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Campus-Spotlights
Wondering where to apply? Check out some of our favorite options below!
Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is an independent research university that values thinking “beyond the possible.”
CWRU was founded in 1826 and is located in Cleveland, Ohio. More specifically, the college campus is located just minutes away from exciting downtown Cleveland on an 185-acre area of land called “Cleveland’s University Circle.” Additionally, CWRU has its own 389 acre farm that is located in Hunting Valley, Ohio!
The college is made up of the Case School of Engineering, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, the School of Dental Medicine, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Law, the School of Medicine, and the Weatherhead School of Management.
In 2015, as their website indicates, CWRU had enrolled 5,121 undergraduate students and 6,219 graduate and professional students.
The culture of the university is intense and exciting:
“In research labs and lecture halls, we spend each and every day asking—and discovering—how to solve the biggest issues of today and tomorrow. From stopping cancer in its tracks to reversing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, from preventing school violence to understanding how businesses work, groundbreaking research takes place daily on our campus.” – The CWRU Official Website
A wonderful feature of CWRU is the high-quality and diverse list of majors it offers to its students. With about 95 undergraduate degree options, 135 graduate and professional options, and about 140 dual-degree programs available, just about every student can find their dream major at CWRU!
Moreover, CWRU has over 100 research centers and institutions that students can take advantage of. Being that research is such a large part of CWRU culture, all students are allowed to begin research projects as early as their first enrolled year. The college even has their SOURCE (Support of Undergraduate Research & Creative Endeavors) organization that helps assist students with their important and valued research projects.
The CWRU mascot is the Spartans and sports are an important part of campus life as well! The university believes in a healthy mind and body and, therefore, offers over 50 sports to students. According to the official website, about half of enrolled students take part in some kind of campus athletics.
As if all of that wasn’t enough, CWRU also has over 500 various and stimulating student organizations to choose from!
CWRU students can decide to live on or off-campus and have several housing options available to them. Between all of the lively academic, athletic, and social activities on-campus, CWRU housing is a great place for students to thrive!
And being only five minutes away from downtown Cleveland, with all of its museums, restaurants, and culture, is another incredible benefit to calling CWRU home!
If you are a student looking for an intense yet fun university culture, who thrives on pushing beyond limitations and values being on the cutting edge of research, then Case Western Reserve University may be perfect for you!
CWRU was founded in 1826 and is located in Cleveland, Ohio. More specifically, the college campus is located just minutes away from exciting downtown Cleveland on an 185-acre area of land called “Cleveland’s University Circle.” Additionally, CWRU has its own 389 acre farm that is located in Hunting Valley, Ohio!
The college is made up of the Case School of Engineering, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, the School of Dental Medicine, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Law, the School of Medicine, and the Weatherhead School of Management.
In 2015, as their website indicates, CWRU had enrolled 5,121 undergraduate students and 6,219 graduate and professional students.
The culture of the university is intense and exciting:
“In research labs and lecture halls, we spend each and every day asking—and discovering—how to solve the biggest issues of today and tomorrow. From stopping cancer in its tracks to reversing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, from preventing school violence to understanding how businesses work, groundbreaking research takes place daily on our campus.” – The CWRU Official Website
A wonderful feature of CWRU is the high-quality and diverse list of majors it offers to its students. With about 95 undergraduate degree options, 135 graduate and professional options, and about 140 dual-degree programs available, just about every student can find their dream major at CWRU!
Moreover, CWRU has over 100 research centers and institutions that students can take advantage of. Being that research is such a large part of CWRU culture, all students are allowed to begin research projects as early as their first enrolled year. The college even has their SOURCE (Support of Undergraduate Research & Creative Endeavors) organization that helps assist students with their important and valued research projects.
The CWRU mascot is the Spartans and sports are an important part of campus life as well! The university believes in a healthy mind and body and, therefore, offers over 50 sports to students. According to the official website, about half of enrolled students take part in some kind of campus athletics.
As if all of that wasn’t enough, CWRU also has over 500 various and stimulating student organizations to choose from!
CWRU students can decide to live on or off-campus and have several housing options available to them. Between all of the lively academic, athletic, and social activities on-campus, CWRU housing is a great place for students to thrive!
And being only five minutes away from downtown Cleveland, with all of its museums, restaurants, and culture, is another incredible benefit to calling CWRU home!
If you are a student looking for an intense yet fun university culture, who thrives on pushing beyond limitations and values being on the cutting edge of research, then Case Western Reserve University may be perfect for you!
St. Lawrence University
St. Lawrence University is a private liberal arts college. The beautiful campus consists of 94 buildings spread across 1,000 acres of lush, green land!
According to the official website, St. Lawrence University’s mission is to “provide an inspiring and demanding undergraduate education in the liberal arts to students selected for their seriousness of purpose and intellectual promise.”
The university offers 36 majors and 39 minors to its undergraduate students. St. Lawrence University students can obtain the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Education, and Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Administration.
St. Lawrence University’s colors are Scarlet & Brown and its mascot is the Saints. Athletics is a big part of the university culture! About 94% of students are involved in some kind of athletic activity. The university offers 32 Varsity Teams and over 25 clubs and intermural sports with men’s and women’s hockey competing at the NCAA Division 1 Level.
2,435 undergraduate and 93 graduate students were enrolled at St. Lawrence University in the fall of 2015. And in 2014, 63% of students took part in the university’s 25 off-campus Study Abroad programs located in 19 countries!
The First-Year Program (FYP) offered at St. Lawrence University is an outstanding feature of the college. The FYP creates an exciting first semester curriculum for incoming students that include both academic and residential programs. The focus of the FYP is to help new students acclimate to their new colligate environment by challenging them to think critically and become actively involved in their classroom and domestic experiences!
One of the wonderful things about St. Lawrence is its intimate educational environment. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1 and an average class size of 16, St. Lawrence creates an inviting and inclusive atmosphere for its students.
Furthermore, with over 100 student clubs and organizations for students to join and over 99% of students living on campus, student engagement is high at St. Lawrence University!
Students who decide to live on campus can choose between the 16 residential halls and 6 Greek Chapters available to them! The residential facilities vary from more traditional styled dorms to theme cottages and more.
The theme cottages at St. Lawrence University are so much fun! Each cottage is uniquely designed for a specific group of students. For example, the Artists’ Guild Cottage promotes art appreciation and serves as a workspace where students can work with local and professional artists. The cottage also hosts the Festival of the Arts, poetry slams, and foreign film festivals!
If you are looking for an inclusive and intimate yet challenging collegiate environment where critical thinking and active participation are fundamental values, then St. Lawrence University may be perfect for you!
For more information: http://www.stlawu.edu/
According to the official website, St. Lawrence University’s mission is to “provide an inspiring and demanding undergraduate education in the liberal arts to students selected for their seriousness of purpose and intellectual promise.”
The university offers 36 majors and 39 minors to its undergraduate students. St. Lawrence University students can obtain the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Education, and Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Administration.
St. Lawrence University’s colors are Scarlet & Brown and its mascot is the Saints. Athletics is a big part of the university culture! About 94% of students are involved in some kind of athletic activity. The university offers 32 Varsity Teams and over 25 clubs and intermural sports with men’s and women’s hockey competing at the NCAA Division 1 Level.
2,435 undergraduate and 93 graduate students were enrolled at St. Lawrence University in the fall of 2015. And in 2014, 63% of students took part in the university’s 25 off-campus Study Abroad programs located in 19 countries!
The First-Year Program (FYP) offered at St. Lawrence University is an outstanding feature of the college. The FYP creates an exciting first semester curriculum for incoming students that include both academic and residential programs. The focus of the FYP is to help new students acclimate to their new colligate environment by challenging them to think critically and become actively involved in their classroom and domestic experiences!
One of the wonderful things about St. Lawrence is its intimate educational environment. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1 and an average class size of 16, St. Lawrence creates an inviting and inclusive atmosphere for its students.
Furthermore, with over 100 student clubs and organizations for students to join and over 99% of students living on campus, student engagement is high at St. Lawrence University!
Students who decide to live on campus can choose between the 16 residential halls and 6 Greek Chapters available to them! The residential facilities vary from more traditional styled dorms to theme cottages and more.
The theme cottages at St. Lawrence University are so much fun! Each cottage is uniquely designed for a specific group of students. For example, the Artists’ Guild Cottage promotes art appreciation and serves as a workspace where students can work with local and professional artists. The cottage also hosts the Festival of the Arts, poetry slams, and foreign film festivals!
If you are looking for an inclusive and intimate yet challenging collegiate environment where critical thinking and active participation are fundamental values, then St. Lawrence University may be perfect for you!
For more information: http://www.stlawu.edu/
Saint Michael’s College in VT
Saint Michael’s College is a Roman Catholic university, founded in 1904 by the Society of Saint Edmund on the “principles of education, justice, and service to the poor.”
Located in Burlington, Vermont, the 440-acre campus is incredibly picturesque. The beautiful buildings and striking landscapes of the campus are located 30 minutes from ski slopes, 2 hours Montreal, and 3 hours from Boston.
According to their official website, Saint Michael’s Mission Statement is as follows:
“It is the mission of Saint Michael’s College to contribute through higher education to the enhancement of the human person and to the advancement of human culture in the light of the Catholic faith.”
Currently, Saint Michael’s has about 2,000 undergraduate and 370 graduate students enrolled.
With an average class size of only 19 students and a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, the college works to maintain an intimate learning environment. This kind of atmosphere is perfect for the proactive student, looking to make and sustain great relationships with peers and instructors.
In addition to the 36 majors and 36 minors available to students, Saint Michael’s also offers an Honors Program, independent research programs, and many internship opportunities.
One very important and prevalent aspect of Saint Michael’s College is their dedication to their non-discrimination policy. As the official website states, the college prides itself on valuing equal opportunity for all people and does not discriminate on the bases of “race, color, gender, age, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or physical characteristics.”
About 98% of students take advantage of on-campus housing, which consists of over a dozen residential halls and student apartment buildings. Moreover, campus housing is guaranteed to all students throughout the course of their college experience at Saint Michael’s!
Getting involved with the booming school spirit is a breeze at Saint Michael’s! With over 40 student organizations, 28 intramural sports teams, and 21 varsity teams competing in NCAA Division II, every student will be pleased.
Furthermore, the college’s Academic Centers are a great resource for the hands-on student! These centers, such as the Multicultural Center, the Edmundite Center for Peace and Justice, and the Center for Women and Gender, were created in order to “reflect [Saint Michael’s] commitment to cultivate a vibrant intellectual community and to provide resources for studying issues that are relevant to our institutional mission and history.”
Some other fun facts about Saint Michael’s are that about 75% of students choose to take part in some kind of service or volunteer work while in attendance, the Edmundite Campus Ministry is readily available and welcoming to all students and, as a “Green Campus,” the college takes its desire to be ecologically responsible very seriously!
If you are a motivated and enthusiastic student, looking for an intimate, hands-on, service-focused educational experience, founded on the values of the Catholic faith, Saint Michael’s College may be perfect for you!
For more information: https://www.smcvt.edu/
Located in Burlington, Vermont, the 440-acre campus is incredibly picturesque. The beautiful buildings and striking landscapes of the campus are located 30 minutes from ski slopes, 2 hours Montreal, and 3 hours from Boston.
According to their official website, Saint Michael’s Mission Statement is as follows:
“It is the mission of Saint Michael’s College to contribute through higher education to the enhancement of the human person and to the advancement of human culture in the light of the Catholic faith.”
Currently, Saint Michael’s has about 2,000 undergraduate and 370 graduate students enrolled.
With an average class size of only 19 students and a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, the college works to maintain an intimate learning environment. This kind of atmosphere is perfect for the proactive student, looking to make and sustain great relationships with peers and instructors.
In addition to the 36 majors and 36 minors available to students, Saint Michael’s also offers an Honors Program, independent research programs, and many internship opportunities.
One very important and prevalent aspect of Saint Michael’s College is their dedication to their non-discrimination policy. As the official website states, the college prides itself on valuing equal opportunity for all people and does not discriminate on the bases of “race, color, gender, age, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or physical characteristics.”
About 98% of students take advantage of on-campus housing, which consists of over a dozen residential halls and student apartment buildings. Moreover, campus housing is guaranteed to all students throughout the course of their college experience at Saint Michael’s!
Getting involved with the booming school spirit is a breeze at Saint Michael’s! With over 40 student organizations, 28 intramural sports teams, and 21 varsity teams competing in NCAA Division II, every student will be pleased.
Furthermore, the college’s Academic Centers are a great resource for the hands-on student! These centers, such as the Multicultural Center, the Edmundite Center for Peace and Justice, and the Center for Women and Gender, were created in order to “reflect [Saint Michael’s] commitment to cultivate a vibrant intellectual community and to provide resources for studying issues that are relevant to our institutional mission and history.”
Some other fun facts about Saint Michael’s are that about 75% of students choose to take part in some kind of service or volunteer work while in attendance, the Edmundite Campus Ministry is readily available and welcoming to all students and, as a “Green Campus,” the college takes its desire to be ecologically responsible very seriously!
If you are a motivated and enthusiastic student, looking for an intimate, hands-on, service-focused educational experience, founded on the values of the Catholic faith, Saint Michael’s College may be perfect for you!
For more information: https://www.smcvt.edu/
Elon University
Elon University was founded in 1889 in Elon, North Carolina. The university’s gorgeous campus is spread across 636 acres of land and is designated as a botanical garden.
At Elon, there is a principled focus on the importance of respecting each other’s differences and working together for the greater common good. As the official Elon website states, “Elon students are ambitious, curious and compassionate, inspired to be big-thinkers and creative problem-solvers.”
Elon University prides itself on a strong commitment to its “founders’ vision of an academic community that transforms mind, body, and spirit and encourages freedom of thought and liberty of conscience.”
One fundamental goal of Elon University is to encourage and inspire students through active student engagement. In addition to valuing hands-on learning and having over 200 organizations available for students to get involved with, the university also values their ability to create a strong community! – Elon students are encouraged to develop strong and lasting relationships with their peers as well as facility and staff.
During the 2015-2016 academic year, 5,903 undergraduate students and 728 graduate students were enrolled at Elon University.
According to Elon.edu, in 2016, Elon University was recognized for excellence “in all eight of the U.S. News & World Report lists of high-impact academic programs that lead to student success in college.”
Elon provides students with an exciting, challenging, and interactive curriculum, aimed at helping prepare them to become “global citizens and informed leaders.” Additionally, the university has an excellent study abroad program that approximately 72% of undergraduate students decide to take advantage of!
Elon offers a wide range of over 60 majors to its undergraduate students. The university is compiled of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, the School of Communications, the School of Education, the School of Law, and the School of Health Sciences.
The Student Professional Development Center is another exciting component of Elon University. Counselors work with students and help them to build strong development plans, resumes, and networking skills.
Furthermore, Elon is bursting with school spirit! The university colors are Maroon and Gold and their mascot is The Phoenix! Elon offers 18 intramural sports and 21 club sports, as well as 17 intercollegiate men’s and women’s sports in NCAA Division 1 (FCS football)!
Campus living is an amazing Elon university feature! Elon’s residential campus offers different “neighborhoods” to its students. And each neighborhood is uniquely designed for the students who live there!
For example, students living in the Historic Neighborhood live at the core of the campus and are always first-year students. The theme of this neighborhood is “Elon traditions and history” and, in addition to living together, most students will also be enrolled in first year English or Math Core classes together, making for a close knit group of peers.
If you are looking for a stimulating collegiate environment where students are appreciated for their individuality, hands-on learning is key, and working closely with your peers to make the world a better place is an essential value, Elon may be a perfect fit for you!
For more information: http://www.elon.edu/home/
At Elon, there is a principled focus on the importance of respecting each other’s differences and working together for the greater common good. As the official Elon website states, “Elon students are ambitious, curious and compassionate, inspired to be big-thinkers and creative problem-solvers.”
Elon University prides itself on a strong commitment to its “founders’ vision of an academic community that transforms mind, body, and spirit and encourages freedom of thought and liberty of conscience.”
One fundamental goal of Elon University is to encourage and inspire students through active student engagement. In addition to valuing hands-on learning and having over 200 organizations available for students to get involved with, the university also values their ability to create a strong community! – Elon students are encouraged to develop strong and lasting relationships with their peers as well as facility and staff.
