UMass Amherst or SUNY New Paltz

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I have six days to make a decision and I am having a really hard time.</p>

<p>The stats of admitted students are about the same at both schools, so I don't know if one is really any "better" than the other.
I visited both campuses and still couldn't decide. I have weighed the pros and cons and still, nothing.</p>

<p>First I thought I wanted to be in a smaller school, so I figured New Paltz might be right for me, and it's a better price. I love the surrounding area because nature and hiking and all that are sort of my thing.
Then I thought, since I'm from California, I might feel better at a school like UMass with more out of state students. Plus I have the resources of 5 universities there with the consortium (for me, going to Amherst College is the ultimate dream school, and being able to take classes there might be nice).
People (faculty and students) seemed generally nicer and more relaxed at New Paltz. It felt cozier, homier somehow there. But perhaps I cold find a home at umass as well, once I get past the overwhelming size. I haven't a clue what to do.</p>

<p>I'd like to double major in English Lit (possibly w/ a concentration in creative writing) and Psychology, though I'm also interested in Philosophy and Sociology. I am considering being a school psychologist, and I am also considering Law School.</p>

2

<p>Sarahhh - My son and daughter are sophomores at UMass Amherst, they they really really like it. There is plenty of nature stuff to do in western mass, and cultural activites abound at the university and in places like Northampton and the Berkshire area - art museums, theater. My kids both have a diverse group of friends and like their courses. My daughter is an English major, interested in creative writing, and taking a lot of sociology as well. She’s hoping to participate in the university’s Oxford Summer Seminars in England next summer.
They don’t feel the size of UMass is a drawback at all, as far as I can tell.
Hope this helps
richard</p>

3

<p>There is plenty of nature in the Pioneer valley! Taking a course or 2 at Amherst college is not at all difficult to swing. I remember their library feeling less crowded vs. Du Bois because of the sheer difference in scale of number of students.</p>

<p>Good luck with your decision!</p>

4

<p>thank you both for your responses!</p>