<p>I thought I'd start this thread because the class of 2017 seem to be changing to that topic, instead of the thread being a connection for the class.</p>
<p>Personal touch - the professors we have contacted through the five years when we would have a question, have taken the time to answer thoroughly. Whether it be a comparison of Lawrence to a music conservatory, double degrees, or a semester abroad. I would forward their answer to an alumni here in town and he’d say, “very Lawrence like”.</p>
<p>When accepted, my S received an email from his soon to be music prof introducing herself and asking if they could talk. This was within the week we got the acceptance package. My S called her with his long list of questions and they talked over an hour - during the prof’s off hours because of our time difference. A week later they had a weekend skype lesson when it was determined we wouldn’t be able to make a visit. My S had attended the music camp at the campus during middle school so he knew the physical campus being compact was to his liking.</p>
<p>They strive to avoid large increases in tuition. They’ve averaged $1k to $1500 a year. Compared to another school applied to - $5k jump this year.</p>
<p>Personal touch continues in the offices. Financial aid when she discovered we sent page 3 and 4 and didn’t send 1 and 2, she emailed promptly. When I re-faxed, she followed-up to say she got it. Unlike another school where the fax seemed to go to an abiss.</p>
<p>They have a ton of you-tube that help you get a feel for the school and their mission. That goes for other schools. We actually ruled one out after watching a music studio lesson and the students were falling asleep.</p>
<p>I like the size of Appleton. A small city. Yet only 3 hours to Chicago.</p>
<p>My son is having a wonderful experience at Lawrence and is not in the Con. He is able to register for any class he is interested in without having to be worried if it is full. He has felt comfortable to explore his interests and is changing his major from what he thought he would major in freshman year. There are lots of leadership opportunities, a variety of dorms and a varied selection of activities, and professors who take a genuine interest in students and are there to teach. He has not had to endure classes taught by “teaching assistants” which is prevalent at high-prestige and larger universities where professors are too busy writing and doing research. The town is safe, is close to outdoor recreation and has a diverse population with lots of ethnic restaurants to try. It is cold in the winter, but he doesn’t mind. A great college experience for him!</p>