Williams vs. Vanderbilt PreMed

College Search & Selection
1

I am currently on the premed track, hoping to eventually enter medical school.

At Williams, I would be studying in biology. Williams seems to have the advantage of smaller class sizes and better medical school acceptance rates(85-90%). Overall, the environment at Williams seems to fit me better based on my visit to Williams last year.

At Vanderbilt, I would be study Medicine, Health and Society, which is the major I am actually interested in studying. Vanderbilt has the advantages of better weather and a close medical center. However, I have not been able to visit Vanderbilt yet so I did not really know how well the overall environment would fit me(I’m a pretty introverted person who isn’t really social).

How does Vanderbilt and Williams compare for students on the premed track in terms of getting a good GPA, medical school acceptance, research opportunities, etc?

One of my main concerns about Williams would be the weather since I would be coming from the sunny California. One concern for Vanderbilt how well I would fit in due to the social scene and greek life since I am not the type of person who is really social and into greek life.

I know both schools are amazing schools that each have their own pros and cons. I would definitely have no regrets attending either school.

Thank you so much for all your help! I really appreciate all the help possible:)

2

if you liked Williams I wouldn’t 2nd guess it. It’s a top school and will give you a great education, and you felt like it was a fit socially.
Vandy is great too but I wouldn’t choose it just for that major.

3

Congrats on getting into both schools. I agree - if you liked Williams, I would go there. The undergraduate teaching at Williams is second to none. Professors help (and push) students to learn in a small class environment. Yes, it can get cold in Williamstown, but the 4-1-4 calendar with a pass/fail January term mitigates some of the distraction of the winter. The J term can be completed elsewhere and is often used for research.

4

I moved from Southern California to attend Williams and found that, with the right clothing, I really enjoy the varied seasons. I know that this is different for everyone but I wouldn’t let weather be too much of a factor. I found that the adjustment was easier when I embraced the opportunities that the seasons offered: learn to ski or snowboard if you don’t already, join one of the early morning hikes in the fall. The area is absolutely beautiful, the buildings are all heated, and there are many opportunities to enjoy the weather.