Reed College vs Sarah Lawrence College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main academic philosophies of Reed College and Sarah Lawrence College?

  Reed College emphasizes a rigorous, traditional liberal arts education with a strong focus on critical thinking, independent research, and a common intellectual experience through its Hum 110 course. Sarah Lawrence College, on the other hand, centers its curriculum around individualized learning, small seminar-style classes, and close mentorship from faculty. Sarah Lawrence students design their own course of study in consultation with their don (advisor).

• How do the campus cultures differ between Reed and Sarah Lawrence?

  Reed College is known for its intensely intellectual and quirky student body, with a strong emphasis on academic rigor and a counter-cultural atmosphere. Sarah Lawrence fosters a more artistic and collaborative environment, attracting students interested in creative writing, performing arts, and interdisciplinary studies. While both are academically focused, Reed leans towards a more traditional academic vibe, while Sarah Lawrence is more creatively driven.

• What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at Reed and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Reed and Sarah Lawrence pride themselves on small class sizes. Reed College has an average class size of around 15 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 9:1. Sarah Lawrence College also maintains small classes, with an average class size of around 12 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of about 8:1. This ensures personalized attention and close interaction with professors at both institutions.

• How do the grading systems work at Reed and Sarah Lawrence?

  Reed College has a unique grading system where grades are recorded but not typically given to students unless specifically requested. The emphasis is on learning and intellectual growth rather than grades. Sarah Lawrence College uses a narrative evaluation system alongside traditional grades. Professors provide detailed written evaluations of student work, offering personalized feedback and assessment of progress.

• What are the strengths of Reed College in terms of academic departments?

  Reed College is particularly strong in the natural sciences (especially chemistry and physics), humanities (literature, history, philosophy), and mathematics. It has a reputation for producing graduates who excel in graduate studies and research careers in these fields.

• What are the strengths of Sarah Lawrence College in terms of academic departments?

  Sarah Lawrence College excels in the performing arts (theater, dance, music), creative writing, film, and interdisciplinary studies. Its open curriculum allows students to create unique combinations of courses and pursue their individual passions.

• Where are Reed College and Sarah Lawrence College located, and how does this affect student life?

  Reed College is located in Portland, Oregon, offering access to a vibrant city with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as outdoor recreational opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. Sarah Lawrence College is located in Bronxville, New York, a suburb of New York City. This provides students with easy access to the cultural and professional resources of one of the world's major metropolitan areas.

• What is the general cost of attendance for Reed College and Sarah Lawrence College?

  Both Reed College and Sarah Lawrence College are private institutions with similar high costs of attendance. Tuition, fees, and room and board typically fall within a comparable range. It's best to check the official websites of each college for the most up-to-date and accurate cost information, as well as details on financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

• What kind of student is likely to thrive at Reed College?

  A student who is intellectually curious, self-motivated, and enjoys a challenging academic environment is likely to thrive at Reed College. Someone who appreciates a strong sense of community, values intellectual debate, and is comfortable with a non-traditional grading system will also find Reed a good fit.

• What kind of student is likely to thrive at Sarah Lawrence College?

  A student who is creative, independent, and passionate about pursuing their own unique academic path is likely to thrive at Sarah Lawrence College. Someone who values close relationships with faculty, enjoys small seminar-style classes, and is drawn to the arts and humanities will also find Sarah Lawrence a good fit.

• Do Reed and Sarah Lawrence have core curriculum requirements?

  Reed College has a required freshman humanities course (Hum 110) and distribution requirements across different academic areas. Sarah Lawrence College does not have a traditional core curriculum. Instead, students work with their don (advisor) to design their own course of study based on their interests and academic goals.

• What are the career outcomes like for graduates of Reed and Sarah Lawrence?

  Graduates from both Reed and Sarah Lawrence go on to successful careers in a variety of fields. Reed graduates are well-prepared for graduate studies and research careers, particularly in the sciences and humanities. Sarah Lawrence graduates often pursue careers in the arts, media, education, and non-profit sectors. Both colleges emphasize critical thinking and communication skills, which are valuable in any profession.