Amherst vs Swarthmore

Hello! So, I've been researching liberal arts colleges, and I'm torn between Amherst College and Swarthmore College. Can anyone provide some insights on their overall experience at these schools, or comparisons in terms of academics, extracurricular opportunities, and social life?

I can give you an overview of the differences between Amherst and Swarthmore to help you out. They're both fantastic liberal arts colleges, but they differ in some key ways.

Academics:

Amherst is known for its open curriculum, meaning there are no general education requirements and you have a lot of freedom to choose your classes. This can be great if you're an independent learner and are really curious about exploring different subjects. Swarthmore, on the other hand, has more structured requirements, which can help you get a well-rounded education. Both schools are academically rigorous, so whichever you choose, you'll receive a top-notch education.

Extracurricular opportunities:

Both Amherst and Swarthmore have plenty of clubs and organizations for students to join. One distinction between the two is that Swarthmore is part of the Tri-College Consortium (along with Bryn Mawr and Haverford), which allows students to take classes and participate in extracurricular activities at the other institutions. This can offer you more variety and opportunities, but you definitely won't be lacking in clubs and activities at Amherst either.

Social life:

Amherst has a slightly larger student population than Swarthmore, which can affect the social atmosphere. Social life at Amherst is more influenced by its Greek life (though it's not officially recognized), whereas Swarthmore has a stronger focus on its intellectual community. Swarthmore might feel more close-knit, leaning towards a cooperative atmosphere rather than a competitive one.

Location:

This is another area where there's a significant difference between the two. Amherst is located in a picturesque New England college town, with easy access to the Five College Consortium (Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst). This provides a variety of social and cultural opportunities in the surrounding area. Swarthmore, on the other hand, is in a suburban setting just outside of Philadelphia, which allows for easy access to the city and all it has to offer.

Ultimately, both Amherst and Swarthmore are exceptional schools, and which one is a better fit for you comes down to your personal preferences. Reach out to current students or attend campus visits if you can, as that will provide more insights and help you get a feel for the atmosphere at each school. Good luck with your decision!