Vassar College vs Sarah Lawrence College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in academic philosophy between Vassar and Sarah Lawrence?

  Vassar emphasizes a strong liberal arts foundation with a wide range of traditional departments and interdisciplinary programs. You'll find a structured curriculum with distribution requirements designed to ensure breadth of knowledge. Sarah Lawrence, on the other hand, is known for its highly individualized and self-directed approach to learning. The core of the Sarah Lawrence experience is the conference system, where you work closely with faculty in small groups and individual meetings to design your own course of study. Sarah Lawrence has no core curriculum.

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

  Vassar has a vibrant and active campus life with a strong sense of community. You'll find a wide array of student organizations, clubs, and activities, fostering a collaborative and engaged environment. Sarah Lawrence offers a more intimate and independent campus culture. While there are student organizations, the focus is often on smaller, more specialized groups and individual pursuits. The emphasis is on self-discovery and intellectual exploration.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment?

  Vassar is located in Poughkeepsie, New York, a mid-sized city in the Hudson Valley. While Poughkeepsie offers some amenities, many students take advantage of Vassar's resources and travel to nearby towns or New York City for more extensive cultural experiences. Sarah Lawrence is situated in Bronxville, New York, a small, affluent village just north of New York City. This location provides easy access to the city's vast cultural and professional opportunities, making it a significant advantage for students seeking internships or immersion in urban life.

• How do Vassar and Sarah Lawrence differ in terms of class size and faculty interaction?

  Both Vassar and Sarah Lawrence prioritize small class sizes and close faculty interaction. However, Sarah Lawrence takes this to an extreme. Vassar's average class size is around 17, and you'll have ample opportunities to connect with professors during office hours and in smaller seminars. Sarah Lawrence boasts even smaller classes, often with fewer than 15 students, and the conference system ensures highly personalized attention from faculty. At Sarah Lawrence, you'll work one-on-one with faculty to develop your academic plan.

• What are the strengths of Vassar and Sarah Lawrence in specific academic areas?

  Vassar is particularly strong in fields like English, political science, history, and the sciences. It offers well-established programs and research opportunities in these areas. Sarah Lawrence excels in the performing arts (theater, dance, music), creative writing, film, and interdisciplinary studies. Its emphasis on individualized learning allows you to tailor your studies to your specific interests within these fields.

• How do the admissions processes compare between Vassar and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Vassar and Sarah Lawrence have highly selective admissions processes. They both look for academically strong students with a passion for learning and a demonstrated commitment to their interests. However, Sarah Lawrence places a greater emphasis on the applicant's individual voice and creative expression in the application. The writing sample is a crucial component of the Sarah Lawrence application, showcasing your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Vassar values a well-rounded applicant with strong academic credentials and extracurricular involvement.

• What are the similarities between Vassar and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Vassar and Sarah Lawrence are highly regarded liberal arts colleges with a strong commitment to academic excellence. You'll find a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment at both institutions. Both colleges attract students who are passionate about learning, creative, and engaged in the world around them. They both offer small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a focus on undergraduate education.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare?

  Both Vassar and Sarah Lawrence offer comprehensive career services to help you prepare for life after graduation. You'll have access to career counseling, internship opportunities, and networking events. Vassar's alumni network is large and well-established, providing valuable connections in a variety of fields. Sarah Lawrence's alumni network, while smaller, is highly engaged and supportive, particularly in the arts and creative industries. Both networks can be valuable resources for your career development.

• What type of student thrives at Vassar versus Sarah Lawrence?

  Vassar is a good fit for students who appreciate a structured academic environment, a strong sense of community, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. If you thrive in a collaborative setting and enjoy exploring different academic disciplines, Vassar might be the right choice. Sarah Lawrence is ideal for students who are highly self-motivated, independent learners, and passionate about pursuing their own unique academic interests. If you value individualized attention, creative expression, and a close-knit community focused on intellectual exploration, Sarah Lawrence could be a great fit.

• How does the cost of attendance compare, and what financial aid opportunities are available?

  The cost of attendance at Vassar and Sarah Lawrence is comparable, as both are private liberal arts colleges. Both institutions offer generous financial aid packages to students who qualify, including need-based grants and merit-based scholarships. You should visit the financial aid websites of both colleges to estimate your potential financial aid package based on your family's financial situation. It's important to remember that the net cost of attendance (after financial aid) can vary significantly depending on your individual circumstances.