During the 2015-2016 academic year, 5,903 undergraduate students and 728 graduate students were enrolled at Elon University.
According to Elon.edu, in 2016, Elon University was recognized for excellence “in all eight of the U.S. News & World Report lists of high-impact academic programs that lead to student success in college.”
Elon provides students with an exciting, challenging, and interactive curriculum, aimed at helping prepare them to become “global citizens and informed leaders.” Additionally, the university has an excellent study abroad program that approximately 72% of undergraduate students decide to take advantage of!
Elon offers a wide range of over 60 majors to its undergraduate students. The university is compiled of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business, the School of Communications, the School of Education, the School of Law, and the School of Health Sciences.
The Student Professional Development Center is another exciting component of Elon University. Counselors work with students and help them to build strong development plans, resumes, and networking skills.
Furthermore, Elon is bursting with school spirit! The university colors are Maroon and Gold and their mascot is The Phoenix! Elon offers 18 intramural sports and 21 club sports, as well as 17 intercollegiate men’s and women’s sports in NCAA Division 1 (FCS football)!
Campus living is an amazing Elon university feature! Elon’s residential campus offers different “neighborhoods” to its students. And each neighborhood is uniquely designed for the students who live there!
For example, students living in the Historic Neighborhood live at the core of the campus and are always first-year students. The theme of this neighborhood is “Elon traditions and history” and, in addition to living together, most students will also be enrolled in first year English or Math Core classes together, making for a close knit group of peers.
If you are looking for a stimulating collegiate environment where students are appreciated for their individuality, hands-on learning is key, and working closely with your peers to make the world a better place is an essential value, Elon may be a perfect fit for you!
For more information: http://www.elon.edu/home/
Gustavus Adolphus College
Gustavus Adolphus College was founded in 1862 in St. Peter, Minnesota. Located in the majestic Minnesota River Valley, the college’s beautiful 340-acre campus is relatively secluded. In addition to being a private, coeducational institution, the college is also grounded in its Lutheran and Swedish heritages and is united with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
We love Gustavus Adolphus College because it prides itself on being guided by the five core values of excellence, community, justice, service, and faith. As stated on their official website, an important part of Gustavus Adolphus College’s Mission Statement is as follows:
“…The College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. It is a community where a mature understanding of the Christian faith and lives of service are nurtured and students are encouraged to work toward a just and peaceful world.”
“The purpose of a Gustavus education is to help its students attain their full potential as persons, to develop in them a capacity and passion for lifelong learning, and to prepare them for fulfilling lives of leadership and service in society…”
As a liberal arts institution, Gustavus Adolphus College offers its students Bachelor of Arts degrees. With 72 diverse majors from 24 academic departments to choose from, students considering Gustavus Adolphus College have many opinions available to them!
The program that Gustavus Adolphus College is, arguably, best known for, is the Three Crowns Curriculum. Like most college curriculums, the Three Crowns Curriculum focuses on General Education, the student’s Major, and the student’s Electives. However, what makes this program different is the emphasis on truly allowing students to challenge themselves intellectually and otherwise by actively taking part in “discussion-oriented courses.” In groups, students participate in these special courses by reflecting on life, society, their individuality, and more!
According to the Gustavus Adolphus College official website, “the Three Crowns Curriculum makes the idea of connection paramount. We emphasize connections between disciplines; between ideas and values; between past and present; between learning and life; between students and faculty; and between students themselves.”
Keeping with the university’s value of the importance of connection and inclusion, the average class size is about 17 students and the student to faculty ratio is 11:1. – These smaller class sizes create a wonderful learning atmosphere for the proactive student, looking to make lasting relationships with peers and educators.
Gustavus Adolphus College also has amazing study abroad, Fine Arts, and computer/networking programs, as well as over 30 intramural activities, 9 club sports, and 12 women’s and 11 men’s intercollegiate sports.
As far as on campus living goes, over 2,200 students decide to take advantage of the college’s residential accommodations, which include 14 traditional residence halls and apartment/town home neighborhoods and 5 individual homes!
If you are looking for a challenging yet intimate educational experience, rooted in the principles of leadership, faith, and community, Gustavus Adolphus College may be perfect for you!
For more information: https://gustavus.edu/about/
We love Gustavus Adolphus College because it prides itself on being guided by the five core values of excellence, community, justice, service, and faith. As stated on their official website, an important part of Gustavus Adolphus College’s Mission Statement is as follows:
“…The College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. It is a community where a mature understanding of the Christian faith and lives of service are nurtured and students are encouraged to work toward a just and peaceful world.”
“The purpose of a Gustavus education is to help its students attain their full potential as persons, to develop in them a capacity and passion for lifelong learning, and to prepare them for fulfilling lives of leadership and service in society…”
As a liberal arts institution, Gustavus Adolphus College offers its students Bachelor of Arts degrees. With 72 diverse majors from 24 academic departments to choose from, students considering Gustavus Adolphus College have many opinions available to them!
The program that Gustavus Adolphus College is, arguably, best known for, is the Three Crowns Curriculum. Like most college curriculums, the Three Crowns Curriculum focuses on General Education, the student’s Major, and the student’s Electives. However, what makes this program different is the emphasis on truly allowing students to challenge themselves intellectually and otherwise by actively taking part in “discussion-oriented courses.” In groups, students participate in these special courses by reflecting on life, society, their individuality, and more!
According to the Gustavus Adolphus College official website, “the Three Crowns Curriculum makes the idea of connection paramount. We emphasize connections between disciplines; between ideas and values; between past and present; between learning and life; between students and faculty; and between students themselves.”
Keeping with the university’s value of the importance of connection and inclusion, the average class size is about 17 students and the student to faculty ratio is 11:1. – These smaller class sizes create a wonderful learning atmosphere for the proactive student, looking to make lasting relationships with peers and educators.
Gustavus Adolphus College also has amazing study abroad, Fine Arts, and computer/networking programs, as well as over 30 intramural activities, 9 club sports, and 12 women’s and 11 men’s intercollegiate sports.
As far as on campus living goes, over 2,200 students decide to take advantage of the college’s residential accommodations, which include 14 traditional residence halls and apartment/town home neighborhoods and 5 individual homes!
If you are looking for a challenging yet intimate educational experience, rooted in the principles of leadership, faith, and community, Gustavus Adolphus College may be perfect for you!
For more information: https://gustavus.edu/about/
Bennington College
Bennington College is located in the gorgeous and rural town of Bennington, Vermont. The university was established in 1932 and focuses on “faith in the talent, imagination, and responsibility of the individual” by encouraging students to be active learners who take hold of their own intellectual development.
Bennington College prides itself on being a haven for artists, scholars, scientists, and writers who want to use their unique skills and talents to make the world a better place.
The stunning and picturesque campus is spread across 440 acres of land! The central campus takes up only 10 acres of the property. The remaining acres include wooded land, farmland, and wetlands. There are 80 species of trees on the campus and 121 different species of birds. — Basically, this campus is a nature lover’s dream!
The campus also offers multiple dining, recreation, and fitness areas such as tennis and basketball courts and hiking trails.
Being that Bennington College is a small university, with only 704 enrolled undergraduate students, the average class size is 11 students and the student to faculty ratio is 10:1; further upholding their values of intimate and proactive student learning.
When it comes to choosing a “major,” there are 48 offered areas of study. However, one of the things that makes Bennington College so distinctively unconventional is that students take part in the “Plan Process” wherein they work closely with faculty to develop their own, unique programs of study. We love that Bennington College students can earn the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Master of Fine Arts in Dance, Master of Fine Arts in Music, Master of Fine Arts in Writing and Literature, andPost baccalaureate Certificate of Completion in Premedical and Allied Health Sciences.
One of the most exciting things about Bennington College is their Field Work Term! Each academic year, for their winter term, students participate in seven-weeks of off-campus course work. The goal of this is to allow students the opportunity to actively participate in the community and truly experience their chosen field of study. Some examples of FWT work are jobs, internships, medical research, and social work. The time that students get to participate in FWT allows them to network and develop relationships, build a resume, acquire strong references, build their confidence, and more!
Bennington also offers students the chance to participate in the betterment of the world and in conversations about global issues through study abroad programs and The Elizabeth Coleman Center for the Advancement of Public Action.
On-campus living is also one of Bennington College’s exceptional features! Instead of traditional dorms, students live in houses. In most cases, 30-45 co-ed students live together in a home which includes a kitchen and comfortable common areas.
In addition to being involved in their housing communities, students are encouraged to join in the fun of the many various student clubs and organizations available to them!
Bennington College is a wonderfully exciting university for the proactive student, looking to enthusiastically participate in their entire educational experience and connect their passions to the world at large!
For more information: http://www.bennington.edu/
Bennington College prides itself on being a haven for artists, scholars, scientists, and writers who want to use their unique skills and talents to make the world a better place.
The stunning and picturesque campus is spread across 440 acres of land! The central campus takes up only 10 acres of the property. The remaining acres include wooded land, farmland, and wetlands. There are 80 species of trees on the campus and 121 different species of birds. — Basically, this campus is a nature lover’s dream!
The campus also offers multiple dining, recreation, and fitness areas such as tennis and basketball courts and hiking trails.
Being that Bennington College is a small university, with only 704 enrolled undergraduate students, the average class size is 11 students and the student to faculty ratio is 10:1; further upholding their values of intimate and proactive student learning.
When it comes to choosing a “major,” there are 48 offered areas of study. However, one of the things that makes Bennington College so distinctively unconventional is that students take part in the “Plan Process” wherein they work closely with faculty to develop their own, unique programs of study. We love that Bennington College students can earn the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Master of Fine Arts in Dance, Master of Fine Arts in Music, Master of Fine Arts in Writing and Literature, andPost baccalaureate Certificate of Completion in Premedical and Allied Health Sciences.
One of the most exciting things about Bennington College is their Field Work Term! Each academic year, for their winter term, students participate in seven-weeks of off-campus course work. The goal of this is to allow students the opportunity to actively participate in the community and truly experience their chosen field of study. Some examples of FWT work are jobs, internships, medical research, and social work. The time that students get to participate in FWT allows them to network and develop relationships, build a resume, acquire strong references, build their confidence, and more!
Bennington also offers students the chance to participate in the betterment of the world and in conversations about global issues through study abroad programs and The Elizabeth Coleman Center for the Advancement of Public Action.
On-campus living is also one of Bennington College’s exceptional features! Instead of traditional dorms, students live in houses. In most cases, 30-45 co-ed students live together in a home which includes a kitchen and comfortable common areas.
In addition to being involved in their housing communities, students are encouraged to join in the fun of the many various student clubs and organizations available to them!
Bennington College is a wonderfully exciting university for the proactive student, looking to enthusiastically participate in their entire educational experience and connect their passions to the world at large!
For more information: http://www.bennington.edu/
Sterling College
“Working Hands, Working Minds.” This is the motto at Sterling College, an incredibly unique and intimate school of 125 students located in rural Craftsbury Common, Vermont, making it one of our absolute favorites. The curriculum is dedicated solely to the advancement of Environmental Stewardship, which refers to responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices. The school was founded in 1958 as a college prep school for boys. When the school faced potential closure in the mid 70’s, a small number of faculty came together and created the model of learning that would go on to become Sterling College.
The school has been accredited as a 4-year college since 1997 and is one of only seven federally recognized work colleges in the nation. What’s a work college, you ask? They are distinctive liberal arts colleges that promote the purposeful integration of work, learning, and service.The school offers five majors total:Bachelor of Arts degrees in Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Outdoor Education, Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Food Systems, and a sixth option for students to design their own major. The school also has minors in Sustainable Food Systems, Draft Horse Management (the first of its kind in the nation), Natural History, and Climate Justice.
Students at Sterling get to experience truly hands on learning environment with typically 10 or fewer students per class. While there are more traditional laboratory classes and seminars, many of the classes take place in outdoor teaching facilities which include a managed woodlot, a challenge course, a 30 feet climbing tower, managed gardens, and a working livestock farm with two solar powered barns.Students are given the opportunity to intimately engage with nature and consider humanity’s relationship to the environment. They take on rigorous intellectual and physical challenges as they tackle issues like climate change, agricultural sustainability, food security and social justice.
While a great deal is expected from Sterling students, there is also plenty of room for play and student life in this tight knit community. From yoga to music nights to organized dances, to the Mountain and Trail Running Team (which competes in regional events ranging from 5k trail runs to 50-mile ultra marathons!) students make things happen at this school!
The admissions team accepts 94% of students who apply each year, so students have a high chance of earning a spot in the school and being eligible to receive financial scholarships. Sterling College takes the whole student into account during the application process and welcomes applicants who have not followed a traditional high school path or did not thrive as well as they had hoped to academically. For those students who are deeply passionate about the environment and becoming agents of change for future generations, Sterling College is a wonderful place to become a much-needed environmental steward for our planet.
For more information, visit http://www.sterlingcollege.edu
The school has been accredited as a 4-year college since 1997 and is one of only seven federally recognized work colleges in the nation. What’s a work college, you ask? They are distinctive liberal arts colleges that promote the purposeful integration of work, learning, and service.The school offers five majors total:Bachelor of Arts degrees in Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Outdoor Education, Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Food Systems, and a sixth option for students to design their own major. The school also has minors in Sustainable Food Systems, Draft Horse Management (the first of its kind in the nation), Natural History, and Climate Justice.
Students at Sterling get to experience truly hands on learning environment with typically 10 or fewer students per class. While there are more traditional laboratory classes and seminars, many of the classes take place in outdoor teaching facilities which include a managed woodlot, a challenge course, a 30 feet climbing tower, managed gardens, and a working livestock farm with two solar powered barns.Students are given the opportunity to intimately engage with nature and consider humanity’s relationship to the environment. They take on rigorous intellectual and physical challenges as they tackle issues like climate change, agricultural sustainability, food security and social justice.
While a great deal is expected from Sterling students, there is also plenty of room for play and student life in this tight knit community. From yoga to music nights to organized dances, to the Mountain and Trail Running Team (which competes in regional events ranging from 5k trail runs to 50-mile ultra marathons!) students make things happen at this school!
The admissions team accepts 94% of students who apply each year, so students have a high chance of earning a spot in the school and being eligible to receive financial scholarships. Sterling College takes the whole student into account during the application process and welcomes applicants who have not followed a traditional high school path or did not thrive as well as they had hoped to academically. For those students who are deeply passionate about the environment and becoming agents of change for future generations, Sterling College is a wonderful place to become a much-needed environmental steward for our planet.
For more information, visit http://www.sterlingcollege.edu
Ohio Wesleyan University
Ohio Wesleyan University is a private liberal arts college of approximately 1,700 students located just thirty miles outside of Ohio’s capital city. OWU was founded almost 175 years ago in 1842, welcoming its first freshmen class of 29 male students in 1844. In 1853, the Ohio Wesleyan Female College was founded. In 1877, the two universities merged, and Ohio Wesleyan has been a co-educational university ever since.
With an average faculty to student ratio of 11:1, Ohio Wesleyan students have the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with their caring, highly renowned professors and work closely with their peers. The school offers a total of 87 majors and students may earn a degree in Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor’s of Music. A little over 25% of students graduate with degrees in multiple majors, one of the highest percentages in the country. We love that for high school students who have a 3.0 GPA or higher at the end of their junior year, submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional.
Since the 19th century, Ohio Wesleyan has made connections with several universities internationally, and is one of the most well known universities to recruit and enroll international students, creating a highly diverse student body. So if traveling to other countries is on your college wish list, you’ll have the opportunity to study abroad in both the summer or during the academic year in a wide variety of programs and countries throughout Europe, Africa, South America, Asia, and Australia.
One of Ohio Wesleyan’s most unique elements is an on campus housing option known as Small Living Units, or SLU’s, available to sophomores in good academic standing. The university describes SLUs as “intentional communities” of students who are passionate about a mutual interest, want to explore it more deeply with the people they live with, and desire to educate the campus about it. While living in an SLU requires a significant commitment, it can be a fulfilling experience for those who want to learn what it takes to build a positive community and make an impact on campus. There are currently seven SLUs on campus, and existing Small Living Units must formally propose their house in order to be renewed for the following year.
The university has a wide variety of traditions and activities that make the campus a fun, tight knit community. OWU has 23 varsity sports teams, is a competitive member of the NCAA Division III, and nearly three quarters of its students participate in varsity, intramural, and club sports. OWU has a rich literary history, and some of its oldest student organizations are its literary clubs. The school’s student-run weekly newspaper, The Transcript, and its annual literary publication of student work called The OWL, are two of the oldest college literary publications in the country.
