<p>Does anyone know how Knox and L&C compare, academically and socially? They both seem to have non-mainstream student bodies, though L&C appears significantly more radical/alternative. Knox gets the edge on academic fit, L&C on affordability chances. Which is more intellectual and challenging for a high-stat student? (Shopping for safeties here.)</p>
<p>I would say Knox is very challenging academically. I would describe it easily at the academic rigor of a top 20 school, just lacking the prestige. I seriously looked into it. I would say you were right about the mainstream type student body. But it is very accepting of anyone. It also gives fantastic merit aid. It is also very personal. It is one of the best LACs in the country IMO and if it were on the east coast would easily be just as selective as schools like Bard, Bates, Kenyon and Colby. But seeing as its in the midwest, it will have to be content with being better then those schools :)</p>
<p>Keilexandra, DD2 started at L&C this year. She also applied to Knox (it was her next selection). I know the incoming class at L&C is their most competitive. At their convocation the dean of admissions stated: one incoming student was one of 100 licensed subway entertainers in NYC, another had done major work in biochem, while another had been a jazz musician composer while being all state with other instruments. It’s a very varied class. I believe DD2’s stats were similar to your own (she will study math) and she felt more comfortable at L&C, though I think much of it was the atmosphere/climate.</p>
<p>I am actually in the same exact situation: torn between Knox and Lewis & Clark. Knox is obviously better for creative writing, which is what I intend on pursuing, but L&C seems to have better opportunities, since it is in Portland, and the student body is somewhat more diverse. It also seems to have a better social life. I was wondering what you ended up deciding.</p>
<p>I think Keilexandra went to Wellesley or some other major LAC on the east coast.</p>
<p>^I ended up at Swarthmore (first choice, accepted EDII with great need-based aid). Looking back, I think I would choose Knox over L&C if finances weren’t a factor, but I’m not a fan of rain and I don’t mind rural small-town settings.</p>