As
a matter of fact, there IS a math department at
Barnard, and while it's small, it's quite wonderful. The
math departments at Columbia and Barnard are very intermixed; the
interschool courses are taught by Barnard professors as often as
by those from Columbia. You can't just look in
the directory for a BC next to a listing; a
great many V (University-wide) classes are taught by Barnard faculty.
The professors here actually speak English and teach very
well. That said, I didn't expect to major
in math when I first came here (but having a
few great teachers inspired me). I probably wouldn't have
come here had I planned to major in math (Barnard
is, after all, a liberal arts college), but I would
have been missing out. Overall, the academics have been
great, the professors engaging, the students enthusiastic, and I'm now
well in the running for the Ph.D. programs I want.
Socially, I've found Barnard to be a lot more diverse
than people give it credit for. I've managed to
avoid the JAPS, the feminazis, and the cranky Columbia rejects
completely, and meet a lot of really cool people.
Remember, the loudest groups are not always the largest.
But if you have problems with a queer community, enrolling
in any liberal college isn't a good idea. Especially
if it's a women's college (so consider your prejudices before
you apply to schools).
The greatest strength of Barnard is
that you can make whatever you want of it.
I wanted a traditional, academic undergraduate experience with faculty interaction
and opportunities for research and internships (with alumnae, who are,
additionally, really fantastic). And that's what I've made for
myself. Everyone can find their niche.
(and I know
we're not supposed to comment on other reviews, but really,
I hope no one would go to a school just
for its connection to another)
Articles
