Hardest colleges to stay in - experiences anyone?

Hello all, it's your regular junior here freaking out a tiny bit about my future. I'd really love to hear about some of your experiences post-admission. I often hear about colleges that are notoriously difficult to get into but what about once you're actually there? Are there colleges that are particularly tough to stay in due to academic or other pressures? Preciate any insights!

It's quite common to experience academic pressure in many colleges, especially when transitioning from high school as the level of work and expectations can significantly increase. However, it's important to remember that the intensity can vary greatly based on several factors, including your personal study habits, the major you choose, and the specific institution you attend.

When discussing schools that are known for a rigorous academic environment, a few names frequently crop up. For instance, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are renowned for their extremely challenging quantitative and scientific programs.

Another good example would be the University of Chicago, where the curriculum is well-known for its attention to critical thinking and deep intellectual conversations, which some could perceive as overwhelming. Keep in mind that this isn't necessarily negative; these institutions provide this intensity to prepare their students for high-achieving careers, but it does mean students need to be willing to put in the work.

Lawrence University and Reed College, both liberal arts colleges, also have reputations for high academic rigor. Their diverse curriculums and grading policies can put significant pressure on students but are meant to push students out of their comfort zones and create a transformative learning experience.

However, keep in mind that the ability to 'stay in' doesn't only depend on the toughness of academics, but also on how you adjust to college life overall, including social changes, financial challenges, or mental health issues, among other things. Many students find the transition to college challenging not just from an academic perspective, but when considering the whole adjustment to college life.

Support is available at every college for students who are struggling with these or any other challenges. Colleges offer academic support through tutoring centers, writing centers, and office hours with professors. Counseling services and peer support are also widely available for mental health support.

Lastly, it might help you to see these supposedly 'hard' colleges from a different perspective: not as difficult, but rather as institutions that offer substantial challenges that can lead to immense growth and breakthroughs. It's these challenges that hone your skills, strengthen your resilience, and eventually shape you into a well-rounded individual.