I have received acceptances from both Kenyon and Brown, which are similar distances from me and very close in cost. I just can’t decide where I should attend.
I plan to major in neuroscience, and Brown has one of the top undergraduate neuroscience programs in the nation. However, the smaller size of Kenyon would give me greater opportunity for individual research, which is important for my long-term goal of getting into a MD/PhD program.
Also, I have be hoping to go to Kenyon all year, since I enjoyed the size and feel of tge college. However, I loved Brown too, but didn’t consider it a serious option because of its selectivity.
Finally, I worry that since I come from a mediocre public high school in a town of 5,000 people, the academic rigor of Brown might be a shock. I don’t want this to stop me from going to a strong college, it’s just something to be taken into consideration.
Any advice? Small private liberal arts college or an Ivy?
Brown: Breadth and depth through a range of academic disciplines. Relative proximity to major east coast cities. Prestige associated with high selectivity.
Kenyon: Exclusively undergraduate focused. Spatially luxuriant. Beautiful campus, including athletics complex. IPHS courses seem to offer some the country’s best integrated academic options.
@mde1111 I just thought I would pop in and note that studies find that students who are accepted into ivies but choose to attend less selective institutions, and people who actually attend ivies have essentially the same outcomes, so that’s smart of you for not just immediately choosing Brown for the prestige.
Have you visited both campuses? Which has the better “vibe” to you?
I visited both last summer, and they were actually each wonderful in a different way. Kenyon had a smaller community feel, while Brown had a relaxed yet incredibly intellectual vibe. Until I got the Brown acceptance a few days ago I was relatively sure I was going to Kenyon, since I was expecting a rejection from Brown. However, Brown has the Brown Institute for Brain Science, which is pretty awesome. I plan to visit both colleges again in the next few weeks to try to make a final decision.
Thanks for the help on my decision! I visited Brown for the ADOCH admitted students program, and I loved it! Although they are both great schools, I have decided to commit to Brown. I can’t wait to start in September!