Williams College vs Sarah Lawrence College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in academic approach between Williams College and Sarah Lawrence College?

  Williams College emphasizes a traditional liberal arts education with a strong focus on tutorials (small group discussions) and a broad range of majors. Sarah Lawrence College, on the other hand, is known for its highly individualized and self-directed learning approach. Students design their own curriculum in consultation with faculty, focusing on in-depth study in their chosen areas.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Williams and Sarah Lawrence?

  Williams College, located in a small town, fosters a close-knit, residential community with a strong emphasis on student life and extracurricular activities. Sarah Lawrence, situated closer to New York City, offers a more independent and artistically driven environment, with students often taking advantage of the city's cultural resources.

• What is the student-faculty ratio and average class size at each college?

  Williams College boasts a student-faculty ratio of 6:1 and an average class size of 16, allowing for significant interaction with professors. Sarah Lawrence College has an even lower student-faculty ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 12, fostering a highly personalized learning experience.

• How do the admissions processes differ between Williams and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Williams and Sarah Lawrence have highly selective admissions processes. Williams places a strong emphasis on academic achievement, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement. Sarah Lawrence also values academic excellence but places a greater emphasis on creativity, intellectual curiosity, and a demonstrated ability to pursue independent study.

• What are the strengths of Williams College in terms of academic programs?

  Williams College is particularly strong in economics, political science, history, and the sciences. Its tutorial system is a hallmark of its academic rigor and fosters critical thinking and communication skills.

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

  Sarah Lawrence College excels in the arts, humanities, and interdisciplinary studies. It is particularly well-regarded for its programs in creative writing, theater, dance, film, and psychology. The college's emphasis on individualized learning allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests.

• How does the location of each college impact the student experience?

  Williams College is located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, a small, rural town that provides a traditional college town experience. This setting fosters a strong sense of community and allows students to focus on their studies and extracurricular activities. Sarah Lawrence College is located in Bronxville, New York, a suburb of New York City. This location provides students with easy access to the city's cultural, artistic, and professional opportunities.

• What are the career services and opportunities like at Williams and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Williams and Sarah Lawrence offer comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers. Williams College has a strong alumni network and provides extensive resources for students interested in finance, consulting, and other professional fields. Sarah Lawrence College focuses on helping students develop their creative and professional skills, with a strong emphasis on internships and networking opportunities in the arts and media industries.

• What are the similarities between Williams College and Sarah Lawrence College?

  Both Williams College and Sarah Lawrence College are highly selective liberal arts colleges that offer a rigorous academic experience and a strong sense of community. They both prioritize small class sizes and close interaction between students and faculty. Both institutions are committed to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.

• How do the costs of attendance compare between Williams College and Sarah Lawrence College?

  The cost of attendance at both Williams College and Sarah Lawrence College is relatively similar, placing them among the more expensive colleges in the United States. However, both institutions offer generous financial aid packages to help make education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. It's best to check their respective websites for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information.