I have a tough choice to make. I am interested in eventually winding up a music instructor, and have been admitted to Ithaca College and University of Puget Sound (undergrad). I’m from the East Coast, but really liked the Pacific Northwest when I visited. BUT it’s a really long way across the country… After visiting both places, I kind of feel like I “SHOULD” go to Ithaca (probably a stronger music program), but I overall “REALLY LIKED” Puget Sound better!
Anyone with any input about either Ithaca or Puget Sound with a music perspective? Quality of life at one place vs. the other?
I don’t have any direct experience with either school, but U of Puget Sound is a terrific LAC. If you haven’t already, you should read its in-depth profile in the book “Colleges that Change Lives.”
Ithaca is a good school, and it’s in a great college town. One thing to consider, aside from geography, is where you would be most happy. Ithaca is small compared to a public flagship, but it’s significantly larger than an LAC. At Puget Sound, you’d be in a more intimate environment (though it is on the larger side for a “small” LAC), with more access and guidance from faculty, all of whom are committed to undergraduate teaching.
Yes, the west coast is far away, and one does have to keep in mind traveling expenses and hauling dorm stuff such a long distance, but if both colleges are within your family’s budget, I wouldn’t let geography hold you back. Hopefully, others who do know these colleges better can offer more specific advice.
Sorry can only answer for UPS. The music program is solid but not what you would get at Ithaca. The school is lovely and is in a great location. Tacoma is a cool city with unique neighborhoods and a thriving waterfront and Seattle is 30 min down the road. Is there a cost difference? I know UPS gives out a lot of merit. I think I recall an issue when we toured last year that merit couldn’t be used for study abroad…not sure if that has been resolved. I live in PNW but went to school in upstate NY. The weather here is much better though it can be gray for a lot of the winter months.