Barnard vs Wellesley

Hey everyone! I've been trying to decide between Barnard College and Wellesley College, and I was wondering if you guys could give me some input. What are the major differences between the two, and how do they compare in terms of academics, campus culture, and career opportunities?

Hello! It sounds like you have a tough decision to make between two great schools. Here's a comparison of Barnard and Wellesley to help you with your decision:

Location:

Barnard College is an urban campus in New York City, specifically in Manhattan's Morningside Heights neighborhood. It's integrated with Columbia University, giving Barnard students access to resources across both campuses. This location provides many cultural, social, and job/internship opportunities in the city.

On the other hand, Wellesley College is situated in a suburban setting in the town of Wellesley, Massachusetts, just about 12 miles west of Boston. The campus is picturesque and somewhat secluded. However, you can easily access Boston for events and internships via public transportation.

Academics:

Both schools are known for their strong academics, but they have different strengths. Barnard is particularly lauded for its liberal arts and performing arts programs, as well as journalism and political science. Since Barnard is affiliated with Columbia University, students can take classes and participate in research at both institutions.

Wellesley excels in the STEM fields, especially the biological sciences, and is known for graduating many women who go on to careers in science and research. It's also notable for its liberal arts programs, including a highly-regarded economics department.

Campus culture:

Barnard and Wellesley both have small, close-knit communities where students can form strong bonds and participate in various clubs and organizations. However, they have different campus vibes. Barnard's urban location provides more opportunities for city life, and its affiliation with Columbia adds diversity to the student experience. It's worth noting that Barnard is a women's college that embraces feminist ideals and female empowerment.

Wellesley has a more traditional New England campus, fostering sisterhood and supportive, empowering environments for women. Students often say that the Wellesley network is incredibly tight-knit and extends far beyond graduation.

Career opportunities:

Both schools offer wonderful career services and extensive alumni networks, which can be advantageous when seeking internships or jobs. Barnard's location in NYC provides students with access to job opportunities, internships, and networking events in the nation's largest city across multiple industries.

Wellesley has a strong connection with the Greater Boston Area and offers plenty of resources and internship opportunities within the region. Additionally, Wellesley is a member of the Seven Sisters alliance and has established connections with the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University, which can open up further opportunities.

In summary, the choice between Barnard and Wellesley depends on factors like your desired location, campus atmosphere, and academic preferences. Both are fantastic schools providing exceptional opportunities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the environment where you think you'll thrive best. Good luck with your decision!