Middlebury vs. Georgetown: A Comprehensive Look

Are you trying to choose between Middlebury and Georgetown for your college education? Both are known for their academic excellence, beautiful campuses, and vibrant student life. However, when it comes to making a choice, it’s important to consider a wide range of factors, from the history and background of the institutions to the cost of tuition and available financial aid. In this article, we will take a deep dive into both Middlebury vs. Georgetown, comparing and contrasting the key aspects of each university.

Introduction: Why Middlebury and Georgetown?

Before we dive into the details, it’s worth asking why Middlebury and Georgetown merit such close comparison. Both institutions have a reputation for academic rigor and prestige. Middlebury is a liberal arts college located in Vermont, while Georgetown is a private research university in Washington D.C.

Middlebury is known for its focus on undergraduate education, while Georgetown offers a range of graduate level programs in addition to its undergraduate offerings. Both have been around for over 200 years and have a long history of academic excellence and tradition.

One of the key differences between Middlebury and Georgetown is their location. Middlebury is situated in a small town in Vermont, surrounded by mountains and natural beauty. This provides a unique and peaceful environment for students to focus on their studies and engage in outdoor activities.

On the other hand, Georgetown is located in the heart of Washington D.C., providing students with access to a vibrant city and all the opportunities it offers, including internships, networking events, and cultural experiences.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the two institutions. Middlebury has a student body of around 2,500, while Georgetown has over 18,000 students. This means that Middlebury offers a more intimate and personalized learning experience, with smaller class sizes and more opportunities for one-on-one interaction with professors. Georgetown, on the other hand, provides a more diverse and dynamic community, with a wider range of academic and extracurricular options.

History and Background of Middlebury and Georgetown

Founded in 1800, Middlebury College is a private liberal arts college located in the town of Middlebury, Vermont. Originally established as a Congregationalist seminary, the college has evolved over the years into one of the nation’s top liberal arts colleges.

Today, Middlebury is known for its rigorous academics, world-class language programs, and beautiful campus. The college has a strong commitment to sustainability, and its Environmental Studies program is one of the best in the country.

In addition to its strong academics and commitment to sustainability, Middlebury University is also known for its vibrant student life. With over 150 student organizations, there is something for everyone to get involved in on campus.

From the Middlebury Outing Club, which organizes outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing, to the Middlebury College Democrats and Republicans, which provide opportunities for political engagement, students have a wide range of extracurricular activities to choose from. The university also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and performances.

Founded in 1789, Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the United States. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Georgetown has a long history of political and intellectual leadership. The university is known for its strong undergraduate programs in business, foreign service, and the arts and sciences, as well as its highly ranked law and medical schools. Georgetown boasts an impressive list of alumni, including several U.S. presidents.

Georgetown University has a rich history of social justice and activism. In the 1960s, students and faculty were heavily involved in the civil rights movement and anti-Vietnam War protests. Today, the university continues to prioritize social justice issues, with programs and initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In addition to its academic programs, Georgetown is also known for its beautiful campus and historic buildings. The university’s main campus is situated on 104 acres in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. and features a mix of Gothic and Georgian architecture. Notable buildings include Healy Hall, which was completed in 1879 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Dahlgren Chapel, which was built in 1893 and is a popular wedding venue for Georgetown alumni.

Academic Programs Offered by Middlebury vs. Georgetown

Middlebury College is primarily a liberal arts college, and its academic programs are centered around the core disciplines of the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college has a strong language program, with offerings in over 40 languages. Middlebury’s Bread Loaf School of English, located in the scenic Green Mountains, is one of the oldest and most prestigious summer programs in the country.

In addition to its strong language program, Middlebury College also offers a variety of interdisciplinary programs, such as Environmental Studies, International Politics and Economics, and Neuroscience. These programs allow students to explore complex issues from multiple perspectives and develop a well-rounded understanding of the world.

Furthermore, Middlebury is known for its study abroad programs, which offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures and gain a global perspective. The college has partnerships with over 40 universities around the world, and students can choose from a wide range of programs, from semester-long exchanges to intensive language immersion programs.

Georgetown offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular focus on business, international affairs, and the natural sciences. The university has several highly ranked professional schools, including the McDonough School of Business, the Walsh School of Foreign Service, and the Georgetown Law School. Georgetown also offers a range of academic programs and initiatives related to social justice and public service.

