<p>I'm looking for opinions regarding the differences of these two schools, does anyone have any opinions on the social scene of each campus? The academic rigor? Thanks!! :)</p>
<p>They’re kind of different. Wesleyan is nearly twice Swarthmore’s size and is located in a more diverse neighborhood. The social scene revolves around house parties – some quiet, some quite raucous. By the end of sophomore year, students usually have enough housing “points” to select one of 150 different theme houses, fraternities (most are co-ed), or ordinary “wood-frames” providing small scale living spaces along with kitchens. Food shopping, cooking and hosting parties are a big part of Wesleyan life.</p>
<p>Swarthmore is in a very swanky suburb of Philadelphia and other than occasional shopping sprees at some big-box stores located down Baltimore Pike, the social scene consists almost entirely of college-sponsored events. There is a train station on campus and people are said to visit Philadelphia frequently. But, Swarthmore is really no different than any other LAC: there’s a definite bubble and when that gets to be too much, you can hop a train.</p>
<p>Academic rigor is probably more a topic of conversation at Swarthmore. The students there often complain of grade deflation. It’s difficult to get an “A” at Wesleyan, too, but people don’t seem to dwell on it as much. A lot depends on your major.</p>