Union College in Schenectady, New York, and Colby College in Waterville, Maine, are both selective private liberal arts colleges with rich histories and strong academic cultures. This essay provides a detailed comparison of the two colleges in several areas: academic offerings and reputation, admissions selectivity and student profile, campus life and student experience, cost of attendance and financial aid, post-graduation outcomes, and location, campus resources, and facilities. The tone is objective and scholarly, relying on data and statistics from reliable sources. While maintaining neutrality, the discussion will highlight aspects where Union College may be seen positively in context.
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‍Academic Offerings and Institutional Reputation
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‍Both Union College and Colby College provide strong liberal arts programs, but they have different academic focuses and ranges of study. Union College, founded in 1795, combines liberal arts with engineering and STEM fields. It offers a full liberal arts curriculum across 21 academic departments, including ABET-accredited engineering programs. This makes Union one of the few top liberal arts colleges that award engineering degrees while emphasizing science and technology alongside the humanities. On the other hand, Colby College, established in 1813, is a traditional liberal arts college that grants only Bachelor of Arts degrees, offering 46 majors and 37 minors across the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Colby does not have an engineering department and instead focuses on areas like environmental science, economics, government, and interdisciplinary studies. The academic calendars also show differences: Union uses a trimester system with three 10-week terms and a longer winter break, while Colby follows a 4-1-4 schedule with a short “Jan Plan” term each January for focused study or internships. About 90% of Colby students participate in Jan Plan projects, highlighting its significance in their academic journey.

In terms of educational atmosphere and teaching style, both colleges offer close-knit learning environments. The student-faculty ratios are roughly 9:1 at Union and 10:1 at Colby, and classes are generally small. At Union, introductory courses average around 24 students, while upper-level courses average about 14. Similarly, about two-thirds of courses at Colby enroll fewer than 20 students, with many having single-digit attendance. This close engagement between students and faculty is evident in undergraduate research opportunities: about 80% of Union students participate in faculty-mentored research during their studies, a notable figure that compares well to Colby’s focus on independent research and internships through its DavisConnects program, which guarantees all students funded experiences. Both colleges also support study abroad. Over 60% of Union students study abroad during their college years, while approximately 70% of Colby students have international study experiences, with nearly 200 programs available in 60 countries. These figures reflect a shared commitment to experiential learning on a global scale.

Both institutions have strong reputations, though Colby has a higher national ranking in liberal arts college surveys. In the U.S. News & World Report 2024 rankings of National Liberal Arts Colleges, Colby is ranked #25 (tied), while Union is ranked #45. Colby is often associated with prestigious New England liberal arts colleges, being part of the NESCAC athletic conference and the informal “Colby-Bates-Bowdoin” trio in Maine. In contrast, Union is also consistently ranked among the nation’s top colleges and has historical importance as the first college chartered by the New York State Board of Regents in 1795. In the 19th century, Union earned the nickname “Mother of Fraternities” for establishing three of the earliest Greek-letter societies. While rankings may vary, both schools enjoy solid academic reputations on both regional and national levels. Colby’s standing has recently been strengthened by a growing endowment and initiatives, such as achieving carbon neutrality and launching new centers like the Davis Institute for Artificial Intelligence. Union, on the other hand, is recognized for producing graduates strong in both liberal arts and engineering, with nearly 49% of Union alumni holding degrees in STEM fields, an unusually high rate for a liberal arts college.

