<p>I have been admitted as a transfer applicant to Smith College and Scripps College. I'm having an incredibly difficult time trying to decide between the two. My plan is to major in American Studies and minor in Theater. </p>
<p>I live in Southern California--about 30 minutes from Claremont, where Scripps is located. I know the school well and I know that I would likely be just fine there. However, it does feel a bit too close to home for comfort, now that I've visited several times. I've not actually had the opportunity to visit Smith, but I had a great interview with an engaging alumna and I think I have a great feel for the school. I think it'd be an excellent fit. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, my parents prefer for me to stay close to home. At the same time, I don't want to live with regrets and several of my professors have told me that--for my areas of interest, in particular--Smith is the place for me to be. </p>
<p>Any advice/opinions given the information I have provided? It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.</p>
<p>Unless your parents are saying that they don’t support you financially if you go off to Smith, go for it. Follow your heart (and what your professors are saying.) </p>
<p>When I left my family to go faraway school to major in Theatre, many people thought I was crazy, thinking about future job prospects and all. IT WAS the best time of my life studying what I was truly passionate about. I’m working in totally different field now and I miss theater but I have no regret.</p>
<p>For the purposes of this discussion, I’m going to assume both are affordable. </p>
<p>I’ve found it an enriching experience to go to school far from home. Certainly it’s not a necessity, especially because the Claremont Consortium virtually ensures that there will always be events and activities going on, but still it’s been a good experience. </p>
<p>It sounds like you’d rather go to Smith both for personal and academic reasons. I’d recommend sitting down with your parents and highlighting the fact that many of your professors stated that Smith will provide you with more academic opportunities, which is ultimately the purpose of college. Also point out that within the 5 College Consortium, there are a ton of people from SoCal, and many go home during the breaks.</p>
<p>They are both excellent schools where you can have a wonderful experience and get a great education. I’d talk to your parents honestly about why you prefer Smith (try to come up with some solid reasons) and see where the conversation takes you. When you discuss Scripps let them know that you want a full college experience and even if you go to school close to home you don’t plan to come back/have them visit on weekends. Also understand that flying for college does add another layer of expense and hassle. </p>
<p>And just so you know, my S went to college about 20 minutes from home and we agreed ahead of time to act ask if he were 2 hours away (ex. we didn’t expect him home other than school vacations etc.) and it worked out really well for everyone and he absolutely had a full college experience (and then went halfway across the country for grad school!).</p>
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<p>I won’t worry about this. You’ll be enmeshed in your studies and other activities. The Claremont Colleges have a lot to offer and it’s great having the other schools right next door - no need for shuttle buses. Scripps is a great school.</p>
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<p>You really need to visit before making up your mind. Smith is a nice campus and the dorms are great. However, the environment there is a bit, let us say unique. See post below:</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/smith-college/949290-life-smith.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/smith-college/949290-life-smith.html</a></p>
<p>Also, Northampton is very cold in the winter and it’s a long walk fro, the dorms to classes/facilities - are you prepared for that?</p>
<p>Why do you think Smith will be better? I went to college 30 minutes from home. I did not go home on the weekends often, and my parents almost never came to campus - especially after my first semester.</p>
<p>I’m biased because I am not from either place, so to me the great weather and vibe of Southern Califronia sounds way better than the snowy north of Massachusetts. But if the cost is the same and you really want to attend Smith, then go for it. I would not advise going to Smith JUST because it’s the further option, though - you can grow and change and become an adult just as much 30 minutes from home as you can 3000 miles away. It depends more on your personality and experiences. But if Smith is really a better fit for you…then go for it.</p>
<p>I’ll also mention that I’m 5 years out of college and I have yet to meet anyone who was like “Man, I really regret going to my alma mater.” Most people don’t live with lifelong feelings of regret simply over the school they chose for undergrad.</p>
<p>I believe that college years are very important in shaping who you are, and getting out of your comfort zone (familiar area, family) is thus very important. I’m sure your parents would like you to stay close because they really love you and would miss you, perhaps because they fear your going far from them… but it’s your life. It’s only 4 years: use them to discover another part of the country, to experience snow, etc. Make sure you understand Smith’s specific culture though.</p>