Wesleyan vibe seems a little more along the lines you are describing about yourself. Good luck!
Hey I haven’t been to college in 20 years. But friends children have recently attended both. My opinion and it’s just that. Wesleyan probably has more individualistic students to connect with. But there is definitely plenty of weed being smoked there too Maybe a bit more than Hamilton. Does that even count as partying anymore? Not sure.
Wesleyan is actually about twice the size of Hamilton (3000 vs. 1800 u/g). It’s science departments are somewhat larger, too (8 vs. 12 full-time professors in Physics, for example.) Plenty of room for different sorts of people (it was called, “diversity university” long before it was fashionable.) Although, TBH, you probably can’t go wrong at either place.
Hamilton offers a good amount of substance-free housing – in some really nice residence halls – which could indicate something about the proclivities of their students. As might relate to your academic pursuits, their well-equipped science building, the largest academic building on campus, offers an appealing common area for casual interaction and collaborative study. In terms of overall campus character, Hamilton has a bit of an Adirondack, call-of-the-wild appeal. If you might have an inner Buck to channel, the school could be perfect for you. I’d concur, though, that you have two great choices here.
Was that a “buck” the mongrel turned pack leader reference right there
Well played @merc81
Not sure it’s a widely read as it once was. Jack London was my Harry Potter
– The Call of The Wild
Yes, that Buck, @privatebanker.
My godson is now down to these 2 college choices as well and similarly wants to avoid the drug scene. He is definitely a funny and content nerd. You too may end up at the same school. I’m following the answers here. Good luck with your decision.