In summary, both Colby and Union provide excellent liberal arts education. However, Union’s integration of engineering and technical programs distinguishes it from Colby and many similar institutions. Colby offers a purely liberal arts and science curriculum, showcasing unique features like the Jan Plan. Both colleges maintain close-knit classes and extensive research and study-abroad opportunities, which reinforce their reputations as top-tier undergraduate institutions.
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‍Admissions Competitiveness and Student Profile
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‍Admissions selectivity is an area where the two colleges differ significantly. Colby College has become very selective in recent years. It received over 20,000 applications for its Class of 2029 and admitted only 8% of applicants. This single-digit acceptance rate places Colby among the most selective liberal arts colleges in the U.S. The middle 50% SAT scores for Colby’s incoming class were 1450 to 1540, while the middle 50% ACT scores ranged from 32 to 34. This indicates very high academic credentials among admitted students. In comparison, Union College is selective but not as competitive, with an admission rate of around 44% in a recent cycle, as it had 9,295 applicants for Fall 2023. The middle-range scores of Union’s enrolled freshmen are also strong but slightly lower. The 25th to 75th percentile SAT for Union’s Class of 2027 was approximately 1310 to 1480 (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing plus Math), and the ACT composite middle 50% scores ranged from 30 to 33. Union reported a median SAT of about 1400 and a median ACT of 32 for its incoming class, which is comparable to many top colleges. Both institutions are test-optional in admissions. In Union’s case, only about 36% of enrolling students submitted SAT scores, while 13% submitted ACT scores. Testing is not required for admission. Colby also adopted a test-optional policy and has seen a surge in applications. The differences in admission rates partly reflect this increase in applications to Colby as well as focused recruitment efforts. Colby’s yield, the percentage of admitted students who enroll, is relatively high. In contrast, Union’s yield was about 14% for Fall 2023, indicating that many Union admits had other options. Nonetheless, Union’s applicant pool is strong, and the college describes itself as "highly selective." Thus, the two schools present different admissions landscapes. Colby’s entering class profile is among the most academically elite in the nation, while Union’s profile, though slightly less exclusive, remains competitive and includes a broader range of high-achieving students.

Beyond test scores and admission percentages, the student demographics and profiles at each college show both similarities and differences. Undergraduate enrollment is in a similar range. Union has about 2,030 full-time undergraduates (2,082 in Fall 2023), whereas Colby has around 2,400 students on campus. Both colleges attract students from across the nation and around the world. Colby’s student body comes from over 45 U.S. states and more than 80 countries. Union’s students come from 40 states and 50 countries, highlighting a broad geographic reach for both. The domestic ethnic diversity is somewhat higher at Colby, with about 31% of Colby students being Americans of color and 11% international. Union’s latest figures show 26% domestic students of color and 11% international students. This is comparable, though slightly lower in the percentage of U.S. students of color. Both colleges are striving to increase diversity and inclusion. Colby also reports around 14% first-generation college students, indicating a commitment to access. In terms of gender balance, the profiles differ. Colby’s enrollment is roughly 51% female and 49% male, which is typical for many liberal arts colleges. In contrast, Union’s student population is about 45% female and 55% male. Union’s higher proportion of male students may come from its engineering programs and its history as a former all-male institution (Union became coeducational in 1970).

Despite differences in admission odds, both schools maintain a high academic caliber in their student bodies. For instance, Union’s enrolled freshmen who submitted scores had a median SAT of 1400 and an ACT of 32, consistent with top-50 liberal arts colleges. At Colby, where submitting scores is less common now, one can suggest similar or higher medians. Indeed, a median ACT of 33 was reported, and about 90% of Colby freshmen ranked in the top 10% of their high school class, according to earlier Common Data Sets. Both institutions also emphasize holistic admissions by seeking well-rounded students. They consider letters of recommendation, essays, and interviews. Union, for example, requires interviews for some combined programs, such as its Leadership in Medicine program, and values personal qualities alongside academics. Colby’s admissions look for students who will contribute to campus life and often pursue notable community or global engagement. Colby’s admissions materials highlight programs like their Maine Commitment and the recruitment of diverse talent.

In summary, Colby College’s admissions are significantly more competitive, reflecting its rise in prestige. It enrolls a slightly larger and more ethnically diverse group of students with very strong academic metrics. Union College, while more accessible in admissions, continues to attract high-achieving students and offers a solid academic profile, particularly supported by those interested in its engineering and science offerings. Each student body is talented and broadly drawn, but the chances of admission and the statistical profile of an average student differ considerably. This is an important consideration for applicants weighing reach versus match schools.
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‍Campus Life, Housing, and Student Experience
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‍Campus life at Union and Colby is defined by their residential environments, extracurricular activities, and unique social traditions. Both colleges are primarily residential, which means nearly all students live on campus during their studies. Colby guarantees housing, and almost all students stay on campus for all four years. This creates a strong collegiate community. Union also hosts nearly all students on campus, noting that students typically live there for their entire time at Union. It has a special residential system called the Minerva Houses. Union’s seven Minerva Houses serve as centers for academic, social, and residential life, allowing all students and faculty to participate, regardless of class year. Every Union student is assigned to one of these houses, which organize events and discussions, adding a layer of community beyond the traditional dorm setup. This system is unique to Union and encourages interaction among students from various majors and years in a non-fraternity social setting.

