Skidmore College vs St Lawrence University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Skidmore College and St. Lawrence University?

  Skidmore College, located in Saratoga Springs, NY, is known for its strong integration of liberal arts and pre-professional programs, particularly in business, arts, and sciences. St. Lawrence University, situated in Canton, NY, emphasizes a liberal arts education with a focus on experiential learning, outdoor programs, and a strong sense of community. Skidmore tends to attract students interested in a more urban-adjacent environment with access to cultural events, while St. Lawrence appeals to those seeking a close-knit, rural campus experience with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities.

• How do the academic programs at Skidmore and St. Lawrence compare?

  Both Skidmore and St. Lawrence offer a wide range of liberal arts majors. Skidmore is particularly well-regarded for its business, arts (especially theater and dance), and sciences programs. St. Lawrence has a strong reputation in environmental studies, government, and international studies. While both offer interdisciplinary programs, Skidmore's approach often involves a more direct connection to professional fields, while St. Lawrence emphasizes experiential learning through internships, study abroad, and research opportunities.

• What is the campus environment like at each school?

  Skidmore's campus is located in Saratoga Springs, offering students access to a vibrant city known for its arts, culture, and horse racing. The campus itself is modern and well-maintained. St. Lawrence's campus is in the more rural setting of Canton, NY, fostering a close-knit community. The campus is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and strong emphasis on outdoor activities. St. Lawrence tends to have a more traditional, residential college feel, while Skidmore offers a blend of campus life and access to a more urban environment.

• How do the student bodies at Skidmore and St. Lawrence differ?

  Both Skidmore and St. Lawrence attract academically strong students from across the United States and internationally. Skidmore tends to draw a slightly more diverse student body in terms of geographic origin and academic interests, with a higher percentage of students interested in arts and pre-professional fields. St. Lawrence often attracts students who are passionate about outdoor activities and environmental issues, fostering a strong sense of community and shared interests.

• What are the opportunities for study abroad at Skidmore and St. Lawrence?

  Both Skidmore and St. Lawrence offer extensive study abroad programs. Skidmore has a wide range of affiliated programs and partnerships around the world, allowing students to study in diverse locations and academic settings. St. Lawrence is known for its semester-long programs in various countries, often emphasizing immersive cultural experiences and language acquisition. Both institutions encourage students to participate in study abroad to broaden their perspectives and enhance their global awareness.

• How do the costs of attending Skidmore and St. Lawrence compare?

  The cost of attendance at both Skidmore and St. Lawrence is relatively similar, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Both institutions offer financial aid packages to eligible students based on need and merit. It's important to compare the specific financial aid offers from each school to determine the net cost of attendance for your individual circumstances. You should also consider the cost of living in each location, as Saratoga Springs may have slightly higher expenses than Canton.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Skidmore and St. Lawrence?

  Both Skidmore and St. Lawrence provide career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Skidmore's career services are well-connected to industries in the arts, business, and sciences, reflecting its strong pre-professional programs. St. Lawrence's career services emphasize experiential learning and networking opportunities, leveraging its strong alumni network in government, non-profit organizations, and environmental fields. Both institutions have active alumni networks that can provide valuable connections and support for graduates.

• What are the athletic programs like at Skidmore and St. Lawrence?

  Both Skidmore and St. Lawrence are members of the NCAA Division III and offer a variety of varsity sports. Skidmore is known for its strong equestrian program, as well as its ice hockey and field hockey teams. St. Lawrence has a strong tradition in ice hockey, lacrosse, and skiing. Both schools also offer a range of intramural and club sports for students who want to participate in athletics at a less competitive level. The athletic culture at St. Lawrence tends to be more prominent due to its more rural location and strong sense of community.

• What kind of student would thrive at Skidmore College?

  A student who is intellectually curious, creative, and interested in integrating liberal arts with pre-professional training would thrive at Skidmore. Someone who enjoys a vibrant city environment with access to arts, culture, and internship opportunities would also find Skidmore appealing. Students who are self-motivated and eager to take advantage of the college's resources and connections would be well-suited for Skidmore's academic and social environment.

• What kind of student would thrive at St. Lawrence University?

  A student who is passionate about the liberal arts, values experiential learning, and enjoys outdoor activities would thrive at St. Lawrence. Someone who seeks a close-knit community in a rural setting and is interested in environmental issues, government, or international studies would also find St. Lawrence appealing. Students who are independent, adventurous, and eager to engage in hands-on learning experiences would be well-suited for St. Lawrence's academic and social environment.