Gettysburg College vs Colby College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in location and campus environment between Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Gettysburg College is located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, a town steeped in American history, offering a blend of a classic college town atmosphere with historical significance. The campus is situated near the Gettysburg National Military Park. Colby College, on the other hand, is located in Waterville, Maine, providing a more rural and secluded environment. Colby's campus is larger and offers a greater sense of natural beauty, with easy access to outdoor activities in Maine's wilderness.

• How do Gettysburg College and Colby College compare in terms of academic focus and strengths?

  Both Gettysburg and Colby offer strong liberal arts educations. Gettysburg is known for its programs in Political Science, History (particularly Civil War studies), and Environmental Studies. Colby excels in areas like Environmental Science, Government, and Economics, and has a strong emphasis on global engagement and research opportunities, particularly in environmental fields. Colby also has a strong art museum integrated into its academic offerings.

• What is the typical student body size and student-faculty ratio at Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Gettysburg College typically has a student body of around 2,600 students, while Colby College has a slightly smaller student body of approximately 2,200 students. Both colleges boast low student-faculty ratios, around 9:1 or 10:1, ensuring personalized attention and close interaction with professors.

• How do the costs of attending Gettysburg College and Colby College compare, and what financial aid opportunities are available?

  The cost of attendance at both Gettysburg and Colby is relatively similar, falling into the category of highly selective liberal arts colleges. Both institutions offer comprehensive financial aid packages, including need-based grants and merit-based scholarships. It's best to visit their respective financial aid websites and use their net price calculators to get a personalized estimate of the cost based on your family's financial situation. Colby is known for its commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated need.

• What are the main differences in campus culture and student life at Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Gettysburg College has a strong emphasis on tradition and a vibrant Greek life presence. Student life is often centered around campus events and activities in the historic town. Colby College fosters a more outdoorsy and environmentally conscious culture, with a focus on sustainability and engagement with the natural world. While Greek life exists at Colby, it is less prominent than at Gettysburg. Colby also emphasizes global engagement and offers numerous opportunities for international study and research.

• What types of extracurricular activities and athletic programs are offered at Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Both Gettysburg and Colby offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and performing arts groups. Gettysburg College competes in NCAA Division III athletics, with a strong emphasis on its football program. Colby College also competes in NCAA Division III athletics, but is part of the highly competitive NESCAC (New England Small College Athletic Conference), known for its strong academics and athletics. Colby has excellent facilities for winter sports.

• How do Gettysburg College and Colby College support career development and post-graduation opportunities for their students?

  Both Gettysburg and Colby have dedicated career services offices that provide students with resources for internships, career counseling, and job placement. Gettysburg leverages its location near major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Washington D.C. for internship opportunities. Colby's strong alumni network and connections in fields like environmental science and government provide valuable career pathways for its graduates. Colby also has a 'DavisConnects' program that guarantees funding for every student to have a meaningful internship or research experience.

• What are the admission requirements and acceptance rates for Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Both Gettysburg and Colby are highly selective institutions with competitive admission processes. They both require strong academic records, standardized test scores (though policies may vary, so check their websites), compelling essays, and strong letters of recommendation. Acceptance rates are typically in the low teens to mid-twenties percentage range. Colby is generally considered slightly more selective.

• How do the dining options and residential life experiences differ between Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Both Gettysburg and Colby offer a variety of dining options, including traditional dining halls, cafes, and grab-and-go options. Residential life is a key component of the student experience at both colleges, with a mix of traditional dormitories and suite-style housing. Colby has invested heavily in its dining facilities in recent years, offering a wider range of options and a focus on sustainable and locally sourced food. Gettysburg's residential life is more integrated with the town of Gettysburg.

• What are some unique aspects or distinguishing features of Gettysburg College and Colby College?

  Gettysburg College's proximity to the Gettysburg National Military Park provides unique opportunities for historical research and engagement. Its Civil War Institute is a renowned program. Colby College's commitment to environmental sustainability, its strong art museum, and its DavisConnects program, which guarantees funding for internships and research, are distinguishing features. Colby's location in Maine also offers unparalleled access to outdoor recreation.