In addition to housing, there are many extracurricular and co-curricular opportunities at both colleges. Union College offers over 130 student-run clubs and organizations that include academic groups, performing arts, cultural organizations, and service clubs. Similarly, Colby College has more than 125 clubs, including a student government, an outdoors club, and a capella groups. Students at both schools find it easy to get involved and even to start new clubs in the small-college setting. When it comes to athletics, both compete in NCAA Division III for most sports. However, Union’s men’s and women’s ice hockey teams compete in NCAA Division I (ECAC), which is a point of pride, especially after Union’s 2014 national championship in men’s hockey. Union has 26 varsity teams, with 24 at Division III in the Liberty League, and about one-third of the student body participates in intercollegiate athletics. Colby is part of the NESCAC, a Division III league often called the Ivy League of D-III, with 32 varsity teams, including alpine and Nordic skiing at the Division I level. Both schools have a sports culture, but neither is defined solely by athletics; they focus on scholar-athletes. For those who enjoy recreational sports, both Union and Colby have extensive intramural and club sports programs, along with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Colby's location in Maine supports skiing and hiking, while Union’s proximity to the Adirondacks and Catskills offers similar outdoor experiences.

A significant difference in campus social life is the presence or absence of Greek life. Union College has a rich history of fraternities and sororities, currently hosting 10 fraternities and 3 sororities, some with chapter houses, which students can join starting in their sophomore year. About 25% to 33% of Union students typically participate in Greek life, which contributes to social events, volunteer projects, and alumni networking. Union, famously known as the Mother of Fraternities, has a Greek scene that exists alongside the Minerva House system and other social options, broadening the social outlets on campus. In contrast, Colby College has no fraternities or sororities as its Greek system was abolished in 1984, and the college enforces a ban on any Greek-letter organizations on or off campus. Colby actively promotes an inclusive social environment without exclusive clubs, encouraging students to socialize through dorm communities, organized events, clubs, and class activities. The administration believes that single-gender exclusive organizations do not align with Colby’s values and has suspended students for attempting to form underground fraternities. Thus, Union offers a traditional collegiate social scene, including Greek life alongside other options, while Colby focuses on an inclusive social life centered around campus-wide events and residential life programs. Each model has its advantages; Union’s Greek life provides networking opportunities and traditions, while Colby’s approach fosters a more universally accessible social environment.

Campus culture at both schools is close-knit and academically engaged. Student satisfaction can be partly measured through retention and graduation rates, as well as survey feedback. Both colleges report high freshman retention rates; around 89% at Union and approximately 91% to 94% at Colby, with Colby’s first-year retention reaching 94% in some years. These rates indicate that most first-year students return for their sophomore year, reflecting overall satisfaction and a good fit. Graduation rates also show student success: Union’s overall six-year graduation rate is about 85%, while Colby’s is around 90%. Daily life at both colleges focuses on traditions and community. Union boasts events like the annual Steinmetz Symposium, where students present research, and Springfest, as well as activities in the Minerva Houses. Colby has its own traditions, such as Loudness weekend and Doghead, an annual celebration, along with a strong culture of outdoor orientation trips for first-year students.

Regarding diversity and inclusion, both schools have programs to support students from all backgrounds. Union’s strategic plans focus on improving diversity and it has various multicultural and identity-based student organizations, with 26% of domestic students being students of color. Colby, with 31% of its domestic students being students of color, has similarly invested in offices for diversity and inclusion. The college has recently been recognized for recruiting high-achieving low-income students through partnerships with programs like Posse and QuestBridge. Colby moved away from Greek life partly to reduce social segregation and instead promotes unity through campus-wide civic engagement and service learning, with over half of the students volunteering in the local community during their time there.In summary, campus life at Union and Colby is lively and fully residential, featuring rich extracurricular programs. Union’s social life is marked by Minerva Houses, Greek life, and Division I hockey spirit, providing a variety of social options. In comparison, Colby is characterized by an inclusive environment free of fraternities, with strong involvement in outdoor activities and campus events. Both campuses promote tight-knit communities, supported by their small size and residential living, leading to strong student engagement and positive satisfaction indicators, including high retention and graduation rates. Students at either institution will find a supportive environment where professors know their students and peers build close connections. The choice ultimately hinges on personal preferences for social structures, location, and academic features.
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‍Cost of Attendance, Net Price, and Financial Aid Generosity
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‍Attending either Union or Colby is a significant financial commitment, as both are private colleges with total fees of around or above $85,000 per year. However, each college provides substantial financial aid, and they have different approaches. For example, Union offers merit scholarships, while Colby's aid is strictly need-based.