One of the unique academic programs offered by Georgetown University is the Georgetown Scholarship Program (GSP). GSP is a comprehensive program that provides financial assistance, academic support, and mentorship to high-achieving, low-income students. The program aims to increase access to higher education for students from underrepresented backgrounds and to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. GSP has been highly successful in helping students graduate with minimal debt and pursue successful careers in a variety of fields.

Campus Life: Student Activities and Organizations at Middlebury and Georgetown

At Middlebury, campus life is centered around a vibrant student community that is active in a wide range of activities and organizations. The college boasts over 150 student clubs and organizations, including music ensembles, athletic teams, cultural and identity-based groups, and a thriving outdoor recreation program. Middlebury is known for its close-knit community, and students are encouraged to get involved in campus life from their first day on campus.

One of the unique aspects of Middlebury’s student organizations is the emphasis on sustainability and environmentalism. The college has a strong commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices, and this is reflected in many of the student groups on campus.

For example, there is a student-run organic farm that provides produce for the dining halls, a group that advocates for divestment from fossil fuels, and a club that organizes outdoor trips with a focus on Leave No Trace principles. Students who are passionate about environmental issues can find many opportunities to get involved and make a difference at Middlebury.

Georgetown’s campus life is equally diverse and engaging. The university has a wide range of student clubs and organizations, covering everything from political activism to volunteerism. Students at Georgetown are known for their passion for social justice and their commitment to public service. The university also offers a range of athletic and recreational opportunities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and several varsity sports teams.

One of the most popular student organizations at Georgetown is the Georgetown University Student Association (GUSA), which serves as the official student government. GUSA advocates for student interests and works to improve the overall student experience at Georgetown. Additionally, the university has a thriving arts community, with student-run theater groups, music ensembles, and art clubs. These organizations provide students with opportunities to express their creativity and showcase their talents.

Faculty and Class Sizes at Middlebury vs. Georgetown

Both Middlebury and Georgetown are known for their highly qualified faculty and small class sizes. Middlebury has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, ensuring that students have ample access to their professors and mentors both inside and outside the classroom. Georgetown’s undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is slightly higher, at 11:1, but the university’s commitment to small class sizes and personalized attention is evident throughout its academic programs.

Additionally, Middlebury and Georgetown both offer opportunities for students to engage in research and independent study projects with faculty members. Middlebury’s Undergraduate Research Office provides funding and support for students to conduct research in a variety of fields, while Georgetown’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program offers similar resources and opportunities for students to work closely with faculty members on research projects. These programs allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop close relationships with their professors, further enhancing the personalized and rigorous academic experience at both institutions.

Tuition Costs and Financial Aid at Middlebury vs. Georgetown

The cost of college tuition can be a major factor in deciding where to apply. Both Middlebury and Georgetown are private and therefore have tuition rates higher than public institutions. Middlebury’s tuition and fees for the 2021-22 academic year totals $78,140 while Georgetown’s total comes to $59,120. However, both offer generous financial aid packages to students in need, and Middlebury is known for its no-loan policy for students who qualify for financial aid.

It is important to note that the cost of tuition is not the only expense that students will incur while attending college. Room and board, textbooks, and other fees can add up quickly. At Middlebury, the average cost of room and board is $16,000 per year, while at Georgetown it is $15,000 per year. Additionally, both offer work-study programs to help students offset the cost of attendance.

Another factor to consider when comparing the two is the availability of scholarships. Middlebury offers a variety of merit-based scholarships, including the Middlebury Scholarship, which covers full tuition for four years. Georgetown also offers merit-based scholarships, such as the Georgetown Scholarship Program, which provides full tuition coverage for eligible students. It is important for prospective students to research and apply for all available scholarships to help reduce the cost of attendance.

Admission Criteria and Selectivity of Middlebury vs. Georgetown

Admission to both Middlebury and Georgetown is highly competitive. Middlebury College had an acceptance rate of 24.7% for the Class of 2024, with 9,165 applicants and 2,266 students enrolled. Georgetown University had an acceptance rate of 11.7% for the Class of 2024, with 21,318 applicants and 2,543 students enrolled. Both consider a range of factors in making admissions decisions, including academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.

One of the factors that sets Middlebury apart from Georgetown is its emphasis on environmental sustainability. Middlebury has a long-standing commitment to sustainability, and it is reflected in the curriculum, campus operations, and student life. The college has a robust environmental studies program, and it has set ambitious goals for reducing its carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy. In contrast, while Georgetown has made some strides in sustainability, it has not made it a central focus of its mission.

On the other hand, Georgetown has a strong reputation for its international programs and global engagement. The university has a campus in Qatar, and it offers a wide range of study abroad opportunities for students.

