Anonymous wrote:I have a TJ kid, good grades, SAT, ECs, applying to SLACs. I would love them to apply to Pomona or CMC (or Mudd), but they want to say east of the Mississippi, and I am trying to respect that. We are knocking out schools with no merit aid (e.g., the NEASC schools), because they cost twice what WM does, and it isn’t worth it.
In addition to WM and VT School of Science, Davidson, Grinnell, Macalester, Kenyon, And Oberlin top their list. Wooster is an extreme safety, but everyone in our family is very impressed. We considered Denison, but it was not a great fit for our particular DC.
At no point did we seriously consider W&L. I get the impression it is more preprofessional (vs science research and pre-PhD). But the good old boy Southern atmosphere and the super strong Greek system knocked it out of contention. (To a less extent, this is why they are not applying to UVA).
I’m sure W & L is a good education for the right kid. My kid is not that kid. Interesting that TJ almost never has anyone apply or attend, despite in being in VA.
OP: getting into CMK is going to be a heavy lift from this area— maybe harder than an Ivy, because there are so many qualified kids, and CMK tries hard to mKe a super diverse class of 400–every state, dozens of counties, etc. They are only going to make so many DMV offers. But if you kid can get in and wants to go to CA. they should do for it. Grad schools and academic employers know all about it.
I’d pass on W & L. But I hate the good old southern frat boys and girls there to get their Mrs. culture.
It's too expensive and competitive for an Mrs. degree, try again.