<p>My daughter is very interested in this college which just came to our attention during the presidential debates in June. While on vacation in the area this summer, we visited the school and I must say we were both impressed. For a Catholic girl majoring in political science and wanting an east coast school, Saint Anselm seems perfect. It was actually one of her safety schools but is quickly moving to the top of her list. I would love to hear what CC posters have to say. Thanks in advance</p>
<p>Hi Kamqmom -<br>
I am familiar with St. A's (affectionately referred to as St. C's due to grade deflation). Locally the school has a reputation for good academics, but it is certainly not an academic powerhouse. The acceptance rate, as you probably know is quite high and for a B to B- student it may be a good match. From my anectodal experience, the staff is very nuturing and supportive of students needing help to transition to college or struggling academically. Sponsoring high level political debates has more to do location - NH (first in the nation primary) then the poli sci program.<br>
Several kids I know transferred out of St. A's because of the very strict rules about alcohol and parietals. For some students strict rules may be welcome others may resent it.
American University would be higher on my list for poli sci --</p>
<p>Thanks for the quick response daffymom. nothing we didn't already know but it's good to hear it from someone more familiar with the school.</p>
<p>My D's stats are high by Saint Anselm's standards but we are hoping that might mean merit aid :)</p>
<p>Honestly, I don't think she would be bothered by parietals or a strict alcohol policy. I am more concerned that she would be unhappy with a lower level of academics. Trite as it may sound, she really "loves to learn" and is looking forward to the exchange of ideas in the classroom as well as late night debates in the dormroom. Saint Anselm's core requirements with the Humanities, Portraits of Human Greatness, etc. sound right up her alley.</p>
<p>My D is visiting American next month. She spent 10 days in DC this summer and absolutely LOVED it. Stayed at Catholic University and while not terribly impressed, she is going to visit there as well since it is difficult to judge a school in the summer and she will be right in the city anyhow. She is also interested in Fordham and as a reach, Wellesley. </p>
<p>We were both just quite taken with Saint Anselm and it keeps coming up in our conversations.</p>