Villanova -vs- Dickinson

<p>Daughter's decision time is upon us. We have visited each and believe either would be a great choice. She is undecided as to major/area of study.</p>

<p>I have listed some of her considerations, below. Comments and any additional considerations are most welcome!</p>

<p>Size: approximately 2,400 at D versus 6,500/10,000 (w/graduate students) for V. Daughter likes the size/community feel at D, but I don't think she would find V overwhelming.</p>

<p>Location: V location is great w/easy access to Philadelphia. Carlisle (obviously) not the options and somewhat remote. C did at least seem to offer some dining and shopping options. Each are a 6-7 hour drive. Flight, train or bus access better at V, but not awful C to BWI.</p>

<p>International: International study is important to her. D really excels here with many programs and really well-integrated to the course of study. V seems to have a few programs, but this area did not seem nearly as well-developed (even limited) - and at a significantly larger school.</p>

<p>Athletics/clubs: Daughter interested in club-level sailing and field hockey. With studies and all the other possible activities, she may end-up doing neither. V has both. D may start club fh. Div I/basketball for V. Div III/lax for D.</p>

<p>Student body: Though smaller, D had a somewhat more diverse feel - which we think is important. Strong volunteering programs at both schools.</p>

<p>Other: Strong upgrading of plant/facilities apparent at D. Candidly, we were really impressed by the quality and consistent investment. Both schools seem to offer a genuine and strong sense of "community," though I think such may be even stronger at the smaller D.</p>

<p>Daughter did receive a meaningful merit scholarship to Dickinson.</p>

<p>Sorry for the long list. Again, thank you for your further thoughts or comments. Good luck to all.</p>

<p>@bb5454 - I can’t speak to the rest but my son and I attended the information session for the study abroad program at Villanova’s admitted student’s day and we were both very impressed with what they had to offer. Between their own programs and willingness to work with external programs, opportunities for interniships overseas while studying abroad, and their attention to detail when it comes to advising to ensure the classes taken overseas count towards meeting requirements, we felt like they had a very strong well integrated study abroad program. S did choose Villanova and I think their study abroad program was a factor in that decision. Anyway, good luck!</p>