<p>Child's choice is narrowing to Dickinson or Macalester. A well rounded, hard working, good student, but one who has neither a burning "passion" for a particular major, nor a specific career goal, probably cannot go wrong at either place.<br>
But does anyone have experience with both colleges, and some useful thoughts? Please don't tell us the obvious, like Macalester is in a city and Dickinson is not. More relevant are things the distinguish the student experience -- quality of professors, contact with professors, support for a student who may consider multiple majors, are there dominant cultures on campus (jocks, intellectuals, hipsters, whatever.)
Your thoughts are most welcome.</p>
<p>My daughter is very happy at Mac and has many friends from the east coast who are happy as well. Macalester is quirky and the kids have a strong interest in human rights. My daughter has had very small classes and has really enjoyed all of the professors. Brian Rosenberg is an outstanding President. I can’t compare to Dickinson, but Mac is a wonderful place that encourages, empowers and celebrates its students. The Twin Cities have many businesses and non-profits for internships. There are other colleges and the University of Minnesota nearby with all they have to offer. Excellent restaurants, theater and sports abound in the Twin Cities. Plenty of outdoor recreation also.</p>