I don’t think class time is overwhelming….its really reasonable and manageable. plus, when classes are stimulating, interesting and applicable, they aren’t a drag but a pleasure!
As for the main reason: I don’think I can answer that, each person comes with their own goals. Both of the aspects you mentioned are big parts of the year. BUT the goal is for sure not to only gain lots of knowledge and just cover ground and have the girls be constantly studying and studying. Self development is a major part of the experience, but again, its how much you put into that, how invested you are in your own growth that makes the difference. No one can “make” you become something; they can guide you, offer you tools that will help your process, but the recognition, awareness, and eventual paradigm shift is internal. there is a tremendous focus on self development and growth as an individual. each person’s experience is different.
regarding text:
in most classes, that wont be a problem. there is one very textual meforshim class, but you shouldn’t have to worry about that–they will work with you and help, it certainly shouldn’t be a reason to not apply. if you are interested in the general idea/program, dont worry about the textual level. most people are fine. and if you’ve been in a mainstream bais yaakov school, you should be prepared just fine.
as for “new york” style: each year has a different flavor, but I’ve seen many years of Me’ohr, and I’ve never felt that it was overwhelmingly new yorkish. the staff AND the girls, largely, are very warm, friendly, accepting people. like any school, its a mixed bag, but meohr is a very diverse place; i think when i was there, there were 85 girls from 40 different schools! so there is certainly not one group that is more dominant and takes over. each year, im always blown away from the girls: they are solid, strong, vivacious and inspired people. they are warm, interested in growth, have tremendous depth and substance. its amazing to see how girls come in, and further develop over the year into very very special people. i’ve always said that in seminary, the learning experience is really divided 50-50: u learn as much from the dorms and the girls as you do from the teachers. being surrounded by good people is a HUGE part of the year!
if you have any other qs, ask away.