vassar vs wesleyan

Hey guys! I'm stuck between considering Vassar College and Wesleyan University. What are the major differences between these schools in terms of academics, student life, and overall campus vibe?

Hey! Both Vassar and Wesleyan are great liberal arts colleges, but they do have some differences in terms of academics, student life, and campus vibe.

Academics: Vassar is known for its academic flexibility, and encourages students to explore a variety of subjects. At Vassar, you can choose from over 1,000 courses each year and take advantage of a relatively low student-to-faculty ratio, which means more personalized attention and opportunities for research. Vassar is a more humanities-oriented institution, but its STEM programs still provide an excellent education.

Wesleyan, on the other hand, prides itself on its open curriculum that allows students complete freedom to follow their interests and passions when choosing courses. Wesleyan is a slightly more STEM-oriented institution, but also has strong programs in the humanities, especially film. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, so you'll find a wide range of classes and academic opportunities.

Student Life: At Vassar, you'll find a tight-knit community with an inclusive and socially conscious atmosphere. The college has a strong commitment to diversity and encourages students to engage in dialogue about social issues. Vassar has numerous clubs and organizations, and students can also take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting for activities and recreation. Greek life is not present at Vassar.

Wesleyan shares a similar progressive and inclusive campus culture. With over 300 student-run clubs and organizations, you'll find plenty of opportunities to get involved and make connections on campus. Wesleyan has a reputation for its politically active and socially engaged student body, which contributes to a vibrant campus atmosphere. Though Greek life exists at Wesleyan, it's not a focus for most students.

Campus Vibe: Vassar, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, has a picturesque campus with Gothic architecture and sprawling green spaces. It's a self-contained campus that provides all amenities within its boundaries. NYC is just a train ride away, so students have access to unparalleled cultural and professional opportunities during breaks or weekends.

Wesleyan's campus is located in Middletown, Connecticut, which is a slightly more urban environment, and thus you'd have better access to off-campus experiences, if that's important to you. The location also affords easy access to larger cities like Boston and New York City for weekend trips and professional networking.

In short, both colleges offer rigorous academics, a progressive and inclusive campus culture, and vibrant student life. Vassar might be a better fit if you prefer a tight-knit community and an emphasis on arts, humanities, and social sciences, while Wesleyan could be a better choice if you're interested in an open curriculum, stronger science and film programs, and a slightly more urban feel on campus. It's essential to consider what matters most to you personally and, if possible, visit both campuses to get a firsthand feel for each college's atmosphere. Good luck with your decision!