I’m strongly considering attending Brown next year. I am a little hesitant, however, because of the following:
-I’m not extremely political. I do have strong opinions regarding current issues and I have been to a few marches/things of that nature, but I’m not super involved with it. I know Brown is known for having a very political student body, and I can definitely see that in the group chat we have lol. I think it’s really good that there’s a more political climate and I would love to learn more and be more involved, but I just don’t want other people to be like annoyed or whatever at me and think that I’m ignorant because I don’t know as much about this kind of stuff as they do.
-This could apply to any college - but I don’t party and I’ve literally never had alcohol or used drugs in my life. I’m not someone who is looking for a super academic atmosphere, but I don’t want to be limited with regards to the social aspect because I’m not really into that kind of stuff.
-I don’t really do great in super stressful environments - right now I kind of create my own pressure on myself to do well, but if people around me are super stressed, I get really stressed as well. Also, I’m worried that I’ll literally be the dumbest person there - I’m the kind of person who has done well in HS because I work really hard, not because I’m naturally smart; I literally have so much trouble understanding things. I’m just worried because at Brown everyone will be intelligent AND motivated (which I know is the case at most colleges lol) but I’m just concerned that I will literally be the least intelligent person there (and I know from experience that that doesn’t feel great lol!!).
@margaret1515 I think the students will be more chill and less intense. It is common to have the “Imposter Syndrome” and think that you are not smart enough. They wouldn’t have picked you if you were not capable. What do you like to do?
What gearmom said is true. I guarantee you that all those other students also had to work really hard and they are just as worried as you are about not being able to keep up. They wouldn’t have chosen you, if they didn’t think you could handle the work. By the way, if there are some people who were able to skate by with great grades and no work, they will most probably flounder when put in an environment where everyone is as smart as they are and motivated! The skills you developed in working hard are a huge asset.
On the other hand, not everyone thrives in a super competitive environment. There is no shame in wanting something a little less intimidating. Being a big fish in a smaller pond has some huge benefits, depending on what you are interested in studying. What is your intended major? Do you have other college choices?
@margaret1515 : You are perfect for Brown. I can see why Adcoms pick you … you have excellent academics, you work hard, you have a spike - speed skating, and you intend to major in an under-enrolled major - physics. Although you don’t have a lot of APs, nor do a lot of people who are admitted to Brown. At top elite schools, you are guaranteed to meet true geniuses but not everyone is true genius. Brown’s grading system is fair so you will get the grades you deserve. 52% of grades in the Physical Sciences are As. It is not too bad. I would say Brown is the least stressful Ivy based on institutional research results. The first semester is important. You should pick at most two STEM courses to get familiar with the environment. You are definitely not the least intelligent person on campus. You are an average excellent students on campus. Thanks to “holistic” admissions policy, there are at least 25% of students who have lower stats than you. Some people do use substances at dorms but there is no pressure at all. People have freedom to destroy themselves and you can just ignore them. Have fun and enjoy your freshman year.
@margaret1515 : you have said “Midd was my top, but I was waitlisted”. But in your case, I believe it is easy to get off the wait list and go to your top. Just write a letter explaining that you truly would like to go to Midd and if they don’t accept you, you would have to settle for other less desired schools like Brown. You promise if you were taken off the wait list , you would definitely attend. You are full pay, which makes your offer even more attractive. These days wait list is a strategy to protect yield. With an over-qualified candidate so anxious to attend, they would definitely move you to the top of the list. You might even hear form them before April 30. There are so many people who are so anxiously waiting for a slot for Brown. You create a win-win situation. Best luck to you.
@nrtlax33 Thanks for the advice…over the past week I’ve really thought about it and I don’t think a small LAC would be the right environment for me anymore; I think a mid-sized school will be a better fit. I am actually not full pay…just curious, did I write that somewhere? If so, it was a mistake, sorry 
@margaret1515 : You said you don’t need financial aids at http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/discussion/comment/21305408/#Comment_21305408
Anyway, I believe Brown is the perfect fit school for you. I am very impressed with the teaching quality. I am extremely picky in terms of quality so you can trust this is reliable information. Welcome to Brown.