To pose one potential counter-argument to the “more diverse” = “more inclusive” premise… there can be advantages for a lower-income student in attending a more self-contained school where most activities take place on campus and thus involve no out-of-pocket costs. On campuses where students frequently go off campus to shop, eat out, etc., those with less spending money can feel more marginalized when they always have to weigh whether they can afford to join in. I don’t know if this difference plays out at Williams vs. Amherst specifically, or whether the financial aid at both is so solid that conservative incidental spending won’t be a big issue… but this can be the flip side of “there’s so much to do near campus.”
Aquapt has a point ^ At rural colleges, students spend more time doing free activities on campus and there is very little need for much spending money. Another consideration for someone with anxiety is that a rural environment can be calming. But some who grow up in cities do not like it at all. Imagine yourself at both places–where do you feel more content?
Which is easier to get to with pubic transportation? Which one is closer? You can also probably get rides from other students who live in a similar area.
With a lot of relief for sure, I can now say that I’m attending Williams in the fall! Again, thank you all so much for helping me find the questions I needed to ask myself.
I was leaning towards Williams recently but, I just had to… flip a coin (seriously, best of 3). The best I can do for myself is not look back and if I need to, then I know I have other options in the future. It means a lot that some of you helped me despite my wacky questions and wording.
Welp, back to AP exam review…
So happy for you! Congratulations!
Congratulations! Enjoy!
=D> =D> =D>
Congratulations!
Well done, and cheers to you!
(And hang in there with the AP tests!)
Congratulations. You were down to two very good choices, and Williams is lucky to get you!
OP, you come across as quite bright and thoughtful. Best wishes. It’s one step at a time. When you face your new situation, try to remember that. You have the goods.
@snowleopard2022, Congrats! I agree with the above – you’re going to do well. Good luck with the AP’s!
Congratulations to you, snowleopard! How very exciting! Don’t worry if you find yourself second guessing your decision. You’ve made it, and doubts and concerns are normal, but you just need to keep moving forward. Feel free to pm if you get anxious, or whatever. We are all rooting for you!
So much to explore in the next 4 years! Stay open and be kind to yourself to keep stress down. Wishing you tons of luck.
Congrats, @snowleopard2022! Look what you have done: successfully navigated the complex and challenging college admissions process. Really, if you can make it through this, registration for first year classes is going to be a breeze!
A couple of helpful hints:
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as @Lindagaf said, don’t look back! You have made an objectively reasonable choice, from a great set of choices- nothing to second guess. When you get to some bumpy bits in the autumn (b/c there will be some), remember that there would be bumpy bits no matter what choice you made- b/c that’s life!
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No matter how cool they look, no matter what you think you know about them, every.single.first year is at least a little anxious - you are not alone.
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College is not high school, and most people have some wobbles in adapting, whether personally / academically / both. This is not a time to let pride get in the way: get help early and often. College moves fast, so when you get all those new student materials, go through them & ID all of the support systems- peer counselors / peer tutors / writing centers / how TA or prof office hours work / etc. Do not be shy about using them- that’s what they are there for.
Have a great adventure!
I’ll definitely keep your advice and support in mind. I can’t believe how people I have never met in person, who would otherwise have no reason to help me, have supported me so much! Someone that is designated to help me with college couldn’t even provide me with this.
^ That’s what we’re here for!
congratulations again!
If you peruse the various advice threads on CC, you can see how easy it can be for these threads to go off the rails. The fact that this one hasn’t is a testament to your grace, @snowleopard2022 , in handling a whole herd of adults and their questions, ideas, and opinions. You made your needs and priorities clear, handled questions and challenges without defensiveness, and utilized what was helpful without getting distracted by what was not. You may experience challenges with social anxiety and social situations, but you have certainly shown a level of maturity and social skill in this setting that are not to be discounted. Keep making those strengths work for you and you will soar at Williams and beyond.
Congrats to you!!! Go be awesome and rock it!!
Congrats @snowleopard2022 <:-P Best wishes!
Congrats @snowleopard2022! I’m sure it’s a relief to have that decision made.
Best of luck @snowleopard2022 for a wonderful college experience. I hope you get involved in lots of interesting activities and take your time to find the right group of people for you. Please come back with an update next year!
Congratulations!
Williams is so lucky 
as well as all your future classmates