Ohio Wesleyan takes great pride in providing students with a holistic education that educates them on both a personal and academic level. The intimate, inclusive atmosphere of OWU is sure to appeal to many students looking to for a quality college education that prepares them for life far beyond their four years on campus.
With an average faculty to student ratio of 11:1, Ohio Wesleyan students have the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with their caring, highly renowned professors and work closely with their peers. The school offers a total of 87 majors and students may earn a degree in Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor’s of Music. A little over 25% of students graduate with degrees in multiple majors, one of the highest percentages in the country. We love that for high school students who have a 3.0 GPA or higher at the end of their junior year, submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional.
Since the 19th century, Ohio Wesleyan has made connections with several universities internationally, and is one of the most well known universities to recruit and enroll international students, creating a highly diverse student body. So if traveling to other countries is on your college wish list, you’ll have the opportunity to study abroad in both the summer or during the academic year in a wide variety of programs and countries throughout Europe, Africa, South America, Asia, and Australia.
One of Ohio Wesleyan’s most unique elements is an on campus housing option known as Small Living Units, or SLU’s, available to sophomores in good academic standing. The university describes SLUs as “intentional communities” of students who are passionate about a mutual interest, want to explore it more deeply with the people they live with, and desire to educate the campus about it. While living in an SLU requires a significant commitment, it can be a fulfilling experience for those who want to learn what it takes to build a positive community and make an impact on campus. There are currently seven SLUs on campus, and existing Small Living Units must formally propose their house in order to be renewed for the following year.
The university has a wide variety of traditions and activities that make the campus a fun, tight knit community. OWU has 23 varsity sports teams, is a competitive member of the NCAA Division III, and nearly three quarters of its students participate in varsity, intramural, and club sports. OWU has a rich literary history, and some of its oldest student organizations are its literary clubs. The school’s student-run weekly newspaper, The Transcript, and its annual literary publication of student work called The OWL, are two of the oldest college literary publications in the country.
Ohio Wesleyan takes great pride in providing students with a holistic education that educates them on both a personal and academic level. The intimate, inclusive atmosphere of OWU is sure to appeal to many students looking to for a quality college education that prepares them for life far beyond their four years on campus.
Rochester Institute of Technology
RIT is a private university of approximately 14,000 students located in the town of Henrietta in the Rochester, New York metro area. The school was first created when Rochester Athenaeum, a literary society founded in 1829, and Mechanics Institute, a Rochester institute of practical technical training for local residents founded in 1885, merged into Rochester Athenaeum and Mechanics Institute (RAMI). In 1944, the university changed its name to Rochester Institute of Technology.
The school prides itself on offering academic programs that provide students a top-notch education and solid preparation for their future careers. RIT offers more than 200 academics programs in nine distinctive colleges, and favors a more pre-professional curriculum. Students pick one college as their academic “home” and concentrate their studies on their chosen major within this college. The school is best known for its fine arts, computing, engineering, and imaging science programs. RIT is the only school in the nation to offer a B.S./M.S. in imaging science. In addition, several of its fine arts have consistently been ranked in the “Top 10” according to the US News & World Report. RIT is also a member of the Rochester Area College Consortium, allowing students to take classes at other colleges in the Rochester metropolitan area without paying tuition.
RIT has a number of attributes that make it a unique campus. RIT’s co-op program, which began in 1912, is the fourth oldest in the world, and fifth largest in the country. A cooperative education experience, commonly known as a “co-op,” gives students academic credit for structured job experience and experiential learning. Approximately 3,500 RIT students complete a co-op each year at over 2,000 businesses.While participating in a co-op, students do not have to pay tuition to the school but are still considered to be full time students. Co-ops frequently give students a leg up in the job market after they graduate and give them valuable job experience for their potential future careers. RIT is also home to the National Institute of the Deaf, with deaf and hard of hearing students comprising almost 10% of the student population. A fair number of classes are translated into American Sign Language, and the school also has a number of deaf and hard of hearing professors.
RIT’s career focused education, diverse student body, and unique learning opportunities make this a great school that will appeal to students looking for solid preparation in the job market and a well-rounded education that will extend far beyond their four years of college. For more information, check out http://www.rit.edu/emcs/admissions/high-school-students.
The school prides itself on offering academic programs that provide students a top-notch education and solid preparation for their future careers. RIT offers more than 200 academics programs in nine distinctive colleges, and favors a more pre-professional curriculum. Students pick one college as their academic “home” and concentrate their studies on their chosen major within this college. The school is best known for its fine arts, computing, engineering, and imaging science programs. RIT is the only school in the nation to offer a B.S./M.S. in imaging science. In addition, several of its fine arts have consistently been ranked in the “Top 10” according to the US News & World Report. RIT is also a member of the Rochester Area College Consortium, allowing students to take classes at other colleges in the Rochester metropolitan area without paying tuition.
RIT has a number of attributes that make it a unique campus. RIT’s co-op program, which began in 1912, is the fourth oldest in the world, and fifth largest in the country. A cooperative education experience, commonly known as a “co-op,” gives students academic credit for structured job experience and experiential learning. Approximately 3,500 RIT students complete a co-op each year at over 2,000 businesses.While participating in a co-op, students do not have to pay tuition to the school but are still considered to be full time students. Co-ops frequently give students a leg up in the job market after they graduate and give them valuable job experience for their potential future careers. RIT is also home to the National Institute of the Deaf, with deaf and hard of hearing students comprising almost 10% of the student population. A fair number of classes are translated into American Sign Language, and the school also has a number of deaf and hard of hearing professors.
RIT’s career focused education, diverse student body, and unique learning opportunities make this a great school that will appeal to students looking for solid preparation in the job market and a well-rounded education that will extend far beyond their four years of college. For more information, check out http://www.rit.edu/emcs/admissions/high-school-students.
Case Western Reserve University
Case Western is a private research university of approximately 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students located in urban Cleveland, Ohio. The school is one of our favorites here at College Right. It was founded in 1967 when Western Reserve University, known for its strong liberal arts and professional programs, and Case Institute of Technology, a school of science and engineering, were formally merged to create one university. While the two universities had been friendly neighbors for over eighty years, often sharing buildings and professors, it wasn’t until the late 1960’s that the two schools decided to merge to create the strong science and arts college it is today.
Case Western is known for its rigorous academics and expects a great deal from its students. Research is central to a student’s education at Case, and the school consistently ranks in the top twenty research institutions. In 2014, the school received over $300 million to fund an upwards of 1,600 research projects. One of the main reasons we love this university is that its students have the opportunity to create and implement research projects as early as their freshman year-not something you see at a lot of large universities. While CWRU’s undergraduates are well known for having a strong focus in the fields of medicine and engineering, there is far more to the this university than just science and research. With almost 60 undergraduate programs offered through The College of Arts and Sciences and the opportunity to design personalized major, students who are interested in the liberal arts will also find a home at Case Western.
While Case expects a great deal from its students academically, there are also plenty of opportunities to get involved socially on campus. Greek life is a prominent part of Case, and fraternities and sororities are considered some of the most popular campus groups. Over 30% of students take part in Greek life, and these organizations place a high emphasis on social and community service events as opposed the traditional parties often associated with fraternities and sororities. For those interested in participating in athletics, the university offers ten men’s sports and nine women’s sports, as well as a fair amount of intramural sports. In addition, the school has over 500 organizations and clubs to choose from, guaranteeing every student a chance to connect with other like-minded people on campus.
Case has a diverse student body, with a fairly even male to female ratio and students from over 90 countries. One very notable aspect of the campus is its ranking as one of the top 25 LBGTQ friendly schools according to Campus Pride, a national organization that aims to make universities more inclusive for gay, lesbian, bi and transgender individuals. Whatever walk of life or background students come from, those who attend Case can take pride in knowing they are a part of a campus that promotes diversity and strives to make all its student feel welcome, safe, and included. For more information, visit www.admission.case.edu.
Case Western is known for its rigorous academics and expects a great deal from its students. Research is central to a student’s education at Case, and the school consistently ranks in the top twenty research institutions. In 2014, the school received over $300 million to fund an upwards of 1,600 research projects. One of the main reasons we love this university is that its students have the opportunity to create and implement research projects as early as their freshman year-not something you see at a lot of large universities. While CWRU’s undergraduates are well known for having a strong focus in the fields of medicine and engineering, there is far more to the this university than just science and research. With almost 60 undergraduate programs offered through The College of Arts and Sciences and the opportunity to design personalized major, students who are interested in the liberal arts will also find a home at Case Western.
While Case expects a great deal from its students academically, there are also plenty of opportunities to get involved socially on campus. Greek life is a prominent part of Case, and fraternities and sororities are considered some of the most popular campus groups. Over 30% of students take part in Greek life, and these organizations place a high emphasis on social and community service events as opposed the traditional parties often associated with fraternities and sororities. For those interested in participating in athletics, the university offers ten men’s sports and nine women’s sports, as well as a fair amount of intramural sports. In addition, the school has over 500 organizations and clubs to choose from, guaranteeing every student a chance to connect with other like-minded people on campus.
Case has a diverse student body, with a fairly even male to female ratio and students from over 90 countries. One very notable aspect of the campus is its ranking as one of the top 25 LBGTQ friendly schools according to Campus Pride, a national organization that aims to make universities more inclusive for gay, lesbian, bi and transgender individuals. Whatever walk of life or background students come from, those who attend Case can take pride in knowing they are a part of a campus that promotes diversity and strives to make all its student feel welcome, safe, and included. For more information, visit www.admission.case.edu.
Marlboro College
Marlboro College is a gem of a school-a private liberal arts college of 300 students located in rural Marlboro, Vermont. The college was established in 1946 by Walter Hendricks, who set out to create a school in which students played an active role in shaping their academic and community atmosphere. The school operates on these principles to this day and requires its students to be active and engaged participants in their education.
With just 47 faculty members and a 6:1 faculty to student ratio, Marlboro offers a very intimate academic and social atmosphere. While many schools require students to follow a set curriculum of general education courses, Marlboro allows students to design a personal course of study based on their individual interests and passions. Marlboro offers classes in 36 subjects in four main categories: Arts, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. Every Marlboro student is required to complete a Plan of Concentration which they begin working on at the beginning of junior year. The “Plan,” as it is more commonly known, is an individually designed course of study that requires faculty approval and often covers a variety of subjects. This unique academic experience allows students to be actively engaged in their educational journey every step of the way.
One of the most notable aspects of student life is the Town Meeting, a monthly assembly that is the center of community life and a place to discuss a wide range of college issues. All students, faculty, and staff members are allowed to participate and have an equal vote. Members of the Marlboro community have a strong influence in administrative decisions, allowing students to have an important say in their college government. In the past several years the school has made a significant effort to expand the art and music departments, adding a new performing arts center with a 125-seat auditorium, an electronic music lab, practice rooms with baby grand pianos and a 5,000 square foot dance studio. Although the campus does not have any official sports teams, students have the opportunity to participate in many outdoor activities through the Outdoor and Recreation Program. Marlboro offers a variety of seasonal outdoor activities including kayaking, whitewater outings, caving, climbing, and backpacking, as well as a fair number of organized sports.
One of the most unique aspects of Marlboro’s admissions process is that it does not require SAT/ ACT scores or take into account a student’s GPA. While students can submit these, it is not a requirement for the application process. Marlboro is most interested in admitting well-rounded students who are self-motivated, have a deep passion for learning, and a desire to be active contributors on campus. The admissions team accepts 80% of students who apply each year, so students have a high chance of earning a spot in the school and being eligible to receive financial scholarships offered by the school. While a small, rural college is not for everyone, Marlboro will appeal to students who are looking for a unique educational experience that encourages them to be independent, self-sufficient, and follow a non-traditional course of study.
With just 47 faculty members and a 6:1 faculty to student ratio, Marlboro offers a very intimate academic and social atmosphere. While many schools require students to follow a set curriculum of general education courses, Marlboro allows students to design a personal course of study based on their individual interests and passions. Marlboro offers classes in 36 subjects in four main categories: Arts, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. Every Marlboro student is required to complete a Plan of Concentration which they begin working on at the beginning of junior year. The “Plan,” as it is more commonly known, is an individually designed course of study that requires faculty approval and often covers a variety of subjects. This unique academic experience allows students to be actively engaged in their educational journey every step of the way.
One of the most notable aspects of student life is the Town Meeting, a monthly assembly that is the center of community life and a place to discuss a wide range of college issues. All students, faculty, and staff members are allowed to participate and have an equal vote. Members of the Marlboro community have a strong influence in administrative decisions, allowing students to have an important say in their college government. In the past several years the school has made a significant effort to expand the art and music departments, adding a new performing arts center with a 125-seat auditorium, an electronic music lab, practice rooms with baby grand pianos and a 5,000 square foot dance studio. Although the campus does not have any official sports teams, students have the opportunity to participate in many outdoor activities through the Outdoor and Recreation Program. Marlboro offers a variety of seasonal outdoor activities including kayaking, whitewater outings, caving, climbing, and backpacking, as well as a fair number of organized sports.
One of the most unique aspects of Marlboro’s admissions process is that it does not require SAT/ ACT scores or take into account a student’s GPA. While students can submit these, it is not a requirement for the application process. Marlboro is most interested in admitting well-rounded students who are self-motivated, have a deep passion for learning, and a desire to be active contributors on campus. The admissions team accepts 80% of students who apply each year, so students have a high chance of earning a spot in the school and being eligible to receive financial scholarships offered by the school. While a small, rural college is not for everyone, Marlboro will appeal to students who are looking for a unique educational experience that encourages them to be independent, self-sufficient, and follow a non-traditional course of study.
Santa Clara University
Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University is the oldest operating university in all of California. The school is located in the heart of Silicon Valley on a campus that surrounds the Mission of Santa Clara de Asis, which dates all the way back to 1776, more than 70 years before California even became a state.
SCU is a private non-profit Jesuit university. While this means the school has to adhere to certain Jesuit principles, it is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Various ministry programs and lectures are held on campus, and all students are invited but not required to attend them. Undergraduate students are required, however, to complete three religious studies courses as part of their degrees.
Students at Santa Clara can pursue any of 45 majors in three schools and colleges: the College of Arts and Science, the School of Engineering, and the Leavey School of Business. Most impressively, the university also offers undergrads a large number of extracurricular activities to further their learning. The Markkula Center for Applied Ethics brings together students, faculty, and community members to research and discuss applied ethics topics focused on areas such as business, health care, and biotechnology, just to name a few. The Ignation Center for Jesuit Education provides students with numerous community-learning opportunities as well as immersion trips to developing countries so that students can really apply what they’ve been learning in the classroom.
One really cool feature of SCU’s undergraduate experience is the Residential Learning Program. Residential Learnig Communities (RLCs) are groups of students who usually live in the same residence hall and take some classes together. There are eight RLCs, each of which is based around a certain theme. RLCs are meant to help students integrate into campus life and make them feel like they belong to a community.
For a student body of only 5,400 undergrads, Santa Clara also offers a relatively high number of extracurricular activities to choose from. There are more than 125 student organizations and clubs covering everything from anthropology and STEM research to improv and dance. Sports are also a pretty big focus on this campus. SCU participates in NCAA’s Division I, so the basketball team is a big source of pride. There are also 19 varsity sports and 18 club sports for students to enjoy as either participants or as spectators.
Santa Clara University has a lot of wonderful things to offer potential students but perhaps its most notable quality is its commitment to advancing an inclusive campus based on its Jesuit values. Diversity is not just welcomed, it’s celebrated here, and this results in a uniquely respectful and caring campus.
For more information: http://www.scu.edu
SCU is a private non-profit Jesuit university. While this means the school has to adhere to certain Jesuit principles, it is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Various ministry programs and lectures are held on campus, and all students are invited but not required to attend them. Undergraduate students are required, however, to complete three religious studies courses as part of their degrees.
Students at Santa Clara can pursue any of 45 majors in three schools and colleges: the College of Arts and Science, the School of Engineering, and the Leavey School of Business. Most impressively, the university also offers undergrads a large number of extracurricular activities to further their learning. The Markkula Center for Applied Ethics brings together students, faculty, and community members to research and discuss applied ethics topics focused on areas such as business, health care, and biotechnology, just to name a few. The Ignation Center for Jesuit Education provides students with numerous community-learning opportunities as well as immersion trips to developing countries so that students can really apply what they’ve been learning in the classroom.
