Oberlin College vs Colby College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Oberlin College and Colby College?

  Oberlin College, located in Ohio, is known for its strong Conservatory of Music and its progressive, socially conscious atmosphere. Colby College, situated in Maine, emphasizes a liberal arts education with a focus on global engagement and environmental studies. Oberlin has a longer history of activism and a more pronounced artistic community, while Colby offers a more traditional New England college experience with strong ties to outdoor recreation.

• How do the academic programs at Oberlin and Colby compare?

  Both Oberlin and Colby offer rigorous liberal arts programs. Oberlin is particularly renowned for its Conservatory of Music and strong programs in creative writing, politics, and history. Colby excels in environmental science, government, economics, and global studies. While both offer a wide range of majors, Oberlin's open curriculum allows for more flexibility in course selection, while Colby's curriculum is more structured.

• What is the campus culture like at each school?

  Oberlin's campus culture is known for its progressive activism, artistic expression, and strong sense of community. It's a place where students are encouraged to challenge norms and engage in social justice issues. Colby's campus culture is more focused on academics, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of school spirit. It offers a more traditional college experience with a greater emphasis on student life and campus traditions.

• How do the locations of Oberlin and Colby affect the student experience?

  Oberlin is located in a small town in Ohio, providing a close-knit community feel with easy access to Cleveland for urban amenities. Colby is situated in Waterville, Maine, offering access to the outdoors, including hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities. The rural setting of Colby provides a more secluded campus environment, while Oberlin's location offers a balance between small-town charm and access to a larger city.

• What are the strengths of Oberlin's Conservatory of Music?

  Oberlin's Conservatory of Music is one of the oldest and most respected in the United States. It offers a comprehensive music education with a wide range of performance opportunities, including orchestras, ensembles, and solo recitals. The Conservatory attracts talented musicians from around the world and provides a supportive environment for artistic growth.

• What opportunities does Colby offer in environmental studies?

  Colby College has a strong commitment to environmental studies, offering a variety of programs and research opportunities in areas such as climate change, conservation, and sustainability. The college's location in Maine provides access to diverse ecosystems, and its environmental studies program is known for its interdisciplinary approach and focus on real-world problem-solving.

• How do the financial aid packages compare between Oberlin and Colby?

  Both Oberlin and Colby are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of their students. They offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. The specific financial aid packages will vary depending on individual circumstances, so it's best to contact the financial aid offices at both colleges for personalized information.

• What are the career services like at Oberlin and Colby?

  Both Oberlin and Colby offer comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers. They provide resources such as career counseling, resume workshops, internship opportunities, and networking events. Oberlin's career services are particularly strong in the arts and non-profit sectors, while Colby's career services have strong connections to businesses and organizations in the Northeast.

• What is the student body size and diversity like at each college?

  Oberlin has a student body of around 2,900 students, while Colby has a student body of around 2,200 students. Both colleges strive to create diverse and inclusive communities, attracting students from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. Oberlin is known for its diverse student body in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Colby has made significant strides in increasing its socioeconomic diversity in recent years.

• What are some notable alumni from Oberlin and Colby?

  Oberlin has produced many notable alumni in the arts, politics, and social justice fields, including Lena Dunham, Tracy Chapman, and Chris Hughes. Colby has produced notable alumni in business, government, and academia, including Doris Kearns Goodwin, William Cohen, and Robert Diamond.

• What are the athletic opportunities at Oberlin and Colby?

  Both Oberlin and Colby offer a variety of athletic opportunities for students. Oberlin competes in NCAA Division III athletics, while Colby competes in NCAA Division III as part of the NESCAC (New England Small College Athletic Conference). Colby's NESCAC affiliation is known for its strong athletic competition. Both schools offer a range of varsity sports, as well as intramural and club sports.

• How do Oberlin and Colby support international students?

  Both Oberlin and Colby provide support services for international students, including visa assistance, orientation programs, and cultural advising. They also offer opportunities for international students to connect with each other and share their experiences. Both colleges value the contributions of international students to their campus communities.