Washington and Lee vs Hamilton College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in location and campus setting between Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, Virginia, a small, historic town in the Shenandoah Valley. It offers a traditional, picturesque campus with a strong sense of community. Hamilton College, on the other hand, is situated in Clinton, New York, a village in the Mohawk Valley. Its campus is larger and more rural, providing a more secluded and nature-focused environment. Consider whether you prefer a small-town feel with historical charm or a more expansive, rural setting.

• How do the academic focuses and strengths of Washington and Lee and Hamilton differ?

  Washington and Lee is known for its strong undergraduate programs in law, journalism, and business, alongside its excellent liberal arts offerings. It also has a highly regarded undergraduate business school. Hamilton College emphasizes open curriculum and strong programs in creative writing, economics, and government. While both offer a strong liberal arts education, Washington and Lee has a more pre-professional bent, while Hamilton prioritizes intellectual exploration and independent study.

• What are the key differences in student body size and demographics between the two schools?

  Washington and Lee has a smaller undergraduate student body, typically around 1,800 students, fostering a close-knit community. Hamilton College is slightly larger, with around 2,000 undergraduates. While both attract academically strong students from across the country and internationally, Washington and Lee tends to draw a higher percentage of students from the South, while Hamilton has a stronger representation from the Northeast.

• How do the social scenes and extracurricular activities compare at Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  Washington and Lee has a strong Greek life presence, which plays a significant role in the social scene. It also offers a variety of clubs, organizations, and outdoor activities. Hamilton College has a more diverse social scene, with a wider range of student-led clubs, organizations, and performance groups. While both offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, Hamilton's rural location provides easier access to hiking and other outdoor pursuits. Consider whether you prefer a more traditional, Greek-life-centered social environment or a more diverse and independent social scene.

• What are the differences in curriculum structure and academic flexibility between Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  Washington and Lee has a more structured curriculum with core requirements and specific course offerings within each major. Hamilton College, known for its open curriculum, allows students greater flexibility in choosing their courses and designing their own academic path. If you prefer a guided academic experience with clear requirements, Washington and Lee might be a better fit. If you value academic freedom and the ability to explore a wide range of subjects, Hamilton's open curriculum could be more appealing.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare between Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  Both Washington and Lee and Hamilton have strong career services departments that provide students with resources for internships, job searching, and career counseling. Washington and Lee's alumni network is particularly strong in the fields of law, business, and journalism, offering valuable connections for students pursuing careers in those areas. Hamilton's alumni network is also robust, particularly in the Northeast, and offers strong support for students pursuing careers in various fields, including finance, technology, and the arts. Both schools offer excellent opportunities for career advancement.

• What are the similarities between Washington and Lee and Hamilton College?

  Both Washington and Lee and Hamilton College are highly selective liberal arts colleges that offer a rigorous academic experience. They both emphasize small class sizes, close relationships between students and faculty, and a strong sense of community. Both institutions are committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. They also both have beautiful campuses and a strong tradition of academic excellence.

• How do the costs of attendance and financial aid opportunities compare between Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  The cost of attendance at both Washington and Lee and Hamilton is comparable, as they are both private liberal arts colleges. Both institutions offer need-based and merit-based financial aid packages to help students afford tuition. It's important to visit the financial aid websites of both schools and use their net price calculators to get an estimate of your potential financial aid package. The actual amount of aid you receive will depend on your family's financial situation.

• What type of student typically thrives at Washington and Lee versus Hamilton?

  A student who thrives at Washington and Lee is often one who appreciates tradition, values a strong sense of community, and is interested in pre-professional opportunities alongside a liberal arts education. A student who thrives at Hamilton is typically independent, intellectually curious, and values academic freedom and a diverse social environment. Consider your own personality, learning style, and career aspirations when making your decision.

• How do the athletic programs and facilities compare at Washington and Lee and Hamilton?

  Both Washington and Lee and Hamilton College offer a variety of NCAA Division III athletic programs. Washington and Lee is part of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC), while Hamilton is part of the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). Both schools have comprehensive athletic facilities, including gyms, fields, and swimming pools. The level of competition is high at both institutions, and student-athletes are expected to balance their academic and athletic commitments.