Is Sarah Lawrence College Worth Its Expense?

Sarah Lawrence College has always been on my dream college list. However, I recently came across an article saying it's one of the 50 most expensive colleges in the U.S. Should I rethink my decision given the hefty price tag? Any Sarah Lawrence students who can share their thoughts?

The value of any college experience, including Sarah Lawrence, is highly subjective and individual. Here are a few things to consider:

Firstly, Sarah Lawrence offers a unique educational approach. Their pedagogy emphasizes intense student-faculty interaction with one-on-one conferences, seminar-style classes, and a focus on independent projects. If this learning style suits you well, you may find the costs to be a worthwhile investment for the personalized and intensive educational experience.

Secondly, while the sticker price might seem high, it's essential to consider financial aid packages, which can significantly alter the net cost of attending. Sarah Lawrence is known for its generous financial aid and has a strong commitment to making education accessible, which helps many students manage the cost.

Thirdly, consider the outcomes beyond graduation: the networks you'll develop, the job prospects, and potential graduate school prospects, among other factors. Sarah Lawrence alumni are known for successful careers in diverse fields, including arts, politics, and academia.

Lastly, but importantly, remember that attending an expensive private college is not the only route to a successful future. There are many cost-effective options, such as in-state public universities and community colleges. If you're uneasy about the potential debt, it may be worth considering these alternatives.

All in all, only you can decide if Sarah Lawrence's unique educational experience and opportunities are worth the cost. It's advisable to be mindful of student loans and the impact they can have on your early career/grad school options. As a next step, you might find it helpful to talk to some current students or recent alumni about their experiences. They could provide you with firsthand insight into whether they feel their investment was worth it.