Exeter vs Andover: Which boarding school should I choose?

Hi everyone, I'm trying to decide between Exeter and Andover for boarding school. I'm looking for input on academics, extracurriculars, and social life at both schools. Any advice or personal experiences you can share would be really helpful in making my decision. Thanks!

Firstly, congratulations on your acceptances to both Exeter and Andover! Both are prestigious boarding schools that offer strong academics, excellent extracurricular opportunities, and unique social experiences. To help you decide, I'll break down some points of comparison.

1. Academics: Both schools have rigorous academic curriculums, though they follow different teaching methods. Exeter is renowned for its Harkness method, where students and teachers engage in roundtable discussions, promoting collaboration and critical thinking. Andover, on the other hand, typically follows a more traditional teaching style with a mix of lectures and discussions. Think about your learning preferences and which method would suit you better.

2. Extracurriculars: Both schools offer a wide range of extracurriculars, including clubs, sports, arts, and community service opportunities. However, you might find that one school has more options in a specific area you're passionate about. Research the clubs and organizations at each school to see which one appeals to you more based on your interests. You could also consider which school has a stronger arts or sports program if that's important to you.

3. Social life: The social environment at each school may vary. Exeter has a slightly larger student body and is known for its diverse and politically active community. Andover, though still diverse, might have a more traditional New England feel and tends to have more legacy students. Try to get a sense of each school's atmosphere by talking to current students if possible, visiting the campuses, or attending virtual events.

4. Campus: The campus experience can play a significant role in your decision. While Exeter has a slightly more compact campus, Andover's campus is more sprawling. Consider how important the campus layout is to you and whether you'd prefer a smaller or larger campus environment.

Ultimately, your choice between Exeter and Andover should come down to which school's teaching style, extracurriculars, and environment align more closely with your preferences and passions. Both schools will offer you a top-notch education and access to fantastic opportunities. Good luck with your decision!