I chose Brown over Harvard.

Applying to College
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<p>Does anyone know who wrote that article about a student who chose Brown over Harvard?</p>

<p>It was called, I chose Brown over Harvard. The article was phenomonal. It gave really in depth reasons as to why a kid was so much happier at Brown and was ultimately very happy that he chose not to go to Harvard.</p>

<p>The person had a sibling at Harvard and was aware of some of the experiences at Harvard. I just liked the article alot because philosophically it gave some great life lessons that it seemed Brown students have an aptitude for.</p>

<p>If you have any idea about this, let me know. Thanks.</p>

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<p>I don't know, but 11% of the people who are admitted to both Brown and Harvard (and attend one of the two) opt for Brown rather than Harvard.</p>

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<p>It seems a lot of people will opt for Brown when given the option. Pardon my ignorance, but what draws people to Brown?</p>

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<p>Their open curriculum appeals to people. Personally, I was waitlisted this year and I really wanted to attend their university this fall for that reason. Also, its atmosphere is more relaxed, from what I've heard, than the rest of the Ivy league schools.</p>

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<p><a href="http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/brown-university/385841-brown-curriculum-university-college-explained.html?highlight=modestmelody%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/brown-university/385841-brown-curriculum-university-college-explained.html?highlight=modestmelody&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>Read this and perhaps it will explain.</p>

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<p>Brown is basically the liberal arts college of the Ivy League. Harvard is more prestigious, but the two schools have phenomenally different vibes, and Brown attracts a certain type of student who wouldn't fit in so well at H.</p>

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<p>More performing and visual arts oriented friends seem to prefer Brown.</p>

<p>The RISD joint program is particularly attractive to them.</p>

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<p>
[quote]
I just liked the article alot because philosophically it gave some great life lessons. . .

[/quote]
Don't know where to locate the article you mention, but it sounds interesting.</p>

<p>There are lots of reasons to look beyond the 'name' and ‘prestige’ of a school, yet not everyone is courageous enough to choose the school that is the best fit for them, or where they would be the happiest. Also, some universities have great graduate schools, but the undergraduate education isn't as good.</p>

<p>Harvard</a> students most unhappy: poll</p>

<p>The</a> Harvard Crimson :: News :: Class of 2006 Dissatisfied with Advising, Social Experience</p>

<p>The</a> Harvard Crimson :: Opinion :: Re-Focus Advising</p>

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<p>" don't know, but 11% of the people who are admitted to both Brown and Harvard (and attend one of the two) opt for Brown rather than Harvard."</p>

<p>meaning that 89% chose Harvard.</p>

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<p>which is surprising due to the fact that Harvard is the most elite college out there...</p>

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<p>Its surprising??????????? 89% is crushing.</p>

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<p>Most elite? Please.
IMHO, it's overrated. Yes, it's one of the best colleges out there academically, but your college of choice shouldn't be decided by prestige and by what everyone else says. Go to the damn college YOU want, not what others fantasize about.
Maybe I'm bias because I would hate going to Harvard due to nothing it has to offer for me, but whatever.</p>

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<p>Remember that public perception is different from employers' perception.</p>

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<p>Prestige wise, it is the most elite. However you are correct that you shouldn't chose a school for this reason.</p>

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<p>lol DocT that would be sarcasm...</p>

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<p>I heard the undergraduate education is not very good. At my child's school 5 kids were accepted and 4 turned them down. The "prestige" factor was not enough.</p>

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<p>
[quote]
I heard the undergraduate education is not very good. At my child's school 5 kids were accepted and 4 turned them down. The "prestige" factor was not enough.

[/quote]
</p>

<p>Them? Ivy league schools you mean?</p>

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<p>Harvard ...</p>

<p>My child's school is a top boarding school.</p>

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<p>"Most elite? Please.
IMHO, it's overrated. Yes, it's one of the best colleges out there academically, but your college of choice shouldn't be decided by prestige and by what everyone else says. Go to the damn college YOU want, not what others fantasize about.
Maybe I'm bias because I would hate going to Harvard due to nothing it has to offer for me, but whatever."</p>

<p>Is there really this perception that people go to H because it is the dream school of "others?" Have people been to the school? It's far more down-to-earth than its internet reputation gives it credit for.</p>

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<p>I hear Harvard isn't one of the "best" academically for undergraduate and the only reason to go is for the prestige. I gather there are far better schools if you are looking for academics.</p>