<p>What is it that makes you want to go to Bates? Why does it stand out from other colleges you researched or are applying to? What initially drew you to it, and, if you go there, what ultimately led you to choose Bates over other schools you were accepted to?</p>
<p>Basically, what makes it so special?</p>
<p>Just to add on ... can people also list the other schools they applied to/were accepted at. thanks!</p>
<p>Something that's unique to Bates-Short Term.</p>
<p>Other schools have a Jan Plan, but it can't match Short Term, which offers opportunities you just can't wedge between Xmas break and the second term.</p>
<p>The fact that many students do 3 Short Terms even though Bates only requires 2 is telling. Students really like Short Term. I had 4 great Short Term experiences. </p>
<p>Freshman year I did a psych internship at a major mental hospital, combining 4 days a week living and working at the facility with one on campus. Loved the internship but the real-world exposure helped me decide that I didn't want to major in psychology.</p>
<p>Sophomore year (non Short Term credit year), I got a business internship arranged through the college and made enough money in 2 1/2 months to spend the next two travelling in Europe with my boyfriend.</p>
<p>Junior year I took a concentrated English course on campus which led to a fellowship and a TA position with the professor for Senior year.</p>
<p>Senior year I went to China to study Asian arts with two professors and around 20 fellow students. Because Short Term falls at the end of the year many of us stayed in China and travelled for a portion of the summer. </p>
<p>In contrast, my brother at Williams took a bartending course during his Winter Study term. (Yes, Williams is a fine school, but I was rather unimpressed by his Winter Study "curriculum".)</p>
<p>I love Bates because of the people. It's as simple as that. The difference, in my mind, between Bates and other NESCAC schools is people's personalities. In my opinion the atmosphere tends to be more laid back, happy-go-lucky. I'm a freshman here, and couldn't be happier. Looking forward to my first short term - finals are this week!
@R4484 Applied to Bates, Colby, Midd, Hampshire, St. Mikes, Keene State. Got in everywhere except Midd (waitlisted).</p>