<p>Right now im deciding between Colgate and Mich (got into LSA honors program). I realize these schools are very different but I honestly feel that I would enjoy my time at both. I guess i'm concerned with academics and an intellectual atmosphere and I would like to hear some opinions regarding the two. Thanks!!</p>
<p>Colgate will have a much more intelectual atmosphere as it is much smaller. Classes are usually under 15. This gives students opportunities to eat dinner at their professors’s homes where they can engage in intelectual debate. Colgate is also more selective, so the concentration of academically superior students will be higher, thus creating frequent intelectual engagement outside of the classroom. Both schools are very academic.</p>
<p>Well, that is a pretty striking choice between two schools that probably could not be more different – large vs. small, and so on. In terms of the education, you’ll get a better one at any good small liberal arts college compared to a large state university where classes are frequently very large lecture classes. Many people love large universities, but I’m not one of them. I don’t like being anonymous, don’t like crowds, don’t much like the “big sports” emphasis, the parking problems, the huge lecture classes. You have to decide that, of course, as these are my opinions. </p>
<p>I liked getting to know my professors, being in small discussion classes, and “mattering” to other people on a regular basis. You could find that at a large university, but it’s not very common. If you attend a large university and return five years later, you might not have a single person on campus even know who you are. I returnd to Colgate (I’m an alum) 20 years later in my 40’s and had at least two older professors remember my name. I was kind of impressed. It’s a little more like working in a small family business compared to a large corporation. The corporation is big and shiny and impressive, but no one knows who you are or cares much.</p>
<p>Michigan is a great state university. Colgate is a great small liberal arts college. Where do you want to spend four years?</p>
<p>@justin789 i am in the same exact position! trying to decide between Michigan and Colgate</p>
<p>D just chose Michigan over WUSTL. Smaller can be better but so are amazing opportunities at a world class university. If you plan to go to grad school, medical, etc. in anything then maybe I’d pick Colgate. If you aren’t sure and may go right into the workforce I’d look hard at Michigan.</p>