For the 2025–2026 academic year, Colby College's total “sticker” price is about $91,650 per year. This includes tuition and fees of roughly $72,910, plus standard room and board of $18,740. Union College’s total cost is similar but slightly lower; for 2024–2025, tuition and fees are $69,039, and with housing and meals (about $18,000), the comprehensive cost is around $87,000 to $88,000 per year. These prices place both schools among the most expensive colleges in the U.S., which is typical for private liberal arts institutions. Importantly, both colleges aim to reduce costs for students with financial need through institutional aid.

Colby's financial aid is noteworthy. It is one of the few colleges that are need-blind in admissions and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. About 44% of Colby students receive need-based financial aid, and for the Class of 2029, the average first-year financial aid package was $77,757 in grants, not loans. This high average reflects Colby’s policy of meeting need, often without loans. Colby is known for replacing loans with grants for families below certain income levels. As a result, the average net price is relatively low for those who qualify for aid. For instance, families earning under $75,000 typically pay only a few thousand dollars per year. Colby’s data show that for a family earning $0 to $30,000, the average net price is about $6,481; for $30,000 to $48,000, it's about $15,000; and for $48,000 to $75,000, about $17,000. Even families in the $75,000 to $110,000 range pay an average of $24,000. Only families earning above $110,000 per year approach the full sticker price, with an average net of $37,900 in that bracket. Additionally, Colby does not offer merit scholarships, as all aid is need-based; 0% of students receive non-need merit awards. The college has focused its resources on need-based aid, supported by a $1+ billion endowment. It offers initiatives like the Colby Commitment, which ensures families earning below a certain income level will have a parent contribution of $0. Overall, Colby’s financial aid policies are very generous for those who qualify, significantly lowering costs for middle- and low-income families.

Union College also provides substantial aid, but with a different philosophy that includes merit aid. Over 60% of Union students receive need-based scholarship aid from the college, a higher percentage than at Colby, suggesting Union enrolls more middle-income students who qualify for some need-based assistance. Union aims to meet most demonstrated need, and while it is not officially need-blind, it strives to meet the needs of admitted students. The average need-based aid package at Union exceeds $55,000 per year, a significant amount, but lower than Colby’s average due to more partial-need cases and a slightly lower sticker price. In addition to need-based aid, Union College offers merit scholarships to attract top students, which Colby does not do. According to Union, about 25% of students receive merit scholarships, which range from $10,000 to $46,000 per year, renewable for four years. These merit awards recognize academic talent, leadership, or other qualities and are given regardless of financial need, often stacking on top of need-based aid. This approach can make Union financially attractive to strong students who might not qualify for need-based aid at colleges focused solely on need. Due to need and merit aid, Union’s average net price for students receiving aid was around $42,884 for the 2022–2023 year. While this net cost is higher than Colby’s for aid recipients, Union's figure is still significantly below the sticker price, meaning the college was covering roughly half of the total costs through scholarships for those receiving aid. Union also participates in programs like the Federal Pell Grant and offers special scholarships; for example, it is a Yellow Ribbon Program participant for veterans.

For families in higher income brackets who do not receive aid, costs at Colby and Union are both high and relatively comparable, in the mid to high $80,000 range per year. However, for a student with demonstrated need, Colby often results in a lower out-of-pocket cost thanks to its generous need-based grants and no-loan policy. On the other hand, for a high-achieving student from a middle or higher income family who might not qualify for much need-based aid, Union’s merit scholarships could significantly lower costs in a way Colby would not, since Colby would expect full payment in that case. Thus, from a cost perspective, Union can seem favorable for families seeking merit aid or those just above typical need cutoffs, while Colby is particularly beneficial for low-income families due to its strong need-based aid. It’s important to note that both colleges maintain financial aid budgets that make them among the more generous institutions nationally. For instance, 44% of Colby students on aid is a large share for a school with a low admit rate, and over 60% on aid at Union demonstrates a commitment to socioeconomic diversity. Furthermore, both schools minimize student debt: Colby’s packages are loan-free for most need-based aid recipients, and Union’s average federal student loan debt among graduates is relatively low, with only 25% of Colby students taking federal loans, averaging about $2,500 per year. Union’s Common Data Set similarly shows modest borrowing levels. Each college also has a net price calculator to offer personalized cost estimates to applicants, highlighting the importance of financial fit.

