Can someone please tell me what the difference between columbia college and Barnard College is?

Someone in my grade who is really isn't that smart got into Barnard early decision, and she's been joining groups on Facebook clike Columbia class of 2012, future columbia graduates, even "ivy league" groups. and I got deferred by Columbia even though i have above a 4.0 gpa and i'm a national merit scholar and i'm in loads of extracurricular activities. Is there really a distinction between Columbia and Barnard students, and is Barnard easier to get into? What really is the difference between attending either school?

Can someone please tell me what the difference between columbia college and Barnard College is?
Barnard College is an all women's private liberal arts college. Barnard is affiliated with Columbia and shares joint resources with Columbia, but operates independently.





The following comes from Barnard's website regarding its relationship with Columbia:


The Barnard-Columbia Connection





Q: What is the relationship between Barnard College and Columbia University? Can I take classes at Columbia?


A: Barnard College is an independent affiliate of Columbia University. Barnard students are integral members of the Columbia University community, and students on both campuses may cross-register for classes and participate in joint activities, including varsity athletics, outside the classroom.





Barnard's admissions process seems simliar to Columbias admissions process. Both require SAT scores and look at your GPA and admissions interview. You sound as if you fit the profile of many other students who have probably applied to Columbia.





The admissions process at any college can be tricky, top schools are used to getting top notch students, normally some things can help you distiguish yourself from other students.





You could try upping your SAT or ACT score and reapplying or work on your admissions interview. Also knowing alumni also can help you get into the school.





The other alternative is to apply to Barnard and take advantage of the fact you can take classes at Columbia while being enrolled at Barnard and transfer later to Columbia full time.