Bates is a wonderful school, but it isn't a cakewalk. It is a work hard / party hard school. Don't go into it thinking that it will be easy because you went to a great high school and had a lot of AP credits, because you can't succeed if you slack off. I would reccomend this college to serious students who like to have fun and like to get involved with the community. The students and the community they form at Bates is one of its strongest points. Bates is a great place to go if you are planning on continuing your education, but if you are planning to stop at a Bachelor's degree you might be disappointed in what you are prepared for. It can be great fun, but also stressful.