So I have been accepted to Carleton, Bowdoin, Colby, Boston University, Carnegie Mellon, and Brandeis. I am planning on majoring in physics and going to grad school for that so the quality and rigor of the physics is a very important factor. I am leaning more towards a small school over a large school, but that is not a big factor. Social/residential life is not a huge factor for me either, though I suppose I would be looking for a place know for friendly students and not too much elitism. The financial packages are great (11-14 thousand a year) at all but CMU which would run about 35,000 a year. I would be interested to hear about anyone’s experience with these schools, especially in relation to the physics programs.
Carleton is one of the top 10 PhD Feeder Schools, others are not. Hope this helps. http://www.thecollegesolution.com/the-colleges-where-phds-get-their-start/
Take a look at schedules to see how frequently the core advanced physics courses (mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism and optics, statistical and thermal physics, advanced physics lab) are offered. Once every two years is marginal (you may have one chance to take each course, too bad if its time conflicts with other courses you want to take), once per year is better, and every semester or quarter is best. The schedules may also tell you class sizes.
Also, check on what kinds of advanced physics electives are available.
Carleton and Bowdoin are two of my favorite LACs. I’d give Bowdoin a plus for location but Carleton is probably stronger in sciences, great intellectual & noncompetitive vibe on campus, happy, friendly and accepting students.
Carleton is well-known as a LAC that does especially well in STEM fields.
Brandeis is a smaller university, but with a solid physics department.
Bowdoin is all around is a truly great small college, and will also prepare you well in physics.
was your $11-$14 in aid need based? I thought Carleton and Bowdoin did not give aid.
Bowdoin and Carleton only give need based aid, not merit, aside from a few thousand for NMSF.
Thanks so much for all of your replies, this really is very helpful. And, yes that price is pretty much just with need based aid, with BU and Brandeis giving some Merit award.
Good point ucbalumnus on checking the frequency of physics course offerings, I will take a look at that.