Brandeis doesn’t lack diversity. It is incrementally more diverse, racially, than Grinnell, but both are quite diverse in terms of their US student population and both have a substantial international student population as well.
And while Canada is different from the US, it’s rather a stretch to call McGill “exotic”…
All that said, I think it’s a close call between Grinnell and Brandeis, and I could easily see the opportunity to play soccer tipping the scales toward Grinnell, especially given its considerable academic strength as well. For humanities and grad/law school aspirations, I would lean Grinnell. You cite study abroad options for Brandeis, but there’s no shortage of those at Grinnell. And a good merit package is more predictable than having need-based aid re-evaluated each year. I would give Iowa a chance. But Brandeis is a fine option too if you decide that it’s a better fit! McGill is a great school but I don’t see you citing strong reasons to go there other than possibly graduating early (?) and affordability (why is it so cheap - are you a Canadian citizen?).
Is soccer at Grinnell important to you? My kid was offered a roster spot with Coach Jaws and would have gone ED in an instant if he could have gotten his test scores to the required level (Grinnell’s top 25%). Jaws seems like a GREAT guy – warm, clearly cares about his players. And playing a sport is a great way to both maintain structure in your schedule, for someone who is used to that discipline, and a great way to have an “instant family.” Although it was a few years ago and they would have all graduated by now, my kid really liked the Grinnell soccer guys – down to earth guys and, when my kid had a meal with the team, it was not just the team, it was a bunch of their friends from all across campus. I’m confident Jaws is recruiting the same kind of guys to the team now.
And Brandeis has easy access for internships, entertainment etc…in the vibrant city of Boston together with over 100,000 UG and grad students. Also D3 sports so a walk on to team might be possible.
Brandeis of course! Named after Justice Brandeis. Even better since you aspire to go to law school.
And although you may aspire to play soccer for the Judges, I agree a walk on is extremely unlikely.
Congrats @Collagecid !! I have a little pang of jealousy and am SO excited for you!! DD had Grinnell in her top three on the list to decide. A secret part of me wishes she chose Grinnell. It is SUCH a special school. I think you’re going to have an amazing 4 years!!! Go Pioneers!!!