Georgetown also has a strong commitment to social justice and public service, and it encourages students to engage in community service and advocacy. Middlebury also has a strong study abroad program, but it does not have the same level of international presence as Georgetown, and its focus on social justice is not as prominent.

Campus Facilities: Dorms, Dining, Libraries, and Athletics at Middlebury vs. Georgetown

Both Middlebury and Georgetown offer a range of on-campus facilities to support student life and academic pursuits. Middlebury has 21 residence halls, ranging from traditional dormitories to apartment-style living. The college has several dining halls and cafes and is known for its commitment to sustainable food practices.

The college also has a network of libraries, including the Davis Family Library, named one of the 30 most beautiful college libraries in the world. Georgetown has a range of modern and historic residence halls to choose from, as well as several dining options, including locally sourced and sustainable food choices. The university is home to several libraries, including the remarkable Lauinger Library.

In addition to the on-campus facilities, both Middlebury and Georgetown offer a variety of athletic options for students. Middlebury has a state-of-the-art athletic complex, including a field house, ice rink, and several outdoor fields and courts. The college has a strong tradition of athletic excellence, with 31 NCAA Division III teams. Georgetown also has a range of athletic facilities, including a fitness center, pool, and several outdoor fields and courts. The university has a Division I athletic program, with 29 varsity teams.

Both also offer a range of extracurricular activities and clubs for students to get involved in. Middlebury has over 150 student organizations, including a student-run radio station and a community service club. The college also has a strong arts community, with several student-run theater groups and a dance company. Georgetown has over 200 student organizations, including a student-run newspaper and a debate team. The university also has a strong commitment to community service, with several service-oriented clubs and programs.

Diversity and Inclusion Efforts at Middlebury vs. Georgetown

Both Middlebury and Georgetown have made a commitment to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of campus life. Middlebury’s Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion works to support historically underrepresented groups on campus and to foster a sense of community across differences.

Georgetown’s Center for Multicultural Equity and Access promotes a diverse and inclusive academic environment and supports students from underrepresented backgrounds. Both have active student-led diversity and inclusion initiatives and support groups.

However, Middlebury has taken additional steps to address diversity and inclusion on campus. In 2019, the college launched the Racial Justice Task Force, which is dedicated to examining and addressing issues of systemic racism and bias on campus.

The task force has already implemented several initiatives, including a bias reporting system and a mandatory diversity training for all faculty and staff. Additionally, Middlebury has made a commitment to increasing the diversity of its faculty and staff, with a goal of having 25% of faculty and staff come from underrepresented groups by 2025.

The Alumni Network of Middlebury vs. Georgetown: Career Opportunities and Connections

Both Middlebury and Georgetown have active and engaged alumni networks, which can provide valuable career connections and opportunities for graduates. Middlebury’s Career Services Office offers a range of resources and support to students and alumni, including career counseling, job and internship postings, and alumni mentoring programs. Georgetown’s Career Education Center provides students and alumni with a wide range of career services, including career assessments, personalized career coaching, and alumni networking events.

However, Middlebury’s alumni network has a strong focus on sustainability and environmentalism, with many graduates working in fields such as renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable agriculture. This provides unique opportunities for Middlebury alumni to connect with like-minded professionals and make a positive impact on the world.

On the other hand, Georgetown’s alumni network has a strong presence in politics and government, with many graduates working in positions of power and influence in Washington D.C. This can be advantageous for alumni interested in pursuing careers in public service or policy.

Conclusion: Which University is Better Suited for You?

Choosing between Middlebury and Georgetown can be a difficult decision. Both offer a world-class education and a vibrant student life. Ultimately, the decision will depend on a range of factors, including your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. It’s important to do your research and visit both campuses, if possible, to get a sense of the unique opportunities and culture of each university.

Whether you choose Middlebury or Georgetown, you can be assured that you will receive an education that will prepare you for success in whatever field you choose.

One factor to consider when choosing between Middlebury and Georgetown is the location. Middlebury is located in a small town in Vermont, while Georgetown is located in the heart of Washington D.C. Depending on your personal preferences, you may prefer the quiet, rural setting of Middlebury or the bustling city atmosphere of Georgetown.

Another factor to consider is the size of the universities. Middlebury has a student population of around 2,500, while Georgetown has a student population of around 18,000. If you prefer a smaller, more intimate learning environment, Middlebury may be the better choice for you. However, if you thrive in a larger, more diverse community, Georgetown may be the better fit.