<p>D is deciding between these two very good schools for this fall.
All things being equal, which is better based on the following criteria:
1. Biological sciences (Pre-Med or Grad school in Bio-sciences)
2. People (Friendliness, Diversity)
3. Campus life - outdoors, clubs, intra-mural sports
4. Variety of course offerings
5. Research opportunities
If all things were NOT equal (e.g. one school offered $9K more than the other), does that change things?</p>
<p>My D considered both schools and chose Oberlin. I’m sure she would have been happy at Bates, but Oberlin was the better choice for her. Obviously, I am better informed about Oberlin, but here are my impressions:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Biology and Neuroscience are extremely strong at Oberlin and the variety of courses available is greater than at many other similar schools (including Bates when we looked). My D has done research with a professor since freshman year, has gotten great internships as a result, and has gotten fantastic support. Pre-health advising will work with students as soon as they get to campus, and supports all students interested in health careers, not just those meeting a certain criteria. Oberlin grads go on to receive Ph.Ds at a higher rate than just about any liberal arts college (and most Ivies).</p></li>
<li><p>I found the Oberlin students to be quite a bit more diverse, but Bates and Oberlin students both seem to be friendly and accepting.</p></li>
<li><p>I got a strong outdoor vibe from Bates. There are lots of clubs and participation at Oberlin. They have intramurals, but I don’t know much about them. They also have a large number of experimental college classes you can take on a variety of topics.</p></li>
<li><p>I mentioned this above regarding the bio-sciences. Oberlin is slightly larger and will probably have more course offerings, but the course catalogs for both schools are online and you can compare the departments you are interested in.</p></li>
<li><p>There are many opportunities for research at Oberlin. Students are authors or coauthors of published papers and some will travel to conferences to present their work. Winter term is a great time to become involved with research.</p></li>
<li><p>Any difference in cost will have to be weighed against your own personal financial situation. I think an Oberlin education is money well spent.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Thanks flexflyer. D really likes Oberlin, but it looks like she’ll be going to Bates. The difference in aid is just too much to ignore. Oh well, Oberlin’s loss is Bates’ gain, coz she really is a great kid.</p>
<p>Did you ask Oberlin to match the Bates deal? They will often consider this!</p>
<p>Any other thoughts on Bates v. Oberlin?</p>