<p>Hi! I'm an international Thai student. Now, I'm studying at prep school in MA.
I'm amking decision whether to go to Swarthmore or U. of Chicago. My major is econs for sure. What do u guys think I should go?</p>
<p>We can't tell you.</p>
<p>Academics: Dead tie. They are both known as very academically-oriented schools with students who enjoy rigorous courses and professors who are happy to oblige.</p>
<p>Economics: Deat tie. UChicago is famous for its Econ depart. Econ. is Swarthmore's largest department and they produce more future PhDs in economics per 1000 undergrads than any other school in the country.</p>
<p>Social scene: Both have below average amounts of drinking, a lot of diversity (especially Asian), and students who are viewed as being a little bit geeky (i.e. intellectual).</p>
<p>Your choice really boils down to a couple of factors:</p>
<p>Do you prefer a larger schools (4000+ undergrads) or a very small school (1450 undergrads)? The smaller school will give you a more personal, mentoring type of education with extremely small classes, personal relationships with professors, so forth. </p>
<p>Although they are both located in close-in neighborhoods of pretty large cites with easy train access to downtown, Swarthmore's campus is more secluded and peaceful (it is positively stunning, actually), Chicago's more urban. I do think Chicago is a fabulous city, but more in summer than the winter.</p>
<p>Do you prefer a very tight, supportive community (Swarthmore's biggest strong point) or a larger student body where you may have to fend for yourself and find your own "circle" of friends?</p>
<p>How 'bout weather? Swarthmore's weather is somewhat milder than Massachusetts with longer fall, less winter, less snow, and earlier spring. Chicago's winter is harsher than Massachusetts, definitely more snow, wind and cold.</p>
<p>I don't think you could go wrong with either school. My daughter chose Swarthmore and I probably would too, just because I think the small undergrad college is a friendlier, more supportive environment and there is value in the very small classes and one-on-one mentoring that occurs. But, I certainly could argue it the other way, too. Just depends what kind of kid you are and where you think you would be more at home.</p>