<p>Im considering a transfer to an LAC, and Carleton is at the top of my list. Im currently a second-year Cadet at West Point. I remember from my senior year of high school that Carleton was my favorite College (other than USMA), but I didnt get in. I have a few questions that people with Carleton or USMA experiences might be able to answer.
Obviously giving up the great opportunity that USMA presents needs some justification.
My largest reason for leaving is that from my (VERY limited) experience with the actual Army (not West Point), Im not so sure that I still wish to be an Army Officer. Ive certainly made friends at WP, Im just dont think I fit the culture. Everyone here is focused and driven for the same goal, but I dont know if its for me. When I came to USMA, I had my mind set on Engineering, which is great at this school. However, Ive had a recent change of heart. I think Id like to major in either Philosophy or a Sociology-related field. West Point only graduates B.S. Somehow a B.S. in Philosophy just doesnt make sense.
Im not an at-risk cadet by any means, that isnt why I want to leave. I have a 3.5 GPA, and one extracurricular (volunteer downhill ski instructor), plus everything that West Point requires of me (intramurals plus military stuff). If anyone can let me know my chances of getting accepted to Carleton I would really appreciate it. Im also interested in the availability of financial aid for transfer students. I remember that I got a pretty good package from a certain other institution in Northfield with a similar FA policy. Finally, I was wondering if anyone had some insight as to what the Philosophy major is like at Carleton, and what some of the graduates end up doing (Im interested in Law School). Also on the off chance that anyone here can let me know what a West Point B.S. in Philosophy is worth, Id appreciate that as well. Thanks!</p>
<p>I can’t speak to all your questions, but I can provide a link to show Carleton does not treat transfer students different from other applicants with respect to need-based aid [Carleton</a> College: Admissions: Transfer Students](<a href=“http://apps.carleton.edu/admissions/topics/transfer_students/]Carleton”>http://apps.carleton.edu/admissions/topics/transfer_students/)</p>
<p>I’ll also note the aid package you received from the other Northfield school might have included more than just need-based aid. The other school does provide a good bit of merit aid which Carleton does not. </p>
<p>Chances of admission are quite slim despite your interesting profile and good college stats. Because Carleton has such a high rate of student retention there are very few transfer slots open. Last year only 8 were accepted out of over 280 applicants. Of those, 7 enrolled. That means at a minimum for admission your application must demonstrate to the committee your intent to really enroll at Carleton if accepted. In your essay, focus particularly on why Carleton is your first choice. You can change your essay between submissions to different colleges (up to 3 submitted versions total), so tailoring it to the particular school is possible this year. </p>
<p>Finally, continue to be be thoughtful in your posts. Because of your unique situation, you will be specifically identifiable to any admissions staff who might read your posts .</p>
<p>Wow…West Point and Carleton are as different cultures as you can have…I have a cousin who went there (West Point). Carleton is really a school for individualists. My impression of West is that it is as non-individualistic as you can get…the “Long Grey Line” of uniforms and all. You may get accepted as a transfer, but I think the culture will be so different, it will take a while to adjust. You have a lot to explain in your essays, but perhaps an opportunity to really make yourself positively stand out.</p>
<p>Then again don’t you owe the Army a number years of service if you stick it out and graduate at West Point, so no doubt it is a tough decision.</p>
<p>I have heard the army will pay for Law School if that is what you want to do though. I’d look into that.</p>
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<p>Yes, they will know exactly who you are :)… continue to be thoughtful…if you use this same ID. Sometimes staff from Carleton’s administration reads these posts and even comment if they get controversial…</p>
<p>In order to succeed in law school, you must be able to articulate your thought process in written form. I imagine that either a B.S. in Philosophy from West Point or a B.A. in Philosophy from Carleton will provide you with opportunities to refine your writing skills. But you may also want to think beyond law school in that you will eventually need to find a job as an attorney. There are many attorneys out there and getting a job can be competitive. I think that an engineering degree from West Point would be a foot in the door to some legal opportunities where technical expertise is necessary.</p>
<p>Transferring into Carleton can be difficult. A 98% retention rate among frosh and sophomores means few slots open up. Only 8 out of 278 applicants were accepted last year - 7 of the 8 accepted offers and enrolled. </p>
<p>But the USMA has given you an unusual story to tell, one that well may work to your advantage. I’d say go for it if Carleton was your #1 outside of West Point. As far as fin aid is concerned, it remains generous, guaranteed to meet 100% of need whether you arrive as a freshman or as a transfer student, same deal across the board.</p>
<p>Re: law school, both Carleton and the USMA will put you in very good stead. Don’t think that endpoint should play into decision making.</p>