In summary, Union College and Colby College have similar high sticker prices but differ in their aid models. Colby gives only need-based aid and has one of the highest average aid packages in the country, making it very affordable for those who demonstrate need. It does not offer merit scholarships. Union meets significant need and also offers merit awards to attract talent, benefiting students who may not qualify for need-based aid. Both aim to make themselves accessible; Union distributes about $80 million in institutional scholarships and grants each year, a large investment, and Colby similarly invests heavily in aid. Prospective students should consider not just the sticker price but also these aid policies. Depending on individual circumstances, one college might offer a more beneficial financial package than the other.


‍Post-Graduation Outcomes (Employment, Grad School, Salaries)
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‍Graduates from Union and Colby achieve great success in starting their careers or continuing their education in graduate or professional schools. This success highlights the strong educational foundation at both institutions. Key outcome metrics are very positive for both colleges. Union shows excellent job placement, and Colby sometimes has slightly higher rates, although both are among the top national benchmarks for liberal arts colleges.

The employment and graduate school placement rates are extremely high for both colleges within six months to a year after graduation. For instance, 98% of Colby’s Class of 2024 found jobs or enrolled in graduate school within one year. This outcome, nearly full employment or continued education, is typical at Colby; the previous year's Class of 2023 had a 95% placement rate within six months. Union College also shows strong outcomes; about 92% of Union’s Class of 2022 secured their next steps shortly after graduation (around six months later). In that cohort, 70% entered full-time jobs, and 18% immediately began full-time graduate or professional studies, with only a small percentage still looking for positions. These statistics demonstrate that a degree from Union or Colby is highly valued by employers and graduate programs. The 92% to 98% placement range is well above the national averages for recent college graduates, which typically fall between 85% and 90% within six months for bachelor’s degree holders. This success underlines the effectiveness of the career services and alumni networks at each college.

The career fields and top employers for graduates from the two schools show some similarities and differences, often reflecting their academic programs. Colby and Union both have graduates working in a variety of sectors, including finance, consulting, technology, education, research, and healthcare. Colby’s recent graduates primarily enter industries like finance, consulting, healthcare, technology, and education. In one recent class, about 80% began working right after graduation at companies such as Amazon, Accenture, Brown Brothers Harriman, Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Colby also notes that many alumni move on to top graduate programs, boasting an 87% acceptance rate for law school and a 71% acceptance rate for medical school over five years, both well above national averages. Union College’s alumni have diverse outcomes as well, with a significant number in technical and engineering roles alongside finance and consulting. Major employers for Union graduates include companies like IBM, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Fidelity Investments, Morgan Stanley, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, and Bank of America, indicating strong representation in finance and tech. Many Union graduates also pursue advanced degrees in fields such as medicine, law, business, and engineering. Graduates from the Class of 2022 went on to places like Albany Medical College, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Union’s established Leadership in Medicine program offers a pipeline for students to go directly to medical school. Both colleges also provide strong support for competitive fellowships; Colby has produced Fulbright scholars and Watson fellows, while Union regularly sees its students awarded Fulbright, Watson, and NSF research fellowships, demonstrating the academic strength of their graduates.

When it comes to income, available data suggests that both Union and Colby alumni fare very well, with Union possibly having an advantage in mid-career earnings due to its engineering and STEM graduates. Colby reports that its graduates earn a median annual salary of over $129,500. While it's unclear what career stage this median reflects, it likely indicates mid-career earnings. This figure shows that Colby alumni achieve significant success in their fields, well above the national median for college graduates. Union College alumni salaries are similarly impressive. PayScale data indicates that Union alumni have a mid-career median salary around $156,000 for those with only a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, recent graduates from Union have a starting median salary of about $81,700, with a mid-career median of $155,700 for alumni with only a bachelor’s degree, which ranks among the highest figures for liberal arts colleges in the country. By comparison, Colby’s self-reported median may include alumni with graduate degrees or be measured differently. Regardless, both schools clearly produce graduates with strong earning potential. In another data point ten years after graduation, Colby alumni had an average salary of approximately $58,100, while Union's Class of 2008 had a median salary around $59,000. Over time, earnings for graduates increase significantly. The higher mid-career figures for Union likely reflect the large number of graduates in high-paying STEM and business fields. Colby graduates also enter finance, which pays well, but many work in research, education, public service, or policy—fields impactful but often with lower starting salaries. Nonetheless, salary outcomes for both are strong; in an independent ranking of New York State colleges based on alumni earnings, Union College ranked #20 with a Salary Score of 73 out of 100, indicating above-average alumni salaries related to student demographics. Colby would likely score well in similar analyses due to its median outcomes and the high proportion of graduates going into lucrative fields or prestigious graduate programs.

