The discussion revolves around the admissions processes and experiences at Amherst College and Princeton University, with a focus on the perspectives of international applicants. Participants share insights about the academic environment, particularly in physics, mathematics, and economics, as well as the social dynamics of each institution.
Participants generally agree on the highly selective nature of admissions at both Amherst and Princeton, but there are differing opinions on the specifics of the admissions process and the academic environments at the schools. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to applications and the relative merits of each institution.
Participants mention varying experiences and perceptions of the admissions process, which may depend on individual circumstances and definitions of qualifications. There are also references to the social dynamics and academic offerings that may not apply universally.
Prospective students considering applications to Amherst College, Princeton University, or similar institutions, particularly international applicants interested in physics, mathematics, and economics.
Thy Apathy said:There is.
On the other side of the spectrum, you have kid with above average intellect and kid with below average intellect...
Having said that, I like to believe that people have some distinct characteristics and have different things that make them "tick". It's only a question of finding out what. Then they'd be able to do anything. Then again, I might be wrong and I'll never be able to play soccer very well nor will that girl I know be able to solve a simultaneous equation in less than 10 minutes.
spamiam said:Hi Thy Apathy,
I am a recent graduate and math major from Amherst College. I was actually admitted to both Princeton and Amherst but ended up choosing the latter over the former. I was pretty put off by the eating clubs at Princeton, since these seemed to be nothing more than institutionalized cliques. More than anything, though, I simply like the atmosphere at Amherst better when I visited, so I will echo others in encouraging you to visit schools to which you are admitted.
What I meant is that you should apply to schools without visiting, but, once you've received your admission decisions in the spring, make one trip and visit schools to which you've been accepted to see what they are like before enrolling.Thy Apathy said:International student. Visiting...yeah, not so easily done! :P
Are the five colleges quite close? Is it "easy" to mix with people who go to different schools? Student bars or something? How's living there, in general, like?
spamiam said:What I meant is that you should apply to schools without visiting, but, once you've received your admission decisions in the spring, make one trip and visit schools to which you've been accepted to see what they are like before enrolling.
Yes, it's very easy to get around. There is a bus system (http://www.pvta.com/schedules.php) that runs very frequently and is free for students of the consortium. There are many area events (e.g. concerts) that attract students from many of the different universities, students often participate in extracurricular activities at one of the other schools, and of course students often attend parties held at the other schools--it doesn't hurt that two of the five are all-girls schools ;). All of this in addition to students that you meet in your classes. Anyway, I will conclude my plug by saying that I had a great time at Amherst and learned a lot.