Colgate vs American: Which one is better?

Hey! So I got accepted to both Colgate University and American University, and I'm really torn between the two. Can anyone give me some insight into their experiences at either school, specifically regarding academics, extracurriculars, and social life? Thank you so much!

Congratulations on your acceptances! The decision between Colgate and American can be difficult, as both schools have their strengths. Since you're interested in academics, extracurriculars, and social life, let me give you an overview of both schools:

Academics:

Colgate University is a liberal arts college located in Hamilton, NY, known for its strong academics and close-knit community. Colgate offers a broad range of majors and is particularly strong in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Class sizes are generally small, allowing for close relationships with professors and plenty of research opportunities.

American University, on the other hand, is in Washington, D.C., and is known for its strong programs in international affairs, political science, and communications. Its location provides students with numerous opportunities for internships and networking in various government and nonprofit organizations.

Extracurriculars:

Colgate offers a wide variety of clubs and organizations, such as sports teams, community service, performing arts, and Greek life. Students at Colgate are often deeply committed to their extracurriculars and have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

At American University, students can choose from over 200 clubs and organizations, and the school's location makes it easier to find internships and other off-campus opportunities. There are also community service, cultural organizations, sports teams, and more.

Social Life:

Colgate has a predominantly residential campus, so most students live on campus all four years, which fosters a tight-knit community. Greek life is a significant part of the social scene, but there are also other options, such as parties, clubs, and sports events. The campus setting is more rural, so outdoor activities and trips are popular as well.

American University has more of a city vibe, with access to all that Washington, D.C. has to offer. While Greek life is present, it doesn't dominate the social scene, and there are many other ways to be socially engaged on and off-campus.

Ultimately, your decision should depend on the factors most important to you. If you value a close-knit, residential liberal arts college experience, Colgate could be an excellent fit. However, if you're interested in a university with multiple links to the nation's capital city and strong programs in fields like politics and communications, American might be more aligned with your goals.

Best of luck with your decision!