<p>i want to apply ED this year but i want to be sure first, on the off chance i get in. what do you love and what do you hate about it?</p>
<p>I have to warn you, my opinion might be slightly biased.
My search had various filters. Because I’m Albanian and I can’t afford the cost of the American education, I wanted a school that would offer financial aid to internationals. This search had around 20 results. Williams completely covers its students financial needs, with grants, loans (to a lesser extent) and campus jobs. The financial aid office is EXTREMELY approachable and understanding and I know of many students who have appealed their finaid packages.
Second, I needed an intimate studying environment. In Albania, there are classes of nearly 200, and that’s just unheard of at Williams. I wanted to have the luxury of getting to know my professors, because that’s very valuable to the studying process and because I am going to need med school recs some day. Even the administration is incredibly friendly and ready to help. Williams ticks these boxes.
Thirdly, accademics. I have to say that this is to me, like it is to everyone, of paramount importance, but when looking to mega powerful colleges in the US, you really can’t choose wrong. It’s more important to go for a good fit, than it is to go for the prestige. Williams is not the most famous of school, but it doesn’t need to be. The Math and art history departments are incredibly strong, and I have’t heard anything but good words on the other departments (naturally, on some more than others.)
Then, I wanted a tight-knit community. I didn’t want a huge school where you get to know only your roommate. Williams has entry systems, where a number of freshmen are put together with JAs that are there to make sure you have support on your freshmen year. Entries are also supposed to be really cool. And from personal experience, people on Facebook are really easy to talk to and ready to help. And really accomplished and interesting.
But to be entirely honest, the fact that Williams is Forbes’s Number One College is a big advantage. When I was sent that classification, I was positive I was going to apply, but still. It was nice to know :D</p>
<p>So far, everything has gone brilliantly (I start college in August). I have nothing to complain about, except for the weather (Albania is relatively warm, even in the winter). And some people think the fact that Williams is isolated is a detriment, but I think that that’s a plus. I don’t think I will ever get bored there, and if I do, it’s not the north pole. There will never be any temptation to skip classes and go to town, because the town is a bit away. And knowing myself, that’s a good thing.</p>
<p>And I wrote academics wrong. That’s brilliant.</p>
<p>thanks for the info! it was really helpful 
i think i am going to apply ED… if im lucky maybe ill see you there :P</p>
<p>You’re welcome! I hope you get in and if you need help with the application (insert international student disclaimer here) you know how to reach me.</p>
<p>haha if you know anyone in the admissions office that would definitely be helpful ;)</p>