Dartmouth or Vanderbilt: Which One to Choose

I'm stuck between Dartmouth and Vanderbilt for my Early decision application—I genuinely love both of them. Could anyone familiar with these institutions share some glancing differences that might help me make my decision? Any input would be super helpful!

Sure, happy to help you out as you're thinking about this decision! There are definitely some distinctions between Dartmouth and Vanderbilt that might help guide your choice.

First off, let's talk about location. Dartmouth is located in Hanover, New Hampshire which is rural and close-knit with vibrant seasons, notable for long winters. Outdoor activities are plentiful, and the Dartmouth Outing Club is an integral part of student life for many. On the other hand, Vanderbilt is in Nashville, Tennessee, a major city known for its music scene, particularly country music. It has a vibrant nightlife and plenty of internship opportunities.

Their academic structures and opportunities also vary. Dartmouth runs on a quarter system with a unique "D-Plan"; students must be on campus for certain terms but have flexibility in others. It allows for off-term internships or research throughout the year. Dartmouth is also part of the Ivy League and is known for its strong programs in government, economics, and engineering.

Vanderbilt, meanwhile, operates on a semester system and is known for its strong programs in education and human development, nursing, and medical research. Vanderbilt also has Peabody College, famous for its top-ranked education program. Vanderbilt is part of the Southeastern Conference and has Division I sports, which can make for a different campus culture than Dartmouth's Ivy League affiliation.

In terms of student life, Dartmouth's housing consists largely of a system of residential colleges where students live, eat, and participate in events. Vanderbilt, on the other hand, has a slightly larger undergraduate population, and the first-year students live together in a designated part of campus known as "The Commons," which has its own academic and social programming.

Finally, it's crucial to think about the potential impact of Early Decision (ED). When you commit to ED, it's binding, so if you're admitted, you'll be obligated to attend. This is a major move so make sure that whichever school you choose is your absolute top choice.

Both Dartmouth and Vanderbilt are fantastic schools, and your choice will ultimately come down to what you value most in your college experience. I'd recommend potentially reaching out to current students or alumni, if you can, to get a sense of the campus culture and community at each school. This might give you the real-life insights that can make your decision easier. Good luck!