both great school trying to decide on 1 for ED. Recruited student- athlete (swimming) wants to study science probably Bio
Are you into fraternities? Union is the “mother of fraternities” and Greek life is a valued part of the campus social life. Bates has none and prides itself on an inclusive social life, from one dining hall to equality for women and minorities throughout its history.
Any interest in engineering? Union has it and Bates does not.
Both should be good for biology and both have Division 3 swimming, so aspects such as location and social “vibe” may make the difference.
Questions to ask yourself: Have you visited both? Do you have a better feel about one? Do you have a better feel about one swim team/ coach? Your personal answers to these questions may shape your experience.
These were two of DS’ favorites and are both great schools. As an athlete, one of the other things you may want to consider is the academic calendar. Does the trimester system work better or worse with your season? Bates has a “1” at the end of the year which everyone enjoys.
It felt like Union was very strong in the sciences, perhaps because of the engineering (and a pre-med program that has ties with SUNY Albany med school. ) I would look at the bio program (requirements, courses, etc.) at both. Union’s location (and 3 class at a time schedule ) looked like it would make internships more of a possibility than they are in Maine.
Both have outdoor opportunities. Union has Greek life and while one can apparently be happy without joining and still participate, it creates a different social environment. Union also has traditionally had good hockey teams, so fun spirit around that. Kids at both are friendly.
Did you do OV at both? Did one feel more right? Did you like the swimming program equally at both?
The good thing is that as difficult as the decision may feel, you can’t make a bad choice! Both would be great places to end up.
IMO, it really depends on your personality. I would visit each school and see how you feel about the student vibe and which one you see yourself being a part of. I also think as a recruited athlete it would depend on how you feel about each coach/team. I’m sure if you met both you’d feel you clique better with one than the other.