<p>The two schools couldn't seem any more different. One is large, urban and political; the other, small, suburban and artsy. Yet this is the decision I find myself having to make. </p>
<p>First, let me describe myself. I am a liberal male from Oklahoma who intends to major in International Relations. Some of my favorite books include Tolkein's fantasies and Samuel Huntington's political analyses - my love of reading and rhetoric qualifies me for being a closet English major. I also have a history of being very involved with local politics and community theater. In class, I prefer to listen and take notes rather than actively engage in formal discussion, but at the same time I like the intimacy of open intellectual conversations outside of class. I would definitely not consider myself a partier and do not currently do drugs, although I don't have a problem with those who make the personal decision to do so. Label-wise, I consider myself 2/3 geek, 1/6 hipster and 1/6 prep. In high school, I have been affiliated with Speech & Debate and Model UN teams. I really want to study international politics and theory, concentrating on the politics of the Middle East.</p>
<p>What I like about Wesleyan is its atmosphere. I like the general LAC-feel, and get the impression that I could really be myself, no matter how odd that may occasionally be. I especially appreciate the fact that it sports an open curriculum while maintaining excellent academics and small class sizes. What I am most hesitant about is the party scene and my perceived weakness of its IR program. I hear the stories of expensive liquors and naked parties, and I am not sure that I would be comfortable. Also, not to describe Wesleyan's IR program as weak, per say, but rather unremarkable, does not seem inaccurate; which diplomats claim Wesleyan as theirs?</p>
<p>GW is, of course, the quintessential political school in the heart of DC. It is impossible for any school to contend with its level of political and international involvement, and the Elliott School of International Affairs is one of the best in the nation. Internship opportunities would be interesting and plentiful. Furthermore, GW has Persian as a language option, which excites me tremendously. But I can't get over the issue that it doesn't have a campus (the way I see it, college is your one excuse to live in a castle); nor can I forget its enormous size (which I do not like). It also seems a lot more stressful than a school such as Wes. If this was a choice of grad schools, I would choose GW for sure, but as an undergrad I'm not certain whether I want to embark on this path quite yet.</p>
<p>Any insight or advice would be fantastic. Admittedly, I also have American University and the University of Virginia in the roster, and was waitlisted at Middlebury, Tufts and William & Mary (although I am proceeding as if I was rejected). In all seriousness, any help offered would be greatly appreciated.</p>