Smith versus UVM?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>So, very happily, my family's financial situation has changed and Smith and UVM (two of my top choices) are now real possibilities. However, this has presented an entirely new problem: I'm having a really hard time choosing between them. Financially, they're about the same-- I'd be taking out a little over $10,000 in debt by graduation for each of them. Other than that, though, they each have a very different pro/con list.</p>

<p>Smith I really love Smith's atmosphere, and I like Northampton (it's reasonably close to a real city, haha, which does matter to me). When I did accepted students day, I felt like I fit in and could really see myself there. I love the open curriculum and the campus is gorgeous. I also really dig the house system. However, I'm really interested in International Relations, and Smith doesn't offer this major. I'd have to do Government with an International Relations focus, which doesn't seem ideal. It does have a Quidditch team, though :) I also got the vibe that it was a little more "intellectual" (I hope this doesn't come off as pretentious, as it's not meant to) than UVM, which I liked; I want to be academically challenged.</p>

<p>UVM There are a few arguments for UVM. The main one is that they offer the perfect major for me, Community & International Development. It's pretty unique and is a BS, not a BA, which I've heard will be more useful when it comes to jobs. Careerwise, I want to do international development with an NGO in west/central Africa, and the program seems like a perfect fit. I'm also in the honors college at UVM, which offers some cool opportunities and brand new dorms. When I visited, I felt (just like at Smith) super comfortable and got a really good vibe.</p>

<p>If it helps, socially I'm liberal and very into social justice/human rights. It's important to me that my college is active in politics and international issues. I want a diverse student body that is passionate about both academics and world issues. I'm going to stop now because this is getting way too cheesy!</p>

<p>I'm interested in hearing what you guys have to say about the decision. I know they're really different schools, but I could honestly see myself really happy at either. I know Smith is a bit more prestigious, but that's not something that is super important to me-- I want to go where I'll get a great education and be happy. Thanks in advance for the help!</p>

2

<p>I like UVM and Burlington a lot, but I’d be careful about choosing a school primarily for one major. 55-60% of college students change their major in college.</p>

3

<p>I’m fairly confident in the major-- it’s something I’ve been pretty passionate about/focused on since 5th or 6th grade. However, you’re right, people do change. That’s one of the things making this decision hard!</p>

<p>How do you guys feel about the BS vs BA debate? Is a BS really more marketable?</p>

4

<p>SMITH SMITH SMITH SMITH…seriously do yourself a favor and go to Smith - and take classes in the five college consortium (AMHERST!)</p>

5

<p>thanks! i’m leaning smith too but i don’t know…</p>

<p>bump?</p>

6

<p>I don’t think that BS vs BA makes any difference at all. </p>

<p>While people seem to like UVM a lot and Burlington is by all reports a cool town, I think you would find that the intellectual, passion-for-social-justice vibe you seek is much stronger at Smith.</p>