Skidmore vs. Mount Holyoke

College Search & Selection
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1

I am currently deciding between Skidmore and Mount Holyoke College and I would appreciate anyone’s input. I am undecided on a major and cost is about the same, so that isn’t an issue.

Skidmore
Pros:

  • Saratoga Springs is a nice area
  • I like having business as an option for a major (in case I decide to go that route) while still being at a smaller liberal arts school
  • Nice housing options for upperclassman

Cons:

  • I’ve heard about the student body being cliquey and segregated between artsy and sporty students. I wouldn’t consider myself either, although I suppose I lean more towards the artsy than sporty side. I am also pretty introverted which makes making friends a little difficult, so I am concerned about being left out if I don’t have a niche.
  • Large focus on theatre/art, which I don’t intend to pursue

Mount Holyoke
Pros:

  • Access to the 5 college consortium
  • Supportive and accepting community
  • Has a large international student population and is more diverse

Cons:

  • It is kind of in the middle of nowhere and doesn’t have much going on in the town
  • It is a women’s college, which I’m not sure that I want. I support the LGBTQ+ community and I know there is a large presence at MHC, but I am not a part of it. Will it be more difficult socially due to this?
2

I visited Skidmore twice with my D21, and I’ve been to Mount Holyoke also. They are both wonderful schools—congratulations! Have you been able to visit?

Here’s my two cents: With both schools, you’re going to get small classes, easy access to great professors, and a real sense of community. Both schools are about 2,300 students, and both are in beautiful settings with a lot of nature on campus. Mount Holyoke is older with picturesque, traditional buildings, and Skidmore is newer.

For my D21, the big decision was whether she wanted a women’s college. She is an introvert and although she has wonderful friends, she hasn’t had much experience dating. She decided that she would like to have the option to date male classmates, so she let go of the idea of a women’s school. I’m sure she could have found ways to date at a women’s college, but she felt like she might not extend herself to meet people off campus.

I’m sure others here know the schools better and will offer other perspectives. You really can’t go wrong with two great choices though!