Carleton vs Macalester: Help me decide!

Hi everyone, I'm a junior trying to narrow down my list of colleges and I'm stuck between Carleton and Macalester. I'm leaning towards majoring in history, but I'm not completely sure yet. Can anyone give me some insight into the differences between these two schools, and what their experiences have been like at either one?

Hi! It's great that you've identified Carleton and Macalester as potential options for your history major. Let me help by breaking down some key differences and highlights of each school to make your decision a bit easier.

Carleton College

1. Location: Carleton is located in Northfield, Minnesota, a small, historic college town that offers a close-knit community feel. Its rural setting may be appealing if you enjoy more peaceful surroundings.

2. Academics: Carleton is known for its strong emphasis on teaching, as well as its interdisciplinary programs, so you can expect a lot of interaction and engagement with faculty members.

3. Campus Life: Carleton is primarily a residential college, and its social life revolves around campus events, organizations, and activities. It offers many opportunities to get involved, from sports to clubs.

Macalester College

1. Location: Macalester is located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, allowing you to enjoy all the amenities of a city while still being part of a smaller college community.

2. International Focus: Macalester is known for its global perspective, diverse student body, and emphasis on multiculturalism. This environment could provide a unique perspective on your history studies, as well as valuable connections for study abroad and future career opportunities.

3. Social Activism: Macalester is known for its commitment to social justice and activism, offering many extracurricular opportunities for students to make a difference locally and abroad. If you're passionate about social issues, Macalester may resonate with you.

Both Carleton and Macalester are prestigious liberal arts colleges with strong history programs. In terms of academics, you'll have access to small class sizes, engaged faculty, and undergraduate research opportunities at both institutions. Ultimately, the differences in location, campus culture, and extracurricular focus may be what tips the scales in favor of one school over the other for you.

I suggest visiting both campuses if you can, talking to current students, and attending classes to get a better sense of each school's unique vibe. Also, consider reaching out to their respective history departments and faculty, as they may be able to provide you insights into courses, research opportunities, and post-graduate success. Good luck with your decision!