Amherst vs. Bowdoin: Which school to consider?

Hey guys, I've been looking into liberal arts colleges lately, and I'm curious about the pros and cons of Amherst and Bowdoin. Can anyone share their experiences with the academics, campus life, and overall vibe at both schools? Thanks in advance!

Both Amherst and Bowdoin are excellent liberal arts colleges, so you can't go wrong with either choice. Here's a comparison of some aspects of the two schools to help you decide:

Academics:

- Amherst is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to take classes across many disciplines without general education requirements. This flexibility attracts students who want to explore different subjects or create their own academic paths.

- Bowdoin also offers a flexible curriculum with distribution requirements, meaning you have to take a certain number of courses in different areas but have more choices within those areas. Both schools have a strong focus on close faculty-student interactions and small class sizes.

Campus life:

- Amherst is located in a college town with four other schools nearby (UMass Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire). This provides opportunities to participate in the Five College Consortium and attend social events and activities at neighboring schools.

- Bowdoin is located in the small town of Brunswick, offering a more close-knit community experience. There is a focus on the outdoors, with the college's Coastal Studies Center and the Outing Club that organizes trips for students. Brunswick is also close to both Freeport (for shopping) and Portland (for off-campus activities).

Overall vibe:

- Amherst has a reputation for being a bit more academically intense and competitive, though students are generally collaborative and supportive of one another. There is a strong emphasis on social justice and activism on campus.

- Bowdoin tends to be more laid-back in terms of academics, with a work-hard-play-hard atmosphere. The campus is known for its friendly and inclusive community, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Keep in mind that the best way to determine which school is right for you is to visit both campuses (if possible) and speak to current students. Remember, it's essential to find the college that is the best fit for your academic interests and personal preferences. Good luck in your search!