Another measure of outcomes is graduate school placement and acceptance into professional schools. Both Union and Colby prepare students well for further studies. Colby reports that 15% of its graduates go directly to graduate school, with many more enrolling within a few years. Recent graduates have entered elite programs such as those at Dartmouth, Columbia, Duke, and Georgetown. Union typically sees 15% to 20% go straight to graduate school. Top graduate school destinations for Union students include respected research universities in fields like business (MBA programs), engineering (for those pursuing advanced degrees beyond undergraduate engineering), law, and medicine. Both colleges offer pre-professional advising; Colby has dedicated pre-law and pre-health advisors and reports an 87% law school acceptance rate and a 71% medical school acceptance rate over five years. Union College also prepares students well for health and law professions; while specific percentages are not available, the outcomes of Union’s Health Professions Program and alumni suggest acceptance rates well above national averages for medical schools. For example, graduates of Union’s Leadership in Medicine matriculate to Albany Medical College or other partner medical schools at nearly 100%, as it’s a direct-admit program. Both colleges benefit from loyal alumni networks that assist recent graduates with internships and job placements. Colby’s DavisConnects office funds internships and research opportunities for students, enhancing their resumes and applications for graduate school. Union’s Career Center also helps students find internships, with 85% completing at least one during their time at college. Surveys show high levels of career satisfaction; nearly 85% of Union alumni feel their jobs are meaningful and say that Union prepared them well.

In summary, post-graduation outcomes for both Union and Colby are excellent by any standard. Nearly all recent graduates from Colby are employed or in graduate school within a year, and Union’s outcomes are similar. Colby alumni, on average, earn very high salaries, often in six figures at mid-career. Union alumni salaries are also impressive, with some data suggesting even higher mid-career figures due to the presence of engineering and technical graduates in its alumni base. Both colleges have strong pathways to elite graduate programs and professional schools, supported by rigorous academics and personalized advising. Students from either institution can feel confident that their degrees will be respected and that they will connect with active alumni networks. If one were to view things favorably for Union, one could argue that its combination of liberal arts and engineering/business education creates graduates with versatile skills, often earning high salaries. Union alumni rated their return on investment highly on PayScale. Colby, meanwhile, provides excellent preparation for various careers and demonstrates that even graduates focused on humanities or social sciences excel in competitive job markets and graduate school admissions—showing the value of a Colby education. Ultimately, both Union and Colby help transform students into successful alumni, and their quantitative outcomes place them among the top liberal arts colleges for career and graduate school success.
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‍Location, Campus Resources, and Facilities
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‍The physical location and campus environment of Union College and Colby College are quite different. One is in an urban area of upstate New York, while the other is in a rural New England setting. Yet both campuses are beautiful, well-equipped, and essential to the student experience.

Union College is in Schenectady, New York, a small city in the Capital District, about 20 minutes from Albany, the state capital. Union’s campus is often described as a green oasis in the city. It spans 120 acres and was the first planned college campus in the United States. The campus features a blend of historic and modern architecture designed according to classical principles. The centerpiece is the Nott Memorial, a remarkable 16-sided dome built in 1875 that is a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of Union. The campus combines old and new, with Memorial Chapel and the Nott Memorial showcasing 19th-century design, while the Peter Irving Wold Center and the recently opened Integrated Science and Engineering Complex offer cutting-edge STEM facilities. Union’s campus also includes the eight-acre Jackson’s Garden, which has woodland gardens and trails, along with modern apartment-style residence halls and traditional dorms. Because Union is located in a city, students have access to the amenities of Schenectady, such as restaurants and theaters. Proctors Theatre downtown hosts Broadway shows, and students can find internships in the Capital Region. Outdoor recreation is about an hour away in the Adirondack Mountains, where Union has an outing club that takes advantage of skiing, hiking, and rivers in upstate New York. Additionally, Union's location allows it to be approximately three hours from major cities like New York City, Boston, and Montreal, making it easy for students to take urban excursions. Campus resources at Union include Schaeffer Library, which holds over a million volumes and a technology commons, newly updated science labs, engineering makerspaces, fine arts studios, and galleries, including the Mandeville Gallery in the Nott Memorial. It also has the Hale House dining hall and Reamer Campus Center as student hubs. Recently, Union built a large student union and administration building. The college offers strong technology and research resources due to its emphasis on undergraduate research, which includes many labs, a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, and an observatory for student use. One unique facility is the Union College Aerogel Lab, where undergraduates assist in producing aerogel materials, reflecting Union’s hands-on approach to science.

