Any student who gets admitted to NW is likely to be “ready” for the big, bad university campus. I think the question is more what their preference is.
To be clear, I am recommending that OP go with OP’s instincts and attend Carleton College.
trying to cut the tension: Regarding “sizable campus.” In area (not buildings, or density) Carleton (without the Arb) & Northwestern seem to be of comparable size, maybe 250 acres. With the Arb, Carleton must be about 1000 acres. Obviously with all the research facilities, Northwestern has a lot more (tall) buildings and is a denser campus.
Turning down a more “prestigious” school for a school you feel is a better fit is not a crazy decision. What is the cost difference? You will feel more at home at Carleton. What matters is taking advantage of all the opportunities at Carleton and getting a good gpa. If NW doesn’t feel like home, then don’t go.
@CollegeGrad79: Carleton’s main campus is 200 acres (the arb is an additional 800 acres) for about 2,050 undergraduate students.
Northwestern University has two campuses in the Chicago area. The main campus is 231 acres. It accommodates about 8,250 undergraduates plus a higher number of graduate students. Total enrollment at NU is approximately 24,500 students some of whom are on the Chicago campus (medical & law schools).
I believe that the transition from high school to an LAC is easier than to a National University during one’s first year.
MODERATOR’S NOTE:
OK, we get it. One is an LAC and one is a university. There are pluses and minuses to each. A student may not feel equally at home at either (or she may). Regardless, for the OP, that is something she needs to consider. Let’s move on from defining terms.
@Publisher as some have already argued on this thread, not sure “ready” is how I would put it. I believe I have the tools to be successful and happy almost anywhere. I do feel like I would have an easier time finding my so-called “people” at a LAC, but I am “ready” for wherever life brings me.
Also, as I commented earlier: I’m female!
@warblersrule I’ll be attending the accepted students days. Thanks for the advice!
OP - You have two amazing options on the table. Congratulations!
I think you’ll be able to get a better sense of where you can see yourself after your accepted student days.
Not only is there a size difference, but the settings too. Even though Evanston is technically a suburb, it still has a very urban feel.
When you are on the two campuses, really think about where you see yourself fitting in the best and what feels most comfortable.
You will get an excellent education at either place. You can’t make a wrong choice.
Double majoring (in political science and economics) is doable at Carleton. You may be a bit busy your last 2 years, but they make sure that you graduate on time (in 4 years) with a double major. The profs in both departments are easily accessible. There is a Women in Economics Student group at Carleton. You may want to stop by these departments when you visit on accepted students day. Think they are both in Willis Hall. If you are curious, ask about this year’s Comps (senior projects). The Economics Department sponsors off-campus programs to Bangladesh and Cambridge and the PolSci Dept sponsors off-campus programs to SE Asia, Washington DC, Central/Eastern Europe, and the EU. Think about 2/3rds of Carleton students take part in off campus programs.