<p>Any insight would be appreciated. both academically and sports</p>
<p>I like both schools, although I have some "full disclosure issues" regarding Taft's college placement. These are two of the best schools in the country with respect to academics and the intellectual quality of the students. Hotchkiss is an academic powerhouse school approaching, or equal to, the intensely demanding & rewarding curriculums found at Groton, St. Paul's School & Andover. Hotchkiss students are very hardworking and brilliant. Taft is often associated with elitism--in all the good & admirable respects--and tradition. Hotchkiss has some great athletic teams and amazing athletic facilities. You cannot make a wrong choice between these two schools regarding academic opportunities. Hotchkiss kids love their school. The Taft School loves their students.(P.S. If you are not willing to work hard in an academically challenging atmosphere, then I would be reluctant to recommend Hotchkiss as the students are as hardworking as they are brilliant.) Taft has an elegance reflected in its traditions which adds a sense of warmth to the atmosphere & culture of the school. Try to attend the revisits at both schools and, in my opinion, you will know which of the two is better for you.</p>
<p>Do you believe college placement is not very good at Taft? Do you believe Hotchkiss to be overly competetive between students, is there a better sense of community at one over the other?</p>
<p>Hotchkiss is much preppier, more elitist and draws heavily from wealthy families in the NYC area. Taft is less preppy, more laid-back (relatively speaking) and draws heavily from Fairfield County. Both have good sports (depending on your sport) they compete with Deerfield, Loomis and Choate (much larger schools with significantly more PGs). You will have to work hard at either place. Hotchkiss has a buccolic setting but is far from civilization. Taft is located on the edge of industrialized Waterbury area but closer to NYC, Hartford and New Haven.</p>