Colby College is located in Waterville, Maine, a town of about 16,000 in a rural area of central Maine. The Colby campus sits atop Mayflower Hill and covers 714 acres. It features a main academic quad with Georgian-style brick buildings and expansive green lawns, as well as fields, woods, and a nearby arboretum. The campus is known for its scenic beauty. It offers views of the Kennebec River valley and is close to lakes and forests. Colby’s physical plant has experienced notable expansion and modernization in recent years. The college opened a new advanced science building, the Davis Science Center, and the Hall of Science to support its growing STEM programs. It also established the Davis Institute for Artificial Intelligence, the first AI institute at a liberal arts college. Colby improved the downtown area with the Bill & Joan Alfond Main Street Commons, a mixed-use residence hall and community space. A standout facility on campus is the Colby College Museum of Art, which boasts over 10,000 works and a large gallery space. It ranks as one of the premier college art museums in the nation, and the largest in Maine. Both students and visitors appreciate the museum’s collections, which include a wing donated by artist Alex Katz. The campus library, Miller Library, is an iconic clock-tower building at the center of campus. Colby’s athletic facilities are exceptional for its size. In 2020, it opened the Harold Alfond Athletics and Recreation Center, a 350,000-square-foot complex with an Olympic-sized pool, hockey arena, basketball arena, indoor track, and fitness facilities. This center ranks among the finest in Division III athletics. Outside, there are numerous fields, a cross-country course, and access to nearby Quarry Road trails for skiing. Colby’s location offers plenty of outdoor opportunities. Students can ski at Sugarloaf or Sunday River, where the college provides discounts and transportation. They can hike in Maine’s mountains and enjoy the coast. Colby also owns an Island Campus, which consists of two small islands off the Maine coast used for research and retreats. While Waterville’s rural setting means fewer urban amenities, the college has invested in the town, attracting new restaurants and shops. Portland, Maine’s largest city, is about an hour away. Colby also runs a shuttle to Boston during breaks, which is roughly three and a half hours away, and to Portland.

Regarding campus environment and resources, both schools offer modern academic facilities and comfortable living arrangements. Union’s urban edge means some parts of its campus interact with city streets, while Colby’s campus is self-contained atop a hill. Importantly, Colby achieved carbon-neutral operations in 2013, a point of pride for the institution. Sustainability initiatives at Colby include solar farms, biomass heating, and a commitment to environmental stewardship that matches its strong Environmental Studies program. Union also has sustainability programs, including a campus cogeneration plant and solar panel installations. However, Colby is often recognized as a leader in sustainability among colleges. Each campus has traditions linked to its facilities. At Union, graduating seniors walk through Jackson’s Garden and out through the campus gates at Commencement, symbolizing their departure. At Colby, new students hike up Mayflower Hill and sign the matriculation book in Miller Library, while during Commencement, seniors process down through the library steps. These picturesque campuses significantly impact student life. Alumni from both often fondly recall their campus’s beauty and atmosphere.

Safety and community engagement are also factors related to location. Both Waterville and Schenectady are small enough that students often get to know residents. Colby has strengthened its ties with Waterville through civic engagement. Colby volunteers in local schools and has invested in the downtown area. Students appreciate some restaurants and shops in the charming downtown. Union’s Schenectady environment has a more urban feel, allowing students to easily walk to coffee shops, eateries, and a historic theater district. However, this environment requires typical awareness associated with city living. Both campuses have public safety departments and generally report low crime rates. Colby’s relative isolation might create a sense of safety due to its distance from larger urban areas, while Union’s campus is gated and well-lit.

