Vassar College vs Smith College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Vassar and Smith?

  Vassar and Smith both offer rigorous liberal arts educations, but there are nuances. Vassar is known for its flexible curriculum and interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to easily combine fields of study. Smith, as part of the Five College Consortium, provides access to a wider range of courses and resources across Amherst, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire, and UMass Amherst. While both have strong programs across the board, Smith is particularly renowned for its engineering program (Picker Engineering Program), a rarity at women's colleges, and its strong science offerings. Vassar excels in areas like drama, film, and English.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Vassar and Smith?

  Vassar is often described as having a more quirky and progressive campus culture, with a strong emphasis on student activism and individuality. Smith, while also progressive, tends to have a more traditional and academically focused atmosphere. Smith's strong sense of community is fostered by its house system, where students live in smaller, more intimate residential communities. Vassar's residential life is more centralized. Both are welcoming and inclusive environments, but the overall vibe differs slightly.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment?

  Vassar College is located in Poughkeepsie, New York, a mid-sized city with access to the Hudson River and nearby hiking trails. It's about a 90-minute train ride to New York City, offering convenient access to urban amenities. Smith College is situated in Northampton, Massachusetts, a vibrant college town known for its arts scene, independent shops, and restaurants. Northampton is smaller and more self-contained than Poughkeepsie, offering a more intimate and walkable environment. Smith's location within the Five College Consortium also provides access to the resources and social scenes of the other four campuses.

• How do Vassar and Smith differ in terms of student body size and demographics?

  Vassar has a slightly smaller student body than Smith. Vassar typically enrolls around 2,450 undergraduate students, while Smith enrolls around 2,600 undergraduate women. Both institutions attract a diverse student body from across the United States and around the world. Smith, as a women's college, has a unique demographic focus. Both colleges are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer substantial financial aid packages.

• What are the strengths of Vassar and Smith in terms of career services and alumni networks?

  Both Vassar and Smith have strong career services departments that provide students with resources for internships, job searching, and career counseling. Vassar's proximity to New York City provides opportunities for internships in various industries. Smith's strong alumnae network is a significant asset, offering mentorship and networking opportunities for students and graduates. Both colleges have active alumni communities that are supportive of their students' career aspirations.

• How do the residential experiences differ between Vassar and Smith?

  Vassar's residential life is centered around larger dormitories, fostering a sense of community within each building. Smith College utilizes a house system, where students live in smaller, self-governing houses, creating a more intimate and close-knit residential experience. Smith's house system is a defining feature of its campus culture. Both colleges offer a variety of housing options, including single and double rooms, and both prioritize creating inclusive and supportive residential environments.

• What are the similarities between Vassar and Smith?

  Vassar and Smith share many core similarities. Both are highly selective liberal arts colleges with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity. They both offer small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. Both colleges are known for their progressive values and their commitment to social justice. They both provide substantial financial aid to ensure that a high-quality education is accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

• How do Vassar and Smith approach athletics and extracurricular activities?

  Both Vassar and Smith offer a wide range of athletic and extracurricular opportunities. Vassar competes in NCAA Division III athletics, offering a variety of varsity sports. Smith also competes in NCAA Division III athletics and is part of the Seven Sisters athletic conference. Both colleges have active club sports and intramural programs. In terms of extracurricular activities, both Vassar and Smith offer a diverse array of student organizations, including clubs focused on academics, arts, politics, and social issues. Smith's location within the Five College Consortium expands the range of extracurricular activities available to its students.

• What are some unique programs or opportunities offered at Vassar that are not available at Smith, and vice versa?

  Vassar's strengths lie in its flexible curriculum and its renowned programs in drama, film, and English. Its location provides easy access to New York City's cultural resources. Smith's Picker Engineering Program is a unique offering for a women's college. Its membership in the Five College Consortium provides access to a wider range of courses, faculty, and resources across five campuses. Smith's house system is also a distinctive feature of its residential life.