<p>Although Swarthmore is a difficult school, it is definitely not cut-throat. Exactly the opposite, actually. Swatties are generally extremely friendly and cooperative. When deciding between Chicago and Swarthmore (among a couple others) back in high school, I leaned toward Swarthmore specifically because it was more laid-back. Like most kids, Swatties regularly kick back and relax; academics are important but not everything.</p>