<p>Hi! So i have narrowed down my decision to Carleton and Oberlin. </p>
<p>I know at both institutions I will receive a great education, even if Carleton is technically a little better ranked. I was wondering if anyone could shed light on the amount of work at Carleton. The tri-mester makes me nervous that I will always be in the "finals are approaching" mindset. I also wonder if students have time to do things outside of class and school work. </p>
<p>I have visited both and Carleton students seemed more academic focused and did not seem to be that involved outside of class. I spent two nights on campus and had the classic freshmen experience (stayed a thursday and friday), but it seemed like students as a whole did not do a whole lot outside of their studies. Another concern is that if there is that much to do and if students get bored by their third or fourth year of the campus and what the campus has to offer. </p>
<p>At oberlin, people seemed to be their social lives, academics, and other activities at a more even playing field. There also seemed to be a lot going on on campus and people seemed more mature and engaged. </p>
<p>Any advice on any college would be helpful as I am running out time! </p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Carleton’s definitely going to have you working hard but my favorite thing about this college is that everyone (or nearly everyone) is passionate about what they’re studying so working and reading in some way is fun and interesting. The top-notch professors definitely help spark students’ interest in topics. I would argue that we actually do a lot outside of our studies but academics, as it should be, is our top priority. Maybe your hosts had a lot of work to do that weekend you were visiting? As you can probably tell, I’m a Carleton student and I don’t think your average student gets bored by their third or fourth year. There’s actually so much that Carleton offers but honestly, sometimes we have to prioritize work over play. Hope this helps!</p>
<p>It seems like your concerns are more towards Carleton, but posted in the Oberlin forum? Maybe that tells you something about where your subconscious really wants you to go, haha. </p>
<p>I won’t speak for Carleton because I don’t know much about it, but your impression of Oberlin is accurate! Very engaged campus with lots going on. I also firmly believe that most* college students aren’t really as busy as they want you to believe, no matter what college you are at. I’m sure you will have time to do many things outside of class and school work at Carleton or Oberlin. Sorry I’m not that much help, but I would x-post on the Carleton board and you’ll probably get better answers. They are both great choices, good luck deciding!</p>
<p>*Obviously not all, no offense to anyone who is actually busy like student-athletes and students who have time-consuming jobs</p>