One really cool feature of SCU’s undergraduate experience is the Residential Learning Program. Residential Learnig Communities (RLCs) are groups of students who usually live in the same residence hall and take some classes together. There are eight RLCs, each of which is based around a certain theme. RLCs are meant to help students integrate into campus life and make them feel like they belong to a community.
For a student body of only 5,400 undergrads, Santa Clara also offers a relatively high number of extracurricular activities to choose from. There are more than 125 student organizations and clubs covering everything from anthropology and STEM research to improv and dance. Sports are also a pretty big focus on this campus. SCU participates in NCAA’s Division I, so the basketball team is a big source of pride. There are also 19 varsity sports and 18 club sports for students to enjoy as either participants or as spectators.
Santa Clara University has a lot of wonderful things to offer potential students but perhaps its most notable quality is its commitment to advancing an inclusive campus based on its Jesuit values. Diversity is not just welcomed, it’s celebrated here, and this results in a uniquely respectful and caring campus.
For more information: http://www.scu.edu
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Located in Kings Point, New York, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a national institution that trains and educates young men and women to become Merchant Marine officers. Also known as U.S.M.M.A or more simply, King’s Point, the academy has a well respected history that includes being one of the first five federal service academies to admit women, devoting its resources to meet the emergency needs of Merchant Marine officers during World War II, and helping to evacuate civilians and transport first responders on 9/11.
King’s point is well known for having a pretty demanding curriculum. Students are expected to come ready to be challenged and pushed to their limits, both intellectually and physically, so that they will one day become effective and successful leaders. The regimented program requires the completion of more credit hours than other federal service academies over the course of four years, and one of those years is spent gaining practical experience by working on commercial vessels that sail to various ports around the globe.
The academy has approximately 1,000 students or Midshipmen, as students are more commonly known. Midshipmen are trained in marine engineering, navigation, ship administration, maritime and international law, management, customs, and other subjects pertinent to running a large vessel. King’s Point offers Bachelors degrees in a number of Marine-related studies, including Marine Transportation, Marine Logistics and Security, and Marine Engineering.
But all the training, drills, and classroom time doesn’t mean that Midshipmen aren’t allowed to have any fun. King’s point offers students a variety of activities and services that include clubs, professional organizations, and culture activities (also, New York City is only 20 miles away). Sports are also pretty prominent on this campus, and include men’s and women’s basketball, lacrosse, swimming & diving.
Upon graduation, students hold both a Bachelor of Science degree as well as a U.S. Coast Guard License, and have to complete a five-year service obligation. Each student can individually decide as to whether he or she will spend those years serving as an active member of the armed forces or working as a civilian in the U.S. maritime industry while simultaneously serving as a reserve officer.
So what does it take to get into the academy? In addition to having a strong GPA and SAT/ACT scores, students are required to be of good moral character, hold U.S. citizenship, meet physical and security qualifications, and obtain a nomination from a member of Congress (now that is one impressive recommendation later). The rigorous admission requirements, coupled with the challenging workload that Midshipmen undertake, make academy graduates highly sought after as military and merchant marine officers.
For more information: http://www.usmma.edu
King’s point is well known for having a pretty demanding curriculum. Students are expected to come ready to be challenged and pushed to their limits, both intellectually and physically, so that they will one day become effective and successful leaders. The regimented program requires the completion of more credit hours than other federal service academies over the course of four years, and one of those years is spent gaining practical experience by working on commercial vessels that sail to various ports around the globe.
The academy has approximately 1,000 students or Midshipmen, as students are more commonly known. Midshipmen are trained in marine engineering, navigation, ship administration, maritime and international law, management, customs, and other subjects pertinent to running a large vessel. King’s Point offers Bachelors degrees in a number of Marine-related studies, including Marine Transportation, Marine Logistics and Security, and Marine Engineering.
But all the training, drills, and classroom time doesn’t mean that Midshipmen aren’t allowed to have any fun. King’s point offers students a variety of activities and services that include clubs, professional organizations, and culture activities (also, New York City is only 20 miles away). Sports are also pretty prominent on this campus, and include men’s and women’s basketball, lacrosse, swimming & diving.
Upon graduation, students hold both a Bachelor of Science degree as well as a U.S. Coast Guard License, and have to complete a five-year service obligation. Each student can individually decide as to whether he or she will spend those years serving as an active member of the armed forces or working as a civilian in the U.S. maritime industry while simultaneously serving as a reserve officer.
So what does it take to get into the academy? In addition to having a strong GPA and SAT/ACT scores, students are required to be of good moral character, hold U.S. citizenship, meet physical and security qualifications, and obtain a nomination from a member of Congress (now that is one impressive recommendation later). The rigorous admission requirements, coupled with the challenging workload that Midshipmen undertake, make academy graduates highly sought after as military and merchant marine officers.
For more information: http://www.usmma.edu
University of Kansas
More than 150 years ago, anti-slavery settlers in Kansas Territory intent on ensuring that Kansas would enter the union as a free state were described as “jayhawkers.” At the end of the Civil War, that region’s same spirit of freedom led to the establishment of the largest public higher education institution in the region, the University of Kansas. Now, the Jayhawk, a sparrow hawk and blue jay hybrid, is the university’s mascot and is emblazoned on athletic uniforms and hoodies worn with pride.
Known for the scope and quality of its academic programs, KU offers more than 190 undergraduate majors in the sciences, arts, and humanities. Many of its programs are highly ranked and well renowned. For example, its School of Architecture and Urban Design has one of the best undergrad architecture programs in the nation. The university is also repeatedly listed as one of the best values in higher education – tuition is 13% below the national average and a whopping 50% of students graduate from bachelor’s degree programs debt-free.
The University of Kansas is also a leader in research and has 12 major internationally recognized research centers and laboratories that oversee studies in cancer treatment, life span issues, and biodiversity, just to name a few. Its Cancer Center is Kansas’ only designated National Cancer Institute. The Biodiversity Institute holds more than 10 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, and archaeological artifacts, and is a world leader in collection-based studies such as evolution, paleobiology, and past cultures.
Considered one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation, University of Kansas’ central campus is situated in the tree filled hills of Lawrence, a small city with a population of 90,000. The campus is the hub of the city and the nearby downtown area offers students an array of music venues, art galleries and hip eateries. For those who crave a big city every so often, Kansas City is only 40 minutes away and is great for weekend day trips.
Sports, especially men’s basketball, are a big deal for KU students. The Kansas Jayhawks participate in the NCAA’s Division I and in the Big 12 Conference, and have won thirteen National Championships, five of which are in men’s basketball.
But this isn’t to say that you have to be into sports to fit in at this school. There are over 600 organizations that include a varied collection of clubs, student government, as well as social, political, religious, and service groups. The university’s debate team has had more teams compete in the National Debate Tournament than any other university and has won the tournament a total of five times. In 2007, the University Daily Kansan, the school’s newspaper, placed first in the Intercollegiate Writing Competition of the William Randolph Hearst Writing Foundation competition.
So if you want a great education at an amazing value, coupled with a campus teeming with activities and school pride, joining the Jayhawks family might be perfect for you.
For more information: https://www.ku.edu
Known for the scope and quality of its academic programs, KU offers more than 190 undergraduate majors in the sciences, arts, and humanities. Many of its programs are highly ranked and well renowned. For example, its School of Architecture and Urban Design has one of the best undergrad architecture programs in the nation. The university is also repeatedly listed as one of the best values in higher education – tuition is 13% below the national average and a whopping 50% of students graduate from bachelor’s degree programs debt-free.
The University of Kansas is also a leader in research and has 12 major internationally recognized research centers and laboratories that oversee studies in cancer treatment, life span issues, and biodiversity, just to name a few. Its Cancer Center is Kansas’ only designated National Cancer Institute. The Biodiversity Institute holds more than 10 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, and archaeological artifacts, and is a world leader in collection-based studies such as evolution, paleobiology, and past cultures.
Considered one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation, University of Kansas’ central campus is situated in the tree filled hills of Lawrence, a small city with a population of 90,000. The campus is the hub of the city and the nearby downtown area offers students an array of music venues, art galleries and hip eateries. For those who crave a big city every so often, Kansas City is only 40 minutes away and is great for weekend day trips.
Sports, especially men’s basketball, are a big deal for KU students. The Kansas Jayhawks participate in the NCAA’s Division I and in the Big 12 Conference, and have won thirteen National Championships, five of which are in men’s basketball.
But this isn’t to say that you have to be into sports to fit in at this school. There are over 600 organizations that include a varied collection of clubs, student government, as well as social, political, religious, and service groups. The university’s debate team has had more teams compete in the National Debate Tournament than any other university and has won the tournament a total of five times. In 2007, the University Daily Kansan, the school’s newspaper, placed first in the Intercollegiate Writing Competition of the William Randolph Hearst Writing Foundation competition.
So if you want a great education at an amazing value, coupled with a campus teeming with activities and school pride, joining the Jayhawks family might be perfect for you.
For more information: https://www.ku.edu
Bowdoin College
As one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the U.S., Bowdoin believes that it has an obligation to direct the education of its students toward a common good. This aim informs much of how the school approaches academics, extracurricular activities, and campus life.
One of the most impressive ways this commitment is demonstrated is via the college’s grant program. In 2008, aware that many students forgo pursuing lower-paying careers in fields like education and social work because of the prohibitive cost of repaying school loans, Bowdoin eliminated all loans for new and current students receiving financial aid. The college now covers 100% of demonstrated financial need with grants so that students can pursue careers that suit their interests and contribute to the common good.
Bowdoin is one of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the country; 14.5% of applicants were admitted in 2014. That said, the school is part of the SAT optional movement so even though a score is required for matriculation, you don’t have to include one with your application.
Academically, Bowdoin’s forte lies in its government and legal studies, the most popular major at the school, as well as in economics, the natural sciences, English, and Romance Languages. It’s pretty common for students to take classes with highly renowned scientists, scholars, artists, and writers. And with only 1,800 students, the school has an impressive student-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring you will get a lot of personal attention.
In pursuit of intellectually challenging its students, Bowdoin prides itself on numerous programs that give students hands-on experience both in and out of the classroom. Community-based learning allows students to explore careers in the public sector by matching them with local nonprofits. The Bowdoin Teacher Scholars program gives students the opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience by placing juniors and seniors who have completed teaching minors in area public schools. Various field programs enable students to demonstrate their knowledge by partaking in research in their areas of study.
To create a more inclusive campus community, Bowdoin eliminated Greek fraternities in the late 1990s. Since then, students are assigned to one of eight “college house” affiliations, one of the school’s most unique features. College House leaders, house presidents, and affiliates work together to host events across campus, and all students are encouraged to get involved in school-wide initiatives through the Houses.
Student organizations flourish on this campus. There are more than 100 active groups, a large number for any school, but especially impressive for this small student body. Bowdoin’s Peucinian Society is one of the country’s most prestigious literary societies and holds debates concerning culture, statesmanship, and politics.
Lastly, attending Bowdoin means joining an institution that has a rich sense of American history. Notable alumni include Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Franklin Pierce (don’t feel badly if you also had to look that last one up – he’s only, you know, a former U.S. president).
For more information: http://www.bowdoin.edu
One of the most impressive ways this commitment is demonstrated is via the college’s grant program. In 2008, aware that many students forgo pursuing lower-paying careers in fields like education and social work because of the prohibitive cost of repaying school loans, Bowdoin eliminated all loans for new and current students receiving financial aid. The college now covers 100% of demonstrated financial need with grants so that students can pursue careers that suit their interests and contribute to the common good.
Bowdoin is one of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the country; 14.5% of applicants were admitted in 2014. That said, the school is part of the SAT optional movement so even though a score is required for matriculation, you don’t have to include one with your application.
Academically, Bowdoin’s forte lies in its government and legal studies, the most popular major at the school, as well as in economics, the natural sciences, English, and Romance Languages. It’s pretty common for students to take classes with highly renowned scientists, scholars, artists, and writers. And with only 1,800 students, the school has an impressive student-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring you will get a lot of personal attention.
In pursuit of intellectually challenging its students, Bowdoin prides itself on numerous programs that give students hands-on experience both in and out of the classroom. Community-based learning allows students to explore careers in the public sector by matching them with local nonprofits. The Bowdoin Teacher Scholars program gives students the opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience by placing juniors and seniors who have completed teaching minors in area public schools. Various field programs enable students to demonstrate their knowledge by partaking in research in their areas of study.
To create a more inclusive campus community, Bowdoin eliminated Greek fraternities in the late 1990s. Since then, students are assigned to one of eight “college house” affiliations, one of the school’s most unique features. College House leaders, house presidents, and affiliates work together to host events across campus, and all students are encouraged to get involved in school-wide initiatives through the Houses.
Student organizations flourish on this campus. There are more than 100 active groups, a large number for any school, but especially impressive for this small student body. Bowdoin’s Peucinian Society is one of the country’s most prestigious literary societies and holds debates concerning culture, statesmanship, and politics.
Lastly, attending Bowdoin means joining an institution that has a rich sense of American history. Notable alumni include Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Franklin Pierce (don’t feel badly if you also had to look that last one up – he’s only, you know, a former U.S. president).
For more information: http://www.bowdoin.edu
Clemson University
Originally established in 1893 as the Clemson Agricultural College of South Carolina, Clemson was an all-male military school focused on scientific agriculture and mechanical arts. Sixty years later, the university transformed into a civilian, co-educational institution. It expanded its academic focus and research interests, becoming officially known as Clemson University in 1964.
Since its expansion, Clemson has intently focused on becoming a “Top 20” public institution, and has steadily climbed in the rankings by nurturing its graduate studies while continuing to strengthen its undergraduate programs. One of the university’s most renowned academic endeavors is the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research, a campus focused on automotive engineering research. BMW, Microsoft, IBM, Bosch, The Timken Company, and Michelin are all major corporate partners of the center.
Clemson stresses the importance of what it calls “engagement,” and encourages students to participate in on- and off-campus opportunities. The school facilitates this goal by offering students a plethora of ways to become involved. The Cooperative Education Program enables students to work directly under a mentor in their field. Students are encouraged to tackle real-world problems by partaking in team-based investigations led by a faculty mentor. In addition to more traditional study abroad programs, Clemson also offers programs that allow students to study and work in Washington, D.C.
Because of the school’s origins as a military academy, it still maintains an active military presence. It’s also home to U.S. Army and Air Force Reserve Training Corps., and gives students the opportunity to become Air Force officers while pursuing their college degrees.
Clemson has an active student body and school spirit is HIGH. During the annual Spirit Blitz Week, students are encouraged to wear orange, the school color, in support of the football team. The Clemson Homecoming Tradition is a century-old annual event that has students building and showing off Homecoming floats to enthusiastic crowds, crowning a Miss Homecoming, and participating in Tigerama, one of the country’s largest student-run pep rallies. Over 40,000 people participate in Tigerama every year.
Greek life is also a big deal at this school, so if you’re planning to join a fraternity or a sorority in college, you might want to know that there are 44 of them at Clemson, and that about 25% of all students are members. While there are no traditional Greek houses on campus, there are residence halls designated for Greek use and off-campus fraternity and sorority houses.
There is so much to say about Clemson’s campus, but let me focus on the fact that this school has its own beach. Yes, you read that correctly. The university is situated along Hartwell Lake, and Clemson’s Campus Beach and Recreation Area is mere minutes from main campus. What can be better than being able to go for a dip or just lounge on the sand as a way to reward yourself for doing well on an exam or turning in a top-notch essay? Sounds pretty ideal to me.
For more information: http://www.clemson.edu
Since its expansion, Clemson has intently focused on becoming a “Top 20” public institution, and has steadily climbed in the rankings by nurturing its graduate studies while continuing to strengthen its undergraduate programs. One of the university’s most renowned academic endeavors is the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research, a campus focused on automotive engineering research. BMW, Microsoft, IBM, Bosch, The Timken Company, and Michelin are all major corporate partners of the center.
Clemson stresses the importance of what it calls “engagement,” and encourages students to participate in on- and off-campus opportunities. The school facilitates this goal by offering students a plethora of ways to become involved. The Cooperative Education Program enables students to work directly under a mentor in their field. Students are encouraged to tackle real-world problems by partaking in team-based investigations led by a faculty mentor. In addition to more traditional study abroad programs, Clemson also offers programs that allow students to study and work in Washington, D.C.