In summary, Colby College offers a quintessential rural New England campus that is expansive, tranquil, and increasingly high-tech. Union College provides a historic yet modern campus within an urban setting, giving students easy access to city resources. Each college has invested significantly in facilities that support advanced teaching and research. Colby features a new AI institute and athletic center, while Union highlights its integrated science and engineering complex and renovated arts spaces. Colby students experience four seasons in Maine with abundant outdoor adventure and a close-knit campus on Mayflower Hill. Students at Union benefit from a defined campus, with unique architectural gems like the Nott Memorial, and the connectivity of being in a city neighborhood, along with proximity to opportunities in New York’s Capital Region. Both campuses receive praise for their beauty: Colby for its classic collegiate look surrounded by nature, and Union for its mix of Victorian Gothic and modern buildings arranged in one of the nation’s first planned campus layouts. Facilities such as libraries, labs, dormitories, and recreational centers are top-notch at both schools, ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive academically and socially.
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‍Conclusion
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‍In comparing Union College and Colby College across academics, admissions, campus life, cost, outcomes, and location, it is clear that both institutions excel as liberal arts colleges, each with its unique strengths. Colby is known for its selectivity, strong focus on liberal arts, global reach in study abroad programs and international student body, and its idyllic Maine campus equipped with cutting-edge facilities and generous need-based aid. Union distinguishes itself by offering engineering and STEM studies alongside liberal arts, moderate admissions selectivity that makes an elite education more accessible, a vibrant social environment that includes Greek life and the Minerva House system, and strong career preparation demonstrated by excellent placement rates and alumni earnings—all within a historic campus in a small city. Neither college is objectively “better”; instead, both provide high-quality education in small classes with strong faculty engagement. The differences outlined allow prospective students to evaluate which school is a better fit for them. Students looking for an intimate New England college experience, with no Greek life and a robust focus on environmental and global initiatives, may prefer Colby College. Students who value a combination of liberal arts and engineering, a bit more demographic diversity, including more socioeconomic diversity due to Union’s merit aid, and a higher percentage of students receiving aid, or who are interested in Division I hockey spirit and Greek options, might find Union College especially appealing. Both colleges produce alumni who are intellectually agile, successful in their fields, and deeply loyal to their alma mater. In summary, Union and Colby represent two models of liberal arts excellence. Neither is necessarily “better” than the other, but each excels in different ways. Understanding the extensive information and qualities discussed above highlights how Union College and Colby College each contribute to American higher education and provide transformative undergraduate experiences.


‍Sources:
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1. Academics & Rankings

• U.S. News & World Report – National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings 2024
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-liberal-arts-colleges
‍Used for: Colby (#25) and Union (#45) rankings, class sizes, student-faculty ratios.
• Union College Academics Overview
https://www.union.edu/academics
‍Used for: ABET-accredited engineering programs, trimester system, undergraduate research stats.
• Colby College Academics Overview
https://www.colby.edu/academics/
‍Used for: 46 majors, 37 minors, Jan Plan, DavisConnects, AI institute.

2. Admissions & Student Profile

• College Kickstart – Class of 2029 Admission Results
https://www.collegekickstart.com/blog/item/class-of-2029-admission-results
‍Used for: Colby’s 8% acceptance rate, Union’s 44% rate, SAT/ACT ranges, and yield rates.
• Union College Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.union.edu/offices/institutional-research/common-data-set
‍Used for: SAT/ACT medians, student demographics, enrollment numbers.
• Colby College Common Data Set (2023–24)
https://www.colby.edu/offices/institutional-research/common-data-set/
‍Used for: Admit rate, test scores, diversity stats, first-gen student percentage.
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3. Cost & Financial Aid

• Union College Tuition & Financial Aid
https://www.union.edu/admissions/financial-aid
‍Used for: Merit scholarships (up to $46K), average need-based aid, net price.
• Colby College Financial Aid Overview
https://www.colby.edu/financialaid/
‍Used for: Need-blind admissions, 100% need met, no merit aid, average aid package ($77K), Colby Commitment.

4. Post-Graduation Outcomes

• Colby College Career Outcomes – Class of 2024
https://www.colby.edu/career-center/post-graduate-outcomes/
‍Used for: 98% employed or in grad school within 1 year, top employers, law/med school acceptance rates.
• Union College Career Outcomes – Class of 2022
https://www.union.edu/career-center/post-grad-outcomes
‍Used for: 92% placement rate, top employers, graduate school destinations, starting/mid-career salaries.
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5. Campus Life & Student Experience

• Union College Student Life Overview
https://www.union.edu/student-life
‍Used for: Minerva Houses, Greek life, 130+ clubs, Division I hockey, retention rate (~89%).
• Colby College Student Life Overview
https://www.colby.edu/student-life/
‍Used for: No Greek life, 125+ clubs, NESCAC athletics, Jan Plan, 94% retention rate.