St. Olaf vs. Lake Forest for Chem and/or Psych

Hello everyone,

I am an international student who got admitted with similar financial packages to the aforementioned colleges.

I like how both of them are close to major cities, Minneapolis and Chicago, respectively; however, I prefer Chicago since there is more to do there.

I am looking for a whole college experience and not just strict rigorous program. I am afraid that St. Olaf might not provide a good study-life balance or be not as welcoming as Lake Forest. Also, the other incoming students to Lake Forest felt nicer in general.

On the other hand, St. Olaf is ranked more highly and has better food and housing which is vital for me living on campus for 4 years. Plus, current students say that they still have a good study-life balance despite being on a “dry” campus. Also, I met some great current and incoming students here!

They both have great science facilities which makes it harder to decide.

Aside from the obvious differences of size, location and originating religious affiliation, please help me choose!!

Thanks in advance,
Mai

For similar costs, I’d pick St Olaf. The students we know who went there loved their time on campus. Very warm and supportive environment.

PS. Most US colleges have dry campuses since most students are under age.

I agree that St. Olaf is prob the better school academically. OTOH, Chicago is a happening place for job opportunities. While I love the Twin Cities, Chicago is a major city on the world stage. Lake Forest offers greater opportunity there.

Technically @momofsenior1 is correct in that US campuses are generally “dry” but we all know from a practical perspective this is far from what really happens. Most US campuses have lots of alcohol and/or pot smoke, and/or other drugs. The cultures vary greatly. Princeton Review publishes lists each year of campus culture related to drug, alcohol, and pot use and which are “dry”.

In addition, after two years (about), many college students are legally allowed to drink.

St. Olaf is more “dry” than most other campuses (with the exception of like West Point and Brigham Young) in that this is the culture of the campus. However, from what I’ve read elsewhere on this forum, St. Olaf is not so much “dry” as “slightly damp” or perhaps “moist.” In other words, some students still indulge.