Because of the school’s origins as a military academy, it still maintains an active military presence. It’s also home to U.S. Army and Air Force Reserve Training Corps., and gives students the opportunity to become Air Force officers while pursuing their college degrees.
Clemson has an active student body and school spirit is HIGH. During the annual Spirit Blitz Week, students are encouraged to wear orange, the school color, in support of the football team. The Clemson Homecoming Tradition is a century-old annual event that has students building and showing off Homecoming floats to enthusiastic crowds, crowning a Miss Homecoming, and participating in Tigerama, one of the country’s largest student-run pep rallies. Over 40,000 people participate in Tigerama every year.
Greek life is also a big deal at this school, so if you’re planning to join a fraternity or a sorority in college, you might want to know that there are 44 of them at Clemson, and that about 25% of all students are members. While there are no traditional Greek houses on campus, there are residence halls designated for Greek use and off-campus fraternity and sorority houses.
There is so much to say about Clemson’s campus, but let me focus on the fact that this school has its own beach. Yes, you read that correctly. The university is situated along Hartwell Lake, and Clemson’s Campus Beach and Recreation Area is mere minutes from main campus. What can be better than being able to go for a dip or just lounge on the sand as a way to reward yourself for doing well on an exam or turning in a top-notch essay? Sounds pretty ideal to me.
For more information: http://www.clemson.edu
Catholic University of America
Located in Washington, D.C., Catholic University of America is a private college and the only higher learning institution established by the U.S. Catholic Bishops. Founded in 1887 as a graduate school and research center, CUA soon grew into a comprehensive university and now offers 72 undergraduate degrees.
As a pontifical university of the Catholic Church, CUA aims to foster an understanding of Christianity within an educational context. Currently, CUA is the only U.S. university to have been visited by two popes. It’s also one of only two universities to have been visited by a pontiff.
But CUA’s strong alignment with the Catholic Church is not one meant to exclude potential students who aren’t Catholic. The campus has over 6,000 students from all 50 states and around the world, and welcomes students of all religious beliefs. Approximately 84% of undergraduate students and 59% of graduate students self-identify as Catholic, while the remainder of students identify with other faiths or none.
CUA’s curriculum emphasizes the liberal arts, professional education, and personal development, and all undergrads take liberal arts courses in addition to courses in their major fields of study. Because of its origins as a graduate school, CUA prides itself on its faculty members’ and students’ original research. It also emphasizes the importance of undergraduate research, and offers research opportunities to undergrads of all majors.
Of course it’s not all work and no play at this school. CUA has more than 80 student organizations as well as campus-produced musicals and performances, opportunities for individual leadership developments, and community service projects. Annual events include numerous dances, formal balls, ski trips, and weeklong Homecoming celebrations. The university also publishes an independent weekly newspaper and a literary magazine.
Community service is especially important at CUA. In 2011, in honor of the university’s upcoming 125th anniversary, students, staff, faculty, and alumni set out to complete 125,000 hours of community service in just under a year. At the end of the challenge, more than 350,000 community service hours were recorded, earning CUA the highest federal recognition an institution can receive on The President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
Located in the residential community of Brookland in Northeast Washington, CUA’s neighborhood is known as “Little Rome” because of the high number of Catholic institutions in the area. The tree-lined campus combines both Romanesque and modern designs, and surrounds the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a prominent Roman Rite Catholic basilica. The U.S. Environmental Agency and the Princeton Review have both touted the university’s campus as one of the most environmentally responsible. The university purchases 30% of its electricity from green sources and its most recently constructed buildings are all LEED-compliant.
If community service, environmental responsibility, and a beautiful campus in the middle of a bustling city sound like traits you’d love in a college campus, CUA is definitely worth looking into. For more information: http://www.cua.edu
As a pontifical university of the Catholic Church, CUA aims to foster an understanding of Christianity within an educational context. Currently, CUA is the only U.S. university to have been visited by two popes. It’s also one of only two universities to have been visited by a pontiff.
But CUA’s strong alignment with the Catholic Church is not one meant to exclude potential students who aren’t Catholic. The campus has over 6,000 students from all 50 states and around the world, and welcomes students of all religious beliefs. Approximately 84% of undergraduate students and 59% of graduate students self-identify as Catholic, while the remainder of students identify with other faiths or none.
CUA’s curriculum emphasizes the liberal arts, professional education, and personal development, and all undergrads take liberal arts courses in addition to courses in their major fields of study. Because of its origins as a graduate school, CUA prides itself on its faculty members’ and students’ original research. It also emphasizes the importance of undergraduate research, and offers research opportunities to undergrads of all majors.
Of course it’s not all work and no play at this school. CUA has more than 80 student organizations as well as campus-produced musicals and performances, opportunities for individual leadership developments, and community service projects. Annual events include numerous dances, formal balls, ski trips, and weeklong Homecoming celebrations. The university also publishes an independent weekly newspaper and a literary magazine.
Community service is especially important at CUA. In 2011, in honor of the university’s upcoming 125th anniversary, students, staff, faculty, and alumni set out to complete 125,000 hours of community service in just under a year. At the end of the challenge, more than 350,000 community service hours were recorded, earning CUA the highest federal recognition an institution can receive on The President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
Located in the residential community of Brookland in Northeast Washington, CUA’s neighborhood is known as “Little Rome” because of the high number of Catholic institutions in the area. The tree-lined campus combines both Romanesque and modern designs, and surrounds the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a prominent Roman Rite Catholic basilica. The U.S. Environmental Agency and the Princeton Review have both touted the university’s campus as one of the most environmentally responsible. The university purchases 30% of its electricity from green sources and its most recently constructed buildings are all LEED-compliant.
If community service, environmental responsibility, and a beautiful campus in the middle of a bustling city sound like traits you’d love in a college campus, CUA is definitely worth looking into. For more information: http://www.cua.edu
Bates College
Dream of being a part of a small-knit prestigious liberal arts university esteemed for not only its academic rigor but also for its commitment to freedom and social justice? Think fraternities and sororities aren’t really your thing, and that you’d rather be a part of clubs and organizations that are open to anyone who is interested in joining? Want to live in a Victorian house for all four years in college? If you answered yes to these questions, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine is definitely worth a look.
Bates was founded by Maine abolitionists in 1855 and since then, has welcomed students from diverse racial, ethnic, religious and economic backgrounds. This spirit of inclusion manifests itself in pretty much every aspect of the university’s culture. Bates has never had sororities, fraternities, or any organization that can exclude people. They believe that any activities associated with the school should be open to everyone. And that, in my opinion, is pretty cool.
Bates’ approach to admissions and academics is pretty egalitarian as well. As one of the leaders of the SAT-Optional movement, the university doesn’t require you to submit SAT or ACT scores. And while the school offers 35 departmental and interdisciplinary majors, students have the option to design their own interdisciplinary major if none of the existing ones don’t align with their academic interests or goals. Every student is given one-on-one time with faculty, be it through independent study, research, or senior thesis supervision. Bates also prides itself on its community-based learning, helping more than half of its students integrate community service into their academic work.
But Bates’ scope doesn’t just include its campus and immediate community; its reach is impressively global. About two-thirds of all students participate in study abroad programs. This is a relatively high number. Bates doesn’t just encourage its students to go out there and explore the world; it also facilitates it with an academic calendar that includes a five-week term during which students can participate in off-campus programs.
Now let’s talk about those Victorian houses (it’s easy to tell what really peaks my interest). There are 25 of these beauties on campus and each one houses anywhere from 10 to 30 students. There are also over a dozen traditional residence halls. A high percentage of students – 95% – live in on-campus accommodations, creating an atmosphere of community and participation.
Last but certainly not least, Bates’ location along the Androscoggin River and in close proximity to 2.260-acre Lake Auburn offers students a bevy of outdoor activity options. There are easily accessible walking trails, natural parks, golf courses, and freshwater beaches. For more information: http://www.bates.edu
Bates was founded by Maine abolitionists in 1855 and since then, has welcomed students from diverse racial, ethnic, religious and economic backgrounds. This spirit of inclusion manifests itself in pretty much every aspect of the university’s culture. Bates has never had sororities, fraternities, or any organization that can exclude people. They believe that any activities associated with the school should be open to everyone. And that, in my opinion, is pretty cool.
Bates’ approach to admissions and academics is pretty egalitarian as well. As one of the leaders of the SAT-Optional movement, the university doesn’t require you to submit SAT or ACT scores. And while the school offers 35 departmental and interdisciplinary majors, students have the option to design their own interdisciplinary major if none of the existing ones don’t align with their academic interests or goals. Every student is given one-on-one time with faculty, be it through independent study, research, or senior thesis supervision. Bates also prides itself on its community-based learning, helping more than half of its students integrate community service into their academic work.
But Bates’ scope doesn’t just include its campus and immediate community; its reach is impressively global. About two-thirds of all students participate in study abroad programs. This is a relatively high number. Bates doesn’t just encourage its students to go out there and explore the world; it also facilitates it with an academic calendar that includes a five-week term during which students can participate in off-campus programs.
Now let’s talk about those Victorian houses (it’s easy to tell what really peaks my interest). There are 25 of these beauties on campus and each one houses anywhere from 10 to 30 students. There are also over a dozen traditional residence halls. A high percentage of students – 95% – live in on-campus accommodations, creating an atmosphere of community and participation.
Last but certainly not least, Bates’ location along the Androscoggin River and in close proximity to 2.260-acre Lake Auburn offers students a bevy of outdoor activity options. There are easily accessible walking trails, natural parks, golf courses, and freshwater beaches. For more information: http://www.bates.edu
University of California, Merced
Walking through Edinburgh’s winding cobblestone streets can feel a lot like stepping into the world of Harry Potter. That should be no surprise given that J.K. Rowling wrote the series’ first installment in one of the city’s many quaint cafes and used Edinburgh’s breathtaking gothic architecture as inspiration for the story’s setting.
The University of Edinburgh is at the very heart of this wondrous city. Founded in 1583, it’s one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, and has a strong tradition of fostering enlightened ideas and independent thought. Its long list of notable alumni includes some of history’s greatest minds. Naturalist Charles Darwin, philosopher David Hume, and inventor Alexander Graham Bell all graduated from the university.
You might be surprised to read that the first commencement speech delivered by Michelle Obama as First Lady took place in the San Joaquin Valley, a locale long associated with farming and cattle. In 2009, the graduating class of UC Merced, which is located in the valley, sent hundreds of letters, videos, and even Valentine’s Day cards to convince Obama to choose their campus for her speech. Now that’s school spirit!
Opened in 2005, UC Merced is the tenth University of California college campus. Its newness, coupled with a small student population of 6,000, leaves UC Merced off many prospective students’ radars. This is pretty unfortunate as UC Merced does have a lot to offer, and can prove to be an ideal fit for the right student.
There are numerous pros and cons associated with attending a relatively new university. The first thing to come to most people’s minds is the question of reputation. UC Merced successfully manages to quell this concern through its association with the University of California, a public university school system that is widely recognized as one of the best in the country, if not the world. That affiliation has also helped the Merced campus to attract and keep a distinguished faculty with an impressive record of research accomplishments, an important factor in evaluating the quality of any higher learning institution.
Perhaps UC Merced’s most notable appeal is its offer of research opportunities to undergraduate students. At most universities, lab research is reserved for graduate students. But at Merced, undergrads can and do actively contribute to faculty research projects. The university prides itself on making undergrad research a priority, one that is integral to the school’s approach to research and isn’t just a result of having a small student body.
Of course, attending a small and somewhat rural campus isn’t for everyone, but doing so comes with some definite perks that are worth considering. Lecture halls at Merced are capped at 300 students, half the size of halls at other UC campuses, and smaller discussion sections hover at around 20 students. This translates to more intimate learning environments, a big draw for students who want specialized attention and more one-on-one time with their instructors.
Being a part of a new but steadily growing university campus can also give students the room and flexibility needed to make lasting impacts. Students at UC Merced have the chance to develop and launch new clubs and organizations, thereby shaping the university’s campus life for future students.
Located in a city with a population of 80,000, the newest UC campus is not for those seeking a bustling city experience during their college years. But with Yosemite National Park about an hour east, the campus is a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts who would enjoy camping, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and mountain climbing on the weekends.
So if you’re looking for smaller classes, a relaxed atmosphere, and a regular dose of nature, this college is definitely worth checking out. For more http://www.ucmerced.edu
In addition to its broad range of majors, Edinburgh also offers undergraduates flexible degrees. Some science, engineering, art, and design majors can apply as second-year students, thereby making it possible to graduate after just three years. For those seeking more in-depth specialized study, the university offers certain five-year programs that let you do just that.
Outside of the classroom, Edinburgh has an active and vibrant student body. The Edinburgh University Students’ Association regularly holds social events. Teviot Row House, the oldest student union in the world, houses six bars that offer food, drinks, and hosts everything from pub quizzes to cèilidhs, traditional Scottish dances that are a must for new students. More than a whopping 240 student societies – from subject-specific groups like the Literature Society and Geographical Society to more eccentric ones like the Juggling Society and the Cheese Society – have something to offer those with even the most eclectic tastes.
Lastly, it’s impossible to speak of Edinburgh and not mention the city’s annual highlight: the Edinburgh Festival. Every August, the city’s population nearly doubles as artists and patrons descend upon Edinburgh to partake in a collective of cultural festivals held across the city. Cabarets, comedy shows, theatrical and dance performances, concerts, and circus acts converge to create an unforgettable atmosphere of revelry. The university plays an important role in the yearly festivities, transforming several of its buildings and courtyards into performance venues.
Being in Auld Reekie, as the city is affectionately known, feels a bit magical. This might be because a medieval castle perches atop a rock overlooking the city and dramatic sunsets paint the sky vibrant gold and purple nearly every evening. The rainy weather, of course, is a consideration. But for those who like their umbrellas and sweaters, spending your college years in Edinburgh can perhaps lead to the most enchanted time of your life. For more information, check out: http://www.ed.ac.uk
The University of Edinburgh is at the very heart of this wondrous city. Founded in 1583, it’s one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, and has a strong tradition of fostering enlightened ideas and independent thought. Its long list of notable alumni includes some of history’s greatest minds. Naturalist Charles Darwin, philosopher David Hume, and inventor Alexander Graham Bell all graduated from the university.
You might be surprised to read that the first commencement speech delivered by Michelle Obama as First Lady took place in the San Joaquin Valley, a locale long associated with farming and cattle. In 2009, the graduating class of UC Merced, which is located in the valley, sent hundreds of letters, videos, and even Valentine’s Day cards to convince Obama to choose their campus for her speech. Now that’s school spirit!
Opened in 2005, UC Merced is the tenth University of California college campus. Its newness, coupled with a small student population of 6,000, leaves UC Merced off many prospective students’ radars. This is pretty unfortunate as UC Merced does have a lot to offer, and can prove to be an ideal fit for the right student.
There are numerous pros and cons associated with attending a relatively new university. The first thing to come to most people’s minds is the question of reputation. UC Merced successfully manages to quell this concern through its association with the University of California, a public university school system that is widely recognized as one of the best in the country, if not the world. That affiliation has also helped the Merced campus to attract and keep a distinguished faculty with an impressive record of research accomplishments, an important factor in evaluating the quality of any higher learning institution.
Perhaps UC Merced’s most notable appeal is its offer of research opportunities to undergraduate students. At most universities, lab research is reserved for graduate students. But at Merced, undergrads can and do actively contribute to faculty research projects. The university prides itself on making undergrad research a priority, one that is integral to the school’s approach to research and isn’t just a result of having a small student body.
Of course, attending a small and somewhat rural campus isn’t for everyone, but doing so comes with some definite perks that are worth considering. Lecture halls at Merced are capped at 300 students, half the size of halls at other UC campuses, and smaller discussion sections hover at around 20 students. This translates to more intimate learning environments, a big draw for students who want specialized attention and more one-on-one time with their instructors.
Being a part of a new but steadily growing university campus can also give students the room and flexibility needed to make lasting impacts. Students at UC Merced have the chance to develop and launch new clubs and organizations, thereby shaping the university’s campus life for future students.
