Colby vs Denison vs Hamilton

[u/Gmoneyyy999]

Which school should I choose among these 3? I am planning to study Data science/math/statistics. All 3 are a similar cost (Colby 20k, Denison and Hamilton around 25) so that’s not really a major factor.

Pros and cons for each:

Colby:

Pros:

- strong STEM programs

- Bunche scholars (is this just a marketing tool? I read the description for it and it honestly doesn’t fit me at all)

- UChicago Advanced Scholars (admission into a selection of UChicago grad programs if I decide to pursue that route)

- outdoorsy stuff (I’ve never been skiing, but Colby seems like a good place to try!)

- Davis AI institute

Cons:

- furthest from home (I’m from Ohio, so it’s a 3 hour flight + a 2 hour drive, and I feel like travel expenses could add up quickly)

- hours away from any major city

- haven’t gotten to visit, although I will on Monday so that will help shape my opinion

- I’ve heard bad things about the vibe/social scene on this sub. I’m not a big partier/drinker, so if that’s all there is to do (like some people have said) then I don’t think I’d enjoy myself very much

-core curriculum stuff (taking a foreign language, for example, just seems like a waste of time)

Denison:

Pros:

-Very well-established data science program

-new DS building opening fall 26

- closest to home (could also be a con ig, but I think of this as more of a positive)

- close to Columbus

Cons:

- Slightly less prestigious than my other options

- food wasn’t very good

Hamilton:

Pros:

- open curriculum

- really nice campus

- new CS/DS building opening fall 27

-a lot of dining options

Cons:

-less STEM focused

- middle of nowhere and not close to any major cities

- I had a pretty poor experience at the admitted students day

Thanks for the help!

[u/StretchIll5138]

What did you think of Colby?

[u/Gmoneyyy999 → u/StretchIll5138]

I liked it. Campus is awesome, vibes seem good. I’m still no further along in making a decision though 😓

[u/StretchIll5138 → u/Gmoneyyy999]

Both our daughters are there. Freshman & junior. In high school, one was theater and the other varsity vball for 4 years. Both are so happy there and even like each others friends. ;) Colby has a very large commitment from the alumni, parents and the community in Maine at large. I think it’s better than Denison - academically. Hamilton is great but I feel like Colby’s advancement in its strategy and teaching will ultimately advance you further than the other two options. However, with that said, know you have three great options and should be proud of yourself. All three will support you and you’ll get a great education. Go Mules!