Hi everyone! I’m currently deciding between Smith and Vassar, and any input would be helpful at this point. I was given a Zollman scholarship + STRIDE at Smith (don’t qualify for financial aid), but I’m instinctively leaning towards Vassar at the moment. A little bit about me:
• I’m considering majoring in biology and/or anthropology
• I’m interested in joining some kind of music ensemble and doing community service, but I’m not very athletic
• I’m quite liberal/leftist and definitely want some degree of activism in the student culture but not at the expense of expression. That is, I would hope there is culture of open discussion and respect even if someone’s values do not necessarily align with your own
• Looking for a close-knit, supportive, collaborative community and an academic environment that is rigorous and intellectual but not so stressful that there’s no time for other pursuits (extracurriculars, etc.)
• I’m also most likely going to grad school, so does one have a better reputation/advising?
• Also Smith has almost twice the endowment of Vassar- is that important in any way?
• Not sure about all women vs co-ed
I don’t have the opportunity to visit, so any information at all about general student culture, social life, campus vibe, etc. would be very helpful! 
I was going to suggest you visit both until I read at the end that you don’t have the opportunity to do so. They are both great schools and you will likely find what you are looking for at either of them. I would think each has a different feel, although they are both liberal LACs with strong music programs. Visiting would help give you the chance to see if one appeals to you more than the other, so if there is any way you can swing it, you should try. Did Smith offer to pay for you to visit since you are a STRIDE?
I’m not as familiar with Vassar, but I can tell you the STRIDE opportunity has been fabulous for my D. She loves her research, is learning a lot, and she got to start it during her first week at Smith without having to wait even a semester. Her advising has been very personalized and she has already connected with other profs besides her advisor. She also is involved in the two music ensembles and really enjoys those as well. Northampton is pretty cool, too. It’s been a great choice for her.
The good news is that you can’t go wrong with either school. :-*
Consider location too. Vassar is more isolated in the sense that it doesn’t have the equivalent of the 5 College consortium. It is also co-ed, so longer places a special emphasis on women.
Endowment is an interesting thing. Vassar has a smaller endowment but is famously generous when it comes to financial aid. That’s not really a major consideration.
Both are excellent colleges. You cannot really go wrong.
If money is an issue and you are going to grad school, you should consider the cheaper option since both schools are great. You also seem like a great fit for both schools
If money is not an issue, I would lean heavily towards Vassar. Great academics, tight knit community, less than 2 hours to NYC, and co-ed.