Located in a city with a population of 80,000, the newest UC campus is not for those seeking a bustling city experience during their college years. But with Yosemite National Park about an hour east, the campus is a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts who would enjoy camping, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and mountain climbing on the weekends.
So if you’re looking for smaller classes, a relaxed atmosphere, and a regular dose of nature, this college is definitely worth checking out. For more http://www.ucmerced.edu
In addition to its broad range of majors, Edinburgh also offers undergraduates flexible degrees. Some science, engineering, art, and design majors can apply as second-year students, thereby making it possible to graduate after just three years. For those seeking more in-depth specialized study, the university offers certain five-year programs that let you do just that.
Outside of the classroom, Edinburgh has an active and vibrant student body. The Edinburgh University Students’ Association regularly holds social events. Teviot Row House, the oldest student union in the world, houses six bars that offer food, drinks, and hosts everything from pub quizzes to cèilidhs, traditional Scottish dances that are a must for new students. More than a whopping 240 student societies – from subject-specific groups like the Literature Society and Geographical Society to more eccentric ones like the Juggling Society and the Cheese Society – have something to offer those with even the most eclectic tastes.
Lastly, it’s impossible to speak of Edinburgh and not mention the city’s annual highlight: the Edinburgh Festival. Every August, the city’s population nearly doubles as artists and patrons descend upon Edinburgh to partake in a collective of cultural festivals held across the city. Cabarets, comedy shows, theatrical and dance performances, concerts, and circus acts converge to create an unforgettable atmosphere of revelry. The university plays an important role in the yearly festivities, transforming several of its buildings and courtyards into performance venues.
Being in Auld Reekie, as the city is affectionately known, feels a bit magical. This might be because a medieval castle perches atop a rock overlooking the city and dramatic sunsets paint the sky vibrant gold and purple nearly every evening. The rainy weather, of course, is a consideration. But for those who like their umbrellas and sweaters, spending your college years in Edinburgh can perhaps lead to the most enchanted time of your life. For more information, check out: http://www.ed.ac.uk
University of Edinburgh
Walking through Edinburgh’s winding cobblestone streets can feel a lot like stepping into the world of Harry Potter. That should be no surprise given that J.K. Rowling wrote the series’ first installment in one of the city’s many quaint cafes and used Edinburgh’s breathtaking gothic architecture as inspiration for the story’s setting.
The University of Edinburgh is at the very heart of this wondrous city. Founded in 1583, it’s one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, and has a strong tradition of fostering enlightened ideas and independent thought. Its long list of notable alumni includes some of history’s greatest minds. Naturalist Charles Darwin, philosopher David Hume, and inventor Alexander Graham Bell all graduated from the university.
But this is isn’t to say that the University or Edinburgh is stuck in the past. Its three colleges – Humanities and Social Science, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, and Science and Engineering – are led by renowned faculty members and produce world-leading research. Peter Higgs developed his physics theory of the Higgs Boson there, and the university’s scientists created Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell.
In addition to its broad range of majors, Edinburgh also offers undergraduates flexible degrees. Some science, engineering, art, and design majors can apply as second-year students, thereby making it possible to graduate after just three years. For those seeking more in-depth specialized study, the university offers certain five-year programs that let you do just that.
Outside of the classroom, Edinburgh has an active and vibrant student body. The Edinburgh University Students’ Association regularly holds social events. Teviot Row House, the oldest student union in the world, houses six bars that offer food, drinks, and hosts everything from pub quizzes to cèilidhs, traditional Scottish dances that are a must for new students. More than a whopping 240 student societies – from subject-specific groups like the Literature Society and Geographical Society to more eccentric ones like the Juggling Society and the Cheese Society – have something to offer those with even the most eclectic tastes.
Lastly, it’s impossible to speak of Edinburgh and not mention the city’s annual highlight: the Edinburgh Festival. Every August, the city’s population nearly doubles as artists and patrons descend upon Edinburgh to partake in a collective of cultural festivals held across the city. Cabarets, comedy shows, theatrical and dance performances, concerts, and circus acts converge to create an unforgettable atmosphere of revelry. The university plays an important role in the yearly festivities, transforming several of its buildings and courtyards into performance venues.
Being in Auld Reekie, as the city is affectionately known, feels a bit magical. This might be because a medieval castle perches atop a rock overlooking the city and dramatic sunsets paint the sky vibrant gold and purple nearly every evening. The rainy weather, of course, is a consideration. But for those who like their umbrellas and sweaters, spending your college years in Edinburgh can perhaps lead to the most enchanted time of your life. For more information, check out: http://www.ed.ac.uk
The University of Edinburgh is at the very heart of this wondrous city. Founded in 1583, it’s one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, and has a strong tradition of fostering enlightened ideas and independent thought. Its long list of notable alumni includes some of history’s greatest minds. Naturalist Charles Darwin, philosopher David Hume, and inventor Alexander Graham Bell all graduated from the university.
But this is isn’t to say that the University or Edinburgh is stuck in the past. Its three colleges – Humanities and Social Science, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, and Science and Engineering – are led by renowned faculty members and produce world-leading research. Peter Higgs developed his physics theory of the Higgs Boson there, and the university’s scientists created Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell.
In addition to its broad range of majors, Edinburgh also offers undergraduates flexible degrees. Some science, engineering, art, and design majors can apply as second-year students, thereby making it possible to graduate after just three years. For those seeking more in-depth specialized study, the university offers certain five-year programs that let you do just that.
Outside of the classroom, Edinburgh has an active and vibrant student body. The Edinburgh University Students’ Association regularly holds social events. Teviot Row House, the oldest student union in the world, houses six bars that offer food, drinks, and hosts everything from pub quizzes to cèilidhs, traditional Scottish dances that are a must for new students. More than a whopping 240 student societies – from subject-specific groups like the Literature Society and Geographical Society to more eccentric ones like the Juggling Society and the Cheese Society – have something to offer those with even the most eclectic tastes.
Lastly, it’s impossible to speak of Edinburgh and not mention the city’s annual highlight: the Edinburgh Festival. Every August, the city’s population nearly doubles as artists and patrons descend upon Edinburgh to partake in a collective of cultural festivals held across the city. Cabarets, comedy shows, theatrical and dance performances, concerts, and circus acts converge to create an unforgettable atmosphere of revelry. The university plays an important role in the yearly festivities, transforming several of its buildings and courtyards into performance venues.
Being in Auld Reekie, as the city is affectionately known, feels a bit magical. This might be because a medieval castle perches atop a rock overlooking the city and dramatic sunsets paint the sky vibrant gold and purple nearly every evening. The rainy weather, of course, is a consideration. But for those who like their umbrellas and sweaters, spending your college years in Edinburgh can perhaps lead to the most enchanted time of your life. For more information, check out: http://www.ed.ac.uk
Montana State University
Spring is upon us! Flowers, warm weather, and culottes! Oh, who am I kidding? It’s always spring in Los Angeles, and culottes will never be fashionable again, no matter how hard I try. But in the spirit of empathy for the rest of the country, let us shine the college spotlight on a location that is just emerging from the snow, the kind of place that explodes with the colors and glory of spring in a way that we here in Los Angeles cannot even imagine.
I hate to start with its location when talking about Montana State University because there are so many amazing things to talk about with this school. But its location truly influences the educational areas that this school excels in. Located at the base of five different mountain ranges in a place nicknamed the “Valley of the Flowers, ” MSU is the perfect setting for the agricultural, environmental sciences, and land resource research hub that it has become. MSU is the state’s land-grant college, and with that title, it has been able to fund amazing research inspired by its environment. Montana is known for its vast eco-system and painted scenery. It has a landscape and seasonal environment that many Southern Californians have never experienced. So for students who are interested in studying these types of subjects, you really can’t beat a place like MSU in Bozeman.
Established in 1893, the school was born out of competition. After Montana became an official state of the union, many cities battled it out to become the state capitol. Bozeman, where MSU is located, lost the title to the city of Helena. However, the state legislature decided to put the state’s land-grant college in Bozeman instead, thus making it the state’s educational capital.
MSU is, first and foremost, a research college. It spends around 100 million dollars annually on a variety of different research endeavors, and it’s not just in environmental studies. The school is also known for its research in areas like immunology, chemistry, physics, and transportation. All of this is impressive, but the coolest thing about this college is the motivation behind the research. MSU is widely known for being a school that focuses on fixing problems. It wants to inspire its students to help their communities with their education. It is incredibly committed to this mission and is one of only 51 colleges in the country that has been labeled to have “very high research activity” and a “significant commitment to community engagement” simultaneously.
The one thing that really struck me about this school was its ability to achieve excellence in so many different areas of study. For instance, it’s the only school in the world to offer a Master of Fine Arts degree in Science and Natural History Filmmaking. The school’s Space Science and Engineering Laboratory was one of few in the country to build and launch their own satellites into space through collaboration with NASA. Also, MSU’s Natural History Museum houses the largest T-Rex skull in the world!
MSU is like a lone flower in a vast snowy valley. It is a pop of color in the grey winter of our souls. Okay, okay, it’s just a really great school. For more info: www.montana.edu
I hate to start with its location when talking about Montana State University because there are so many amazing things to talk about with this school. But its location truly influences the educational areas that this school excels in. Located at the base of five different mountain ranges in a place nicknamed the “Valley of the Flowers, ” MSU is the perfect setting for the agricultural, environmental sciences, and land resource research hub that it has become. MSU is the state’s land-grant college, and with that title, it has been able to fund amazing research inspired by its environment. Montana is known for its vast eco-system and painted scenery. It has a landscape and seasonal environment that many Southern Californians have never experienced. So for students who are interested in studying these types of subjects, you really can’t beat a place like MSU in Bozeman.
Established in 1893, the school was born out of competition. After Montana became an official state of the union, many cities battled it out to become the state capitol. Bozeman, where MSU is located, lost the title to the city of Helena. However, the state legislature decided to put the state’s land-grant college in Bozeman instead, thus making it the state’s educational capital.
MSU is, first and foremost, a research college. It spends around 100 million dollars annually on a variety of different research endeavors, and it’s not just in environmental studies. The school is also known for its research in areas like immunology, chemistry, physics, and transportation. All of this is impressive, but the coolest thing about this college is the motivation behind the research. MSU is widely known for being a school that focuses on fixing problems. It wants to inspire its students to help their communities with their education. It is incredibly committed to this mission and is one of only 51 colleges in the country that has been labeled to have “very high research activity” and a “significant commitment to community engagement” simultaneously.
The one thing that really struck me about this school was its ability to achieve excellence in so many different areas of study. For instance, it’s the only school in the world to offer a Master of Fine Arts degree in Science and Natural History Filmmaking. The school’s Space Science and Engineering Laboratory was one of few in the country to build and launch their own satellites into space through collaboration with NASA. Also, MSU’s Natural History Museum houses the largest T-Rex skull in the world!
MSU is like a lone flower in a vast snowy valley. It is a pop of color in the grey winter of our souls. Okay, okay, it’s just a really great school. For more info: www.montana.edu
Tisch School of the Arts, NYU
Tisch School of the Arts, NYU
February is the month of love, and when I think of love, I think of DRAMA. Okay, okay, I don’t mean drama in the “he didn’t call me” sort of way. I mean drama in the romantic, explorative, theatrical way. So this month, I want to focus on a school that excels in the art of educating in, well, the arts. Let’s draw a little heart around the Tisch School at NYU.
Located on Broadway in the heart of New York City, the Tisch School is known nationally for its rigorous acting curriculum. Tisch has produced some of this country’s finest actors such as Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Woody Allen, and Marcia Gay Harden. The school offers many different art programs ranging from photography to cinema studies to dance; however, its performance studies and B.F.A in Drama is what Tisch is most well known for.
Admission to the drama program is a two-part process that first requires admission into NYU, followed by a private artistic review/audition. I’m not going to lie – the school is selective. Nobody ever said love was easy. Once admitted, though, Tisch provides an unmatched education in the craft of acting. This school creates well-rounded, well-educated, courageous, and prepared artists who are ready to take on anything after graduation. So is the tough admission process worth it? Picture Renee Zellweger saying, “You complete me,” to Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, and you’ll have your answer.
The curriculum is based on four different components. The first, Professional Training, is a conservatory-style training program that revolves around mastering technique. Students are placed in one studio from a network of studios in New York, and they are schooled in that studio’s unique method, sometimes up to 45 hours per week. After two years, students’ professional training becomes even more focused with personalized options like study abroad and advanced training.
The second component of the program centers on general theater studies, which give students a more balanced and complete education of theater. The final two components of the drama degree are the general requirements and electives. These provide students with the opportunity to pursue a dual degree in a different subject or just gain a deeper understanding of their art. On top of these components, Tisch’s location in New York City offers students many unique opportunities to bring their art into the real world. Many students have agents and are already working professionally upon graduation.
This school is for the serious acting student only. It’s a school for someone who knows what he or she wants and is ready to commit. In other words, it’s not a silly fling; it’s true love in full force! For more information: www.drama.tisch.nyu.edu
February is the month of love, and when I think of love, I think of DRAMA. Okay, okay, I don’t mean drama in the “he didn’t call me” sort of way. I mean drama in the romantic, explorative, theatrical way. So this month, I want to focus on a school that excels in the art of educating in, well, the arts. Let’s draw a little heart around the Tisch School at NYU.
Located on Broadway in the heart of New York City, the Tisch School is known nationally for its rigorous acting curriculum. Tisch has produced some of this country’s finest actors such as Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Woody Allen, and Marcia Gay Harden. The school offers many different art programs ranging from photography to cinema studies to dance; however, its performance studies and B.F.A in Drama is what Tisch is most well known for.
Admission to the drama program is a two-part process that first requires admission into NYU, followed by a private artistic review/audition. I’m not going to lie – the school is selective. Nobody ever said love was easy. Once admitted, though, Tisch provides an unmatched education in the craft of acting. This school creates well-rounded, well-educated, courageous, and prepared artists who are ready to take on anything after graduation. So is the tough admission process worth it? Picture Renee Zellweger saying, “You complete me,” to Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, and you’ll have your answer.
The curriculum is based on four different components. The first, Professional Training, is a conservatory-style training program that revolves around mastering technique. Students are placed in one studio from a network of studios in New York, and they are schooled in that studio’s unique method, sometimes up to 45 hours per week. After two years, students’ professional training becomes even more focused with personalized options like study abroad and advanced training.
The second component of the program centers on general theater studies, which give students a more balanced and complete education of theater. The final two components of the drama degree are the general requirements and electives. These provide students with the opportunity to pursue a dual degree in a different subject or just gain a deeper understanding of their art. On top of these components, Tisch’s location in New York City offers students many unique opportunities to bring their art into the real world. Many students have agents and are already working professionally upon graduation.
This school is for the serious acting student only. It’s a school for someone who knows what he or she wants and is ready to commit. In other words, it’s not a silly fling; it’s true love in full force! For more information: www.drama.tisch.nyu.edu
Marlboro College
As an essay editor who has worked on hundreds of college essays, I often come across students who focus so much on writing essays they think colleges want to read that their own unique voices are lost. Don’t get me wrong, writing strong essays and working hard to get into college is important. But, choosing a college should be more like a really great first date. It’s not only about showing the college what you can bring to the table, but it’s also about finding a college that fits you. Is this going to be the right school for your temperament, your learning style, and your needs? Going to a large, prestigious college is an attractive option to a lot of teenagers, but the truth is, it’s not always right for everyone. Figuring out what kind of school fits your personality is the best way to ensure a successful experience for both you and your college.
So, this month, I’d like to talk about one school that is not for everyone. In fact, it’s only for about 300 people. Marlboro College is a very small, liberal arts school with an average student body of –you guessed it-300 students. Located in the small town of Marlboro, Vermont, this college exists for the student who wants a less structured environment, where personal accountability is law. The school adheres to a “self-governing” way of life, which means that students and faculty are collectively responsible for the school’s governance. Students are also responsible for the design and implementation of their own unique academic program or “Plan of Concentration.” This often results in an interdisciplinary schedule that focuses on the discovery and blend of that student’s very specific interests and needs.
One of the few course requirements at Marlboro College is the Clear Writing Requirement. Marlboro believes that a focus on clear thinking and clear writing is the foundation for any Plan of Concentration that the student will embark on, so as freshman and sophomores, students are required to submit diverse, academic writing portfolios each semester. After this, students are required to take at least one writing-intensive course each semester for the rest of their time at Marlboro. A focus on clear writing grounds every student’s course schedule at this school.
