<p>What do you guys think of Oberlin, academics-wise? I visited campus and I liked it, so that's not really a problem. I'm from a subub in the Northeast; most people don't leave the area for college. Very few people know about Oberlin (only some adults). I also can consider WPI and Brandeis but I'm hesistant due to the lack of diversity (WPI = too many men, Brandeis = too Jewish, nothing against either..just not diverse). There's also UMASS Amherst (honors college). Is Oberlin above UMASS, WPI, and Brandeis academically? (I was waitlisted at Carleton and Tufts :(, which were my top choices)</p>
<p>Oh, and I'm probably going to major in biology (maybe go onto vet college, but most likely grad school in some form).</p>
<p>I guess I just need some reassurance about Oberlin since I applied not knowing much about it. Will I get a superior education there?</p>
<p>You will get a great education at Oberlin. It's a top notch LAC that is at LEAST as good as the other schools you mentioned, if not better. It’s a very intellectual environment (it’s a really big producer of PhDs, I believe). One of my parents works at a top university, and Oberlin is well liked among their colleges…and one of their colleagues says it’s their favorite school in the country for undergrad education! While most wouldn’t go that far, I think it’s safe to say Oberlin is well respected by those in the know and a very strong school.</p>
<p>Yes, Oberlin offers a first-rate education. My kid has had an amazing first year, with challenging classes and smart, fun fellow students. The fact that it also has a top music conservatory and one of the best college art museums and library collections adds to the value of the experience. Oberlin, along with Carlton, Reed, Swarthmore, and a few other liberal arts colleges, sends a larger percentage of students on to graduate programs than other institutions of its size. Oberlin also has a long history of social engagement (one of the first to admit women and African-Americans) and remains committed to those values.</p>
<p>According to a survey done a few years ago, Oberlin was the #1 choice in the country for the children of college professors. That should tell you something. As Weskid says, it's at least as strong academically as all the other schools you mentioned, including Carleton and Tufts, no question.</p>