Kenyon College vs Skidmore College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Kenyon College and Skidmore College?

  Kenyon College, located in rural Gambier, Ohio, offers a classic liberal arts experience with a strong emphasis on literature and writing. Skidmore College, situated in Saratoga Springs, New York, provides a more interdisciplinary approach, blending liberal arts with pre-professional programs and a vibrant arts scene. Kenyon is known for its close-knit residential community and traditional campus, while Skidmore offers a more diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities within a lively city environment.

• How do the academic programs at Kenyon and Skidmore compare?

  Both Kenyon and Skidmore offer strong liberal arts programs. Kenyon excels in English, history, and the humanities, fostering a rigorous intellectual environment. Skidmore is known for its strengths in the arts (especially dance and theater), business, and sciences, offering a more diverse range of majors and minors. Skidmore also has a unique self-determined major option, allowing students to create their own course of study.

• What is the campus environment like at each college?

  Kenyon's campus is located in a small, rural village, creating a very tight-knit and immersive college experience. The social life is centered around campus activities and traditions. Skidmore's location in Saratoga Springs provides students with access to a wider range of cultural events, restaurants, and entertainment options. While Skidmore also has a strong campus community, students often take advantage of the city's offerings.

• How do the student bodies at Kenyon and Skidmore differ?

  Both colleges attract academically strong and engaged students. Kenyon is known for attracting students interested in literature, writing, and a traditional liberal arts education. Skidmore tends to draw students with diverse interests, including the arts, sciences, and pre-professional fields. Skidmore also tends to have a slightly larger student body and a more diverse student population than Kenyon.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Kenyon and Skidmore?

  Both Kenyon and Skidmore offer comprehensive career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Skidmore's location near Albany and other major cities provides students with access to a wider range of internship opportunities in various fields. Kenyon leverages its alumni network and strong liberal arts foundation to help students succeed in a variety of careers. Both colleges emphasize experiential learning and provide resources to support students in pursuing their career goals.

• How do the costs of attending Kenyon and Skidmore compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Kenyon and Skidmore is relatively similar, as both are private liberal arts colleges. Tuition, fees, room, and board are significant expenses at both institutions. However, both colleges offer financial aid packages to help make education more accessible. It's best to check each college's website for the most up-to-date cost information and to explore their financial aid options.

• What are the athletic programs like at Kenyon and Skidmore?

  Both Kenyon and Skidmore offer a variety of NCAA Division III athletic programs. Kenyon is particularly strong in swimming and diving, with a long history of national championships. Skidmore offers a range of sports, including ice hockey, field hockey, and equestrian, and is known for its competitive teams. Both colleges emphasize the importance of athletics as part of a well-rounded education.

• What are some unique aspects of Kenyon College?

  Kenyon is known for its strong literary tradition, its beautiful and historic campus, and its close-knit residential community. The Kenyon Review, a renowned literary magazine, is based at the college. The college's tradition of formal dinners and academic rigor creates a unique and immersive intellectual environment.

• What are some unique aspects of Skidmore College?

  Skidmore is distinguished by its commitment to creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. The college's location in Saratoga Springs provides students with access to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Skidmore's self-determined major option allows students to design their own course of study, fostering intellectual independence and creativity.

• Which college is better for students interested in the arts?

  While both colleges value the arts, Skidmore College is generally considered to be stronger in the arts, particularly in dance, theater, and studio art. Skidmore's arts facilities are excellent, and the college's location in Saratoga Springs provides students with access to a thriving arts community. Kenyon also offers strong arts programs, but Skidmore's focus and resources in the arts are generally more extensive.