Another grounding feature of Marlboro is the amount of interaction that students get with the faculty. Because of its small student body, Marlboro faculty is able to spend an incredible amount of time personally interacting with their students. In a student’s first few years, discussion-based courses, advising sessions, and group projects facilitate collaborative relationships. Later, students are able to work with faculty to tackle their Plan of Concentration in its own, distinctive way
Let’s be honest: Marlboro is an academic challenge in the largest sense of the word. Some have said it is more demanding than any Ivy League school is, which is why it’s not for everyone. But it might be for you if you are a student who can handle the responsibility that comes with this type of freedom, who wants to be deeply involved in his or her education, and who, above all, values a small atmosphere focusing on writing and self-exploration. If I’ve peaked your interest, you can check out more about Marlboro here: www.marlboro.edu
So, this month, I’d like to talk about one school that is not for everyone. In fact, it’s only for about 300 people. Marlboro College is a very small, liberal arts school with an average student body of –you guessed it-300 students. Located in the small town of Marlboro, Vermont, this college exists for the student who wants a less structured environment, where personal accountability is law. The school adheres to a “self-governing” way of life, which means that students and faculty are collectively responsible for the school’s governance. Students are also responsible for the design and implementation of their own unique academic program or “Plan of Concentration.” This often results in an interdisciplinary schedule that focuses on the discovery and blend of that student’s very specific interests and needs.
One of the few course requirements at Marlboro College is the Clear Writing Requirement. Marlboro believes that a focus on clear thinking and clear writing is the foundation for any Plan of Concentration that the student will embark on, so as freshman and sophomores, students are required to submit diverse, academic writing portfolios each semester. After this, students are required to take at least one writing-intensive course each semester for the rest of their time at Marlboro. A focus on clear writing grounds every student’s course schedule at this school.
Another grounding feature of Marlboro is the amount of interaction that students get with the faculty. Because of its small student body, Marlboro faculty is able to spend an incredible amount of time personally interacting with their students. In a student’s first few years, discussion-based courses, advising sessions, and group projects facilitate collaborative relationships. Later, students are able to work with faculty to tackle their Plan of Concentration in its own, distinctive way
Let’s be honest: Marlboro is an academic challenge in the largest sense of the word. Some have said it is more demanding than any Ivy League school is, which is why it’s not for everyone. But it might be for you if you are a student who can handle the responsibility that comes with this type of freedom, who wants to be deeply involved in his or her education, and who, above all, values a small atmosphere focusing on writing and self-exploration. If I’ve peaked your interest, you can check out more about Marlboro here: www.marlboro.edu
Tulane University
When I think of New Orleans, I think of Mardi Gras- a time for festivities, dancing, indulging, and eccentricities. But it also represents a moment in time where we can lay it all out on the table; it’s a time to embrace our weaknesses and accept our misgivings. And once we’ve done all that, it’s a time for serious reflection and, most importantly, great change.
The fact that Tulane University resides in New Orleans is not a coincidence. This school has survived and thrived off of the idea that change and regeneration is necessary. Holding a mirror up to itself and embracing the flaws staring back is Tulane’s strength. The school understands the benefit of laying it all on the table. But, don’t get me wrong, they also like to have a good time.
Tulane has been a great school, and an ever-evolving one, since 1834. From its beginnings as the second medical university in the Deep South, to its transition to a larger, public institution, the University of Louisiana, in 1847, the school always evolved to succeed. When Tulane was privatized and renamed in 1884, it was already a leader in higher education and a symbol of evolution to its surrounding institutions.
After over a century of high times, however, Tulane was pushed on its side in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. The school was closed for the first time since the Civil War. Most students were relocated during the shut down, and Tulane incurred more than $650 million in damages. But Tulane dealt with the devastation in a way most institutions would not: it embraced it.
In December of 2005, Tulane announced its “Renewal Plan.” It decided to rethink the operations of the school by refocusing on a “student-centric” environment, where service-based learning was a priority. It became the first top research institution to implement required service credits for graduation. It also introduced the TIDES course, which is a required first-year, interdisciplinary seminar series. In short, Tulane took the disaster and used the lessons learned from it to guide their students into more altruistic, open-minded lives.
Today, Tulane is one of the nation’s top research universities. It is part of the highly regarded Association of American Universities, a group of 63 public and private institutions that are committed to research-based educations, and it has been recognized as a university with “very high research activity” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. It offers a very diverse spectrum of degrees, all with high accolades of their own.
Tulane’s spirit is strong, and its resolve to do better is ever-growing. For more information: http://tulane.edu/
The fact that Tulane University resides in New Orleans is not a coincidence. This school has survived and thrived off of the idea that change and regeneration is necessary. Holding a mirror up to itself and embracing the flaws staring back is Tulane’s strength. The school understands the benefit of laying it all on the table. But, don’t get me wrong, they also like to have a good time.
Tulane has been a great school, and an ever-evolving one, since 1834. From its beginnings as the second medical university in the Deep South, to its transition to a larger, public institution, the University of Louisiana, in 1847, the school always evolved to succeed. When Tulane was privatized and renamed in 1884, it was already a leader in higher education and a symbol of evolution to its surrounding institutions.
After over a century of high times, however, Tulane was pushed on its side in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. The school was closed for the first time since the Civil War. Most students were relocated during the shut down, and Tulane incurred more than $650 million in damages. But Tulane dealt with the devastation in a way most institutions would not: it embraced it.
In December of 2005, Tulane announced its “Renewal Plan.” It decided to rethink the operations of the school by refocusing on a “student-centric” environment, where service-based learning was a priority. It became the first top research institution to implement required service credits for graduation. It also introduced the TIDES course, which is a required first-year, interdisciplinary seminar series. In short, Tulane took the disaster and used the lessons learned from it to guide their students into more altruistic, open-minded lives.
Today, Tulane is one of the nation’s top research universities. It is part of the highly regarded Association of American Universities, a group of 63 public and private institutions that are committed to research-based educations, and it has been recognized as a university with “very high research activity” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. It offers a very diverse spectrum of degrees, all with high accolades of their own.
Tulane’s spirit is strong, and its resolve to do better is ever-growing. For more information: http://tulane.edu/
Austin College
When I think of Texas, I think of people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in order to get the job done and people who don’t shy away from a challenge. This month, we are talking about a school that encompasses these qualities, a school that embodies the Texas spirit through and through. Austin College’s campus is located in the small, quaint town of Sherman about an hour from Dallas, and is one of the most beautiful campuses in the state.
Austin College is a liberal arts school established in 1849 and has since gained a reputation for academic excellence, as well as being a member of the College That Change Lives consortium of colleges. The thing that I found over and over while researching this school was a constant reference, by many sources, to the school’s rigorous yet dynamic caliber of education. It is by far the best liberal arts college in Texas because it attracts students looking for that kind of dedication and focus from their four years in college. Austin College openly admits that classes are difficult and that its students need to work hard for their grades. As a result, Austin students rise to the occasion and are some of the most accomplished college kids you’ll find at any college in the country.
The school does everything it can to support those who are willing to put in the effort. As proof, class sizes are kept small and teachers are 100% committed to the success of their students. In fact, six Austin faculty members were recently named on The Princeton Review’s “The Best 300 Professors” list. In addition, students are assigned a faculty mentor during their freshman year. This mentor personally guides the student throughout their entire time at Austin offering advice, guiding course schedules, and being an overall source of support. Students are also required to live on campus for their first three years of school. With only 1,300 students on campus, you can see how this creates a small, close-knit feel community. Students work hard, but they do it with support, and I love that.
Austin wants its undergrads exploring the world, learning from experience, and giving back to their communities. The college’s study abroad program is highly regarded, with 70% of students participating in some kind of learning abroad. Austin students also collectively perform over 16,000 hours of volunteering each year.
All of this hard work certainly pays off. There are pages and pages of accolades that this school has received from all sorts of institutions and review boards. Its five-year Master of Arts in teaching program is nationally recognized. Many students go on to medical and law school with ease. And a five-year study has shown that 90% of students are employed or working towards higher degrees shortly after graduation.
Austin College looks for in its applicants produces well-educated professionals, ready to enter any career or personal situation with a good head on their shoulders and a “roll-up-your-sleeves” attitude. Not to mention, you’re within arms length of some great barbeque. For more information, visit: www.austincollege.edu.
Austin College is a liberal arts school established in 1849 and has since gained a reputation for academic excellence, as well as being a member of the College That Change Lives consortium of colleges. The thing that I found over and over while researching this school was a constant reference, by many sources, to the school’s rigorous yet dynamic caliber of education. It is by far the best liberal arts college in Texas because it attracts students looking for that kind of dedication and focus from their four years in college. Austin College openly admits that classes are difficult and that its students need to work hard for their grades. As a result, Austin students rise to the occasion and are some of the most accomplished college kids you’ll find at any college in the country.
The school does everything it can to support those who are willing to put in the effort. As proof, class sizes are kept small and teachers are 100% committed to the success of their students. In fact, six Austin faculty members were recently named on The Princeton Review’s “The Best 300 Professors” list. In addition, students are assigned a faculty mentor during their freshman year. This mentor personally guides the student throughout their entire time at Austin offering advice, guiding course schedules, and being an overall source of support. Students are also required to live on campus for their first three years of school. With only 1,300 students on campus, you can see how this creates a small, close-knit feel community. Students work hard, but they do it with support, and I love that.
Austin wants its undergrads exploring the world, learning from experience, and giving back to their communities. The college’s study abroad program is highly regarded, with 70% of students participating in some kind of learning abroad. Austin students also collectively perform over 16,000 hours of volunteering each year.
All of this hard work certainly pays off. There are pages and pages of accolades that this school has received from all sorts of institutions and review boards. Its five-year Master of Arts in teaching program is nationally recognized. Many students go on to medical and law school with ease. And a five-year study has shown that 90% of students are employed or working towards higher degrees shortly after graduation.
Austin College looks for in its applicants produces well-educated professionals, ready to enter any career or personal situation with a good head on their shoulders and a “roll-up-your-sleeves” attitude. Not to mention, you’re within arms length of some great barbeque. For more information, visit: www.austincollege.edu.
Monmouth College
What comes to mind when I mention the name Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks? Most people will say a little, redheaded orphan named Annie, and Oliver Warbucks brings forth an image that is strong, yet compassionate. He is worldly, yet focused. This month’s spotlight is about a school that is a lot like Oliver Warbucks not only in spirit, but also in location. The main hall of the school, Wilson Hall, is the actual setting for Warbucks’ mansion in the movie, “Annie.”
Founded in 1933, Monmouth University has focused on providing its students with a personalized education, while stressing the importance of global awareness and a tireless mentality towards civic duty. It concentrates on the small in order to inspire the big, and I love that logic. Monmouth U adamantly works to keep class sizes low and is committed to having no graduate students teaching undergraduate courses. They offer free tutoring and even writing assistance to anyone who wants it. Plus, the campus is situated in one of the most beautiful beach towns on the Jersey shore.
Monmouth is about the individual, but it’s also about global awareness. And there is nothing that proves that more than the college’s Six Centers of Distinction. These organizations provide students with an awareness of specific social, economic, and political issues and the opportunity for hands-on experiences that aim to improve them. For instance, at the Rapid Response Institute, students work with professors and even the government to invent new technologies that would help the country respond more efficiently to disasters and emergencies. The other centers range in topic from the improvement of art education to marine conservation. Monmouth wants its students to be active, purposeful citizens who use their degrees for more than just a paycheck. It’s not a surprise that some of the top majors at Monmouth are journalism, homeland security, and even firefighting.
The thing that I love most about this school, though, is that it creates a well-rounded environment. The college also knows how to have fun. There is an active Greek community, plenty of extra-curricular activities, art, theater, and a healthy dose of good ol’ American sports. It’s a Division 1 school in basketball, baseball, football, soccer, and many more. It’s also only an hour away from New York City and Philadelphia and one mile away from the beach. The opportunities for weekend trips, internships, and summer jobs are plentiful and varied.
Monmouth University will help you succeed by giving you the confidence and tools that work for you. In honor of Oliver Warbucks and the little orphan girl Annie, I’ll just say one more thing. Leapin’ lizards! Go check it out already! www.monmouth.edu
Founded in 1933, Monmouth University has focused on providing its students with a personalized education, while stressing the importance of global awareness and a tireless mentality towards civic duty. It concentrates on the small in order to inspire the big, and I love that logic. Monmouth U adamantly works to keep class sizes low and is committed to having no graduate students teaching undergraduate courses. They offer free tutoring and even writing assistance to anyone who wants it. Plus, the campus is situated in one of the most beautiful beach towns on the Jersey shore.
Monmouth is about the individual, but it’s also about global awareness. And there is nothing that proves that more than the college’s Six Centers of Distinction. These organizations provide students with an awareness of specific social, economic, and political issues and the opportunity for hands-on experiences that aim to improve them. For instance, at the Rapid Response Institute, students work with professors and even the government to invent new technologies that would help the country respond more efficiently to disasters and emergencies. The other centers range in topic from the improvement of art education to marine conservation. Monmouth wants its students to be active, purposeful citizens who use their degrees for more than just a paycheck. It’s not a surprise that some of the top majors at Monmouth are journalism, homeland security, and even firefighting.
The thing that I love most about this school, though, is that it creates a well-rounded environment. The college also knows how to have fun. There is an active Greek community, plenty of extra-curricular activities, art, theater, and a healthy dose of good ol’ American sports. It’s a Division 1 school in basketball, baseball, football, soccer, and many more. It’s also only an hour away from New York City and Philadelphia and one mile away from the beach. The opportunities for weekend trips, internships, and summer jobs are plentiful and varied.
Monmouth University will help you succeed by giving you the confidence and tools that work for you. In honor of Oliver Warbucks and the little orphan girl Annie, I’ll just say one more thing. Leapin’ lizards! Go check it out already! www.monmouth.edu
Hendrix College
Going to college is a wonderful but huge transition. You’re adjusting to a new way of life, learning new skills, and immersing yourself in a whole new group of people for the very first time. So, this month, we’re putting the spotlight on a school that embodies the spirit and tenacity that a big move like going away to college requires. It’s called Hendrix College, and it’s an institution that has literally grown out of life-changing transitions.
Hendrix College got its start as a primary school. One purchase, two mergers, and seven name-changes later, the college stands as it is today. But after growing pains, there always comes greater strength and wisdom, and that is exactly what happened to this school. Through struggle, it has figured out what works for students and what doesn’t. And as a result, it has been recognized by many organizations for its excellence, including Colleges That Change Lives. Recently, it was also named a top “up and coming” liberal arts school and was number 102 on Forbes’ “America’s Best Colleges” list. This institution has embraced the challenges that come with change and has come out on the other side with flying colors.
Students at Hendrix College are so open to evolution and change that they don’t even call their learning experience an education. They call it an Odyssey. Don’t you love the sound of that? Odyssey! Just as Odysseus set out on his bold journey, students at Hendrix are required to go on their own Odysseys by participating in three, self-proposed experiences that fall into one of six categories. Artistic Creativity, Global Awareness, and Service to the World are a few. Students propose, find funding for, and implement their own learning adventures throughout their time at Hendrix. They embark on their own journeys, hopefully minus the Cyclops.
Another cool aspect of this school is its special relationship with the country of Rwanda. Hendrix is all about experiencing the world and expanding the minds of its students. Keeping with this idea, it is the leader in an 18-school consortium that works with the Rwandan government. Together, they select and provide four-year educations to promising young people in Rwanda. But, the relationship goes both ways. Hendrix students are encouraged to study abroad or intern in Rwanda through the school’s partnership with the Rwandan School for International Training. Talk about an amazing adventure!
Hendrix College is as unique as they come and wants to shape students not just educationally, but also in the way that they approach their lives. At Hendrix, life is a puzzle; growth, experience, and adaptation are the key. For more information, visit: www.hendrix.edu/FutureStudents
Hendrix College got its start as a primary school. One purchase, two mergers, and seven name-changes later, the college stands as it is today. But after growing pains, there always comes greater strength and wisdom, and that is exactly what happened to this school. Through struggle, it has figured out what works for students and what doesn’t. And as a result, it has been recognized by many organizations for its excellence, including Colleges That Change Lives. Recently, it was also named a top “up and coming” liberal arts school and was number 102 on Forbes’ “America’s Best Colleges” list. This institution has embraced the challenges that come with change and has come out on the other side with flying colors.
Students at Hendrix College are so open to evolution and change that they don’t even call their learning experience an education. They call it an Odyssey. Don’t you love the sound of that? Odyssey! Just as Odysseus set out on his bold journey, students at Hendrix are required to go on their own Odysseys by participating in three, self-proposed experiences that fall into one of six categories. Artistic Creativity, Global Awareness, and Service to the World are a few. Students propose, find funding for, and implement their own learning adventures throughout their time at Hendrix. They embark on their own journeys, hopefully minus the Cyclops.
Another cool aspect of this school is its special relationship with the country of Rwanda. Hendrix is all about experiencing the world and expanding the minds of its students. Keeping with this idea, it is the leader in an 18-school consortium that works with the Rwandan government. Together, they select and provide four-year educations to promising young people in Rwanda. But, the relationship goes both ways. Hendrix students are encouraged to study abroad or intern in Rwanda through the school’s partnership with the Rwandan School for International Training. Talk about an amazing adventure!
Hendrix College is as unique as they come and wants to shape students not just educationally, but also in the way that they approach their lives. At Hendrix, life is a puzzle; growth, experience, and adaptation are the key. For more information, visit: www.hendrix.edu/FutureStudents
Colorado College
I have been out of college for seven years now, but I still have nightmares that I failed a class because I forgot to do an assignment or I missed an exam. I assume this means that I’m slightly neurotic and a total perfectionist, but I also still have these dreams because college can be an overwhelming time in someone’s life. Don’t get me wrong – college is amazing in almost every way, but parts of it are also pretty stressful and difficult. After all, there’s just so much going on all the time. So one of the reasons why I love this month’s spotlight school, Colorado College, is because it operates in a way that truly works to improve the students’ experience.
Colorado College follows a unique course calendar called the block schedule. Let me explain: instead of students taking three to four courses at a time, semesters are broken down into four, three and half week courses. Students take one course at a time, five days a week. Typically, the mornings are used for in-class learning, and afternoons include labs and subject-related outings. But class schedules are based mostly on the subject itself. For instance, an astronomy course may consist partly of night study-sessions, whereas a zoology course may take you early morning wildlife watching in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Colorado College started using this system in 1970 and it has been loyal to it ever since.
Spending a solid block of time on one subject eliminates some of the chaos that college can bring and really allows students to embrace subjects. For instance, there is no cramming for three different tests at one time or struggling through homework for several different courses. There are no scatter-brained mornings spent wondering if you’ve forgotten an assignment. Students have the time and brain space to learn and focus on one subject at a time.
Additionally, class sizes at Colorado College are small and learning is intimate. There are only around 2,000 undergrads attending the school at one time. Professors know their students by name; they know when their students are struggling, and when the students need to be pushed further. By creating this environment, Colorado College allows education to be a collaborative and expressive journey. Also, the block scheduling allows students to get to know their peers on a much deeper level. Students tackle the subjects together, allowing them to experiment and grow together as a cohort.
Colorado College also has a strong commitment to providing a liberal arts education, even recently ranking 28th on a list of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. It offers over 80 different majors and minors and a Masters of Arts degree in teaching. It also resides in an amazing location, just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, the Rocky Mountains, and many other national parks.
Colorado College really is a unique and inspiring school, and worth checking out if you are looking for a more intimate college experience. It may even help you avoid some nightmares eleven years down the road! For more information, go to http://www.coloradocollege.edu/.
Colorado College follows a unique course calendar called the block schedule. Let me explain: instead of students taking three to four courses at a time, semesters are broken down into four, three and half week courses. Students take one course at a time, five days a week. Typically, the mornings are used for in-class learning, and afternoons include labs and subject-related outings. But class schedules are based mostly on the subject itself. For instance, an astronomy course may consist partly of night study-sessions, whereas a zoology course may take you early morning wildlife watching in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Colorado College started using this system in 1970 and it has been loyal to it ever since.
Spending a solid block of time on one subject eliminates some of the chaos that college can bring and really allows students to embrace subjects. For instance, there is no cramming for three different tests at one time or struggling through homework for several different courses. There are no scatter-brained mornings spent wondering if you’ve forgotten an assignment. Students have the time and brain space to learn and focus on one subject at a time.
Additionally, class sizes at Colorado College are small and learning is intimate. There are only around 2,000 undergrads attending the school at one time. Professors know their students by name; they know when their students are struggling, and when the students need to be pushed further. By creating this environment, Colorado College allows education to be a collaborative and expressive journey. Also, the block scheduling allows students to get to know their peers on a much deeper level. Students tackle the subjects together, allowing them to experiment and grow together as a cohort.
Colorado College also has a strong commitment to providing a liberal arts education, even recently ranking 28th on a list of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. It offers over 80 different majors and minors and a Masters of Arts degree in teaching. It also resides in an amazing location, just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, the Rocky Mountains, and many other national parks.
Colorado College really is a unique and inspiring school, and worth checking out if you are looking for a more intimate college experience. It may even help you avoid some nightmares eleven years down the road! For more information, go to http://www.coloradocollege.edu/.
Smith College
Ladies, I’m just going to say what we’re all thinking: we are awesome, aren’t we? We’re smart, thoughtful, passionate, and full of determination towards our lives and goals. And I love the idea of a school that does everything it can to support those fantastic qualities. That brings me to this month’s spotlight.
Smith College was founded in 1871 by Sophia Smith, a woman who had big ideas for the education and advancement of her sex. In a time when women had few options for furthering their educations, Smith left her inheritance to create a school where women would have the exact same opportunities as men. That’s called gumption, ladies and gentlemen, GUMPTION. Since then, Smith College has continuously been dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and educating women from all over the world.
This is not the type of place where you will go and be taught “at.” Everything about the college’s mission and atmosphere exists to produce engaged, creative, and opinionated students. Class sizes are small, and the faculty is committed to cultivating environments full of discussion and discovery. The whole point of the college is to create independent but open thinkers who are always excited to consider new ideas and different points of views.
If you graduate from Smith College, you will definitely be in good company. Many famous thinkers, writers, feminists, entrepreneurs, musicians, and successful professionals graduated from Smith, some of the most notable being Julia Child, Sylvia Plath, and Gloria Steinem! That’s one impressive card to pull.
“Oh, you climbed Mount Everest? Gloria Steinem and I aced the same test. Top that!”
Not only is Smith College one of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation, but it is also the largest of the Seven Sisters, a network of well-known liberal arts schools for women. It is well known for so many of its academic programs and is the only women’s college to offer undergraduate degrees in engineering. On top of that, Smith is part of the Five Colleges consortium, meaning as part of this group, students are able to take classes and gain credit at any of the five schools involved, including Amherst, Hampshire, Mount
To learn more about Smith College and to find out if it’s the right fit for you, visit www.smith.edu for more information.
Smith College was founded in 1871 by Sophia Smith, a woman who had big ideas for the education and advancement of her sex. In a time when women had few options for furthering their educations, Smith left her inheritance to create a school where women would have the exact same opportunities as men. That’s called gumption, ladies and gentlemen, GUMPTION. Since then, Smith College has continuously been dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and educating women from all over the world.
This is not the type of place where you will go and be taught “at.” Everything about the college’s mission and atmosphere exists to produce engaged, creative, and opinionated students. Class sizes are small, and the faculty is committed to cultivating environments full of discussion and discovery. The whole point of the college is to create independent but open thinkers who are always excited to consider new ideas and different points of views.
If you graduate from Smith College, you will definitely be in good company. Many famous thinkers, writers, feminists, entrepreneurs, musicians, and successful professionals graduated from Smith, some of the most notable being Julia Child, Sylvia Plath, and Gloria Steinem! That’s one impressive card to pull.
“Oh, you climbed Mount Everest? Gloria Steinem and I aced the same test. Top that!”
Not only is Smith College one of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation, but it is also the largest of the Seven Sisters, a network of well-known liberal arts schools for women. It is well known for so many of its academic programs and is the only women’s college to offer undergraduate degrees in engineering. On top of that, Smith is part of the Five Colleges consortium, meaning as part of this group, students are able to take classes and gain credit at any of the five schools involved, including Amherst, Hampshire, Mount
To learn more about Smith College and to find out if it’s the right fit for you, visit www.smith.edu for more information.
The US Naval Academy
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Chicago is my kind of town. From its beautiful architecture to its picturesque lakefront, this city is one of the prettiest that exists. But, I know what you’re going to say: it’s cold. And, I concede, it is. But, this is college! You’re up for the challenge, and you know those two weeks in October when the leaves are starting to change and the weather is just crisp enough to pull out that cute jacket that you’ve been hoarding all year? Those two weeks are worth all of that bone-piercing coldness you might experience.
That said, there is so much more for you in Chicago than stylish clothing opportunities. There is also Northwestern University. NU lives in a small suburb just outside of Chicago called Evanston, Illinois. But with a just short train ride on the Red Line of the city’s “L” train system, you get to experience everything wonderful about living in Chicago, while still feeling like you are part of a small, college town. This private school has three campuses – its main campus of 240 acres, a mini campus in the city of Chicago itself, and its recently opened satellite campus in Doha, Qatar. It also is home to just under 20,000 students from all over the world.
Northwestern is known for its excellence in many areas. Its schools of journalism, management, engineering, and communication, for example, are just some programs that have been consistently recognized on a national level. It is also one of the largest research universities in the whole country, with a research endowment of around 7.1 billion last year. That’s right, I said BILLION.
You would also never think that a university located in such a cold city would be known for being green, but Northwestern is… in a manner of speaking. Since 2009, it has been part of the Green Power Partnership’s top 10 list for universities that purchase energy from renewable sources. On top of committing to its own sustainability, the school is very dedicated to researching and teaching green living to others with their Initiative for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern program. These days, many students are choosing to attend schools that put an emphasis on being environmentally conscious, and Northwestern has emerged as one of the best options.
If you’re concerned that attending a private university might limit your college sports and activity experiences, don’t worry. Northwestern has you covered. As one of its founding members, Northwestern remains as the only private school to be apart of the Big 10 Conference. With 19 athletic teams, several national championship titles, and many postseason appearances, students are not denied anything to cheer for.
So if you think that you can take on the challenge of being a little bit (excruciatingly) cold once in awhile (eight months out of the year), Northwestern and the city of Chicago will not disappoint you. (It’s really not that bad.) For more information go to: http://www.northwestern.edu/
That said, there is so much more for you in Chicago than stylish clothing opportunities. There is also Northwestern University. NU lives in a small suburb just outside of Chicago called Evanston, Illinois. But with a just short train ride on the Red Line of the city’s “L” train system, you get to experience everything wonderful about living in Chicago, while still feeling like you are part of a small, college town. This private school has three campuses – its main campus of 240 acres, a mini campus in the city of Chicago itself, and its recently opened satellite campus in Doha, Qatar. It also is home to just under 20,000 students from all over the world.
Northwestern is known for its excellence in many areas. Its schools of journalism, management, engineering, and communication, for example, are just some programs that have been consistently recognized on a national level. It is also one of the largest research universities in the whole country, with a research endowment of around 7.1 billion last year. That’s right, I said BILLION.
You would also never think that a university located in such a cold city would be known for being green, but Northwestern is… in a manner of speaking. Since 2009, it has been part of the Green Power Partnership’s top 10 list for universities that purchase energy from renewable sources. On top of committing to its own sustainability, the school is very dedicated to researching and teaching green living to others with their Initiative for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern program. These days, many students are choosing to attend schools that put an emphasis on being environmentally conscious, and Northwestern has emerged as one of the best options.
If you’re concerned that attending a private university might limit your college sports and activity experiences, don’t worry. Northwestern has you covered. As one of its founding members, Northwestern remains as the only private school to be apart of the Big 10 Conference. With 19 athletic teams, several national championship titles, and many postseason appearances, students are not denied anything to cheer for.
So if you think that you can take on the challenge of being a little bit (excruciatingly) cold once in awhile (eight months out of the year), Northwestern and the city of Chicago will not disappoint you. (It’s really not that bad.) For more information go to: http://www.northwestern.edu/
Northwestern University
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Chicago is my kind of town. From its beautiful architecture to its picturesque lakefront, this city is one of the prettiest that exists. But, I know what you’re going to say: it’s cold. And, I concede, it is. But, this is college! You’re up for the challenge, and you know those two weeks in October when the leaves are starting to change and the weather is just crisp enough to pull out that cute jacket that you’ve been hoarding all year? Those two weeks are worth all of that bone-piercing coldness you might experience.
That said, there is so much more for you in Chicago than stylish clothing opportunities. There is also Northwestern University. NU lives in a small suburb just outside of Chicago called Evanston, Illinois. But with a just short train ride on the Red Line of the city’s “L” train system, you get to experience everything wonderful about living in Chicago, while still feeling like you are part of a small, college town. This private school has three campuses – its main campus of 240 acres, a mini campus in the city of Chicago itself, and its recently opened satellite campus in Doha, Qatar. It also is home to just under 20,000 students from all over the world.
Northwestern is known for its excellence in many areas. Its schools of journalism, management, engineering, and communication, for example, are just some programs that have been consistently recognized on a national level. It is also one of the largest research universities in the whole country, with a research endowment of around 7.1 billion last year. That’s right, I said BILLION.
You would also never think that a university located in such a cold city would be known for being green, but Northwestern is… in a manner of speaking. Since 2009, it has been part of the Green Power Partnership’s top 10 list for universities that purchase energy from renewable sources. On top of committing to its own sustainability, the school is very dedicated to researching and teaching green living to others with their Initiative for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern program. These days, many students are choosing to attend schools that put an emphasis on being environmentally conscious, and Northwestern has emerged as one of the best options.
If you’re concerned that attending a private university might limit your college sports and activity experiences, don’t worry. Northwestern has you covered. As one of its founding members, Northwestern remains as the only private school to be apart of the Big 10 Conference. With 19 athletic teams, several national championship titles, and many postseason appearances, students are not denied anything to cheer for.
So if you think that you can take on the challenge of being a little bit (excruciatingly) cold once in awhile (eight months out of the year), Northwestern and the city of Chicago will not disappoint you. (It’s really not that bad.) For more information go to: http://www.northwestern.edu/
That said, there is so much more for you in Chicago than stylish clothing opportunities. There is also Northwestern University. NU lives in a small suburb just outside of Chicago called Evanston, Illinois. But with a just short train ride on the Red Line of the city’s “L” train system, you get to experience everything wonderful about living in Chicago, while still feeling like you are part of a small, college town. This private school has three campuses – its main campus of 240 acres, a mini campus in the city of Chicago itself, and its recently opened satellite campus in Doha, Qatar. It also is home to just under 20,000 students from all over the world.
Northwestern is known for its excellence in many areas. Its schools of journalism, management, engineering, and communication, for example, are just some programs that have been consistently recognized on a national level. It is also one of the largest research universities in the whole country, with a research endowment of around 7.1 billion last year. That’s right, I said BILLION.
You would also never think that a university located in such a cold city would be known for being green, but Northwestern is… in a manner of speaking. Since 2009, it has been part of the Green Power Partnership’s top 10 list for universities that purchase energy from renewable sources. On top of committing to its own sustainability, the school is very dedicated to researching and teaching green living to others with their Initiative for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern program. These days, many students are choosing to attend schools that put an emphasis on being environmentally conscious, and Northwestern has emerged as one of the best options.
If you’re concerned that attending a private university might limit your college sports and activity experiences, don’t worry. Northwestern has you covered. As one of its founding members, Northwestern remains as the only private school to be apart of the Big 10 Conference. With 19 athletic teams, several national championship titles, and many postseason appearances, students are not denied anything to cheer for.
So if you think that you can take on the challenge of being a little bit (excruciatingly) cold once in awhile (eight months out of the year), Northwestern and the city of Chicago will not disappoint you. (It’s really not that bad.) For more information go to: http://www.northwestern.edu/
Auburn University
Close your eyes and imagine that every time you hear the song Sweet Home Alabama playing on the radio, you would actually be HOME in ALABAMA! It’d be fantastic, I know. And, I have a way that will not only make that vision a reality, but it will also provide the opportunity for an amazing education!
Auburn University in Alabama is a school rich with history, educational recognition, and good ole’ southern soul. With an active Greek community, a leading and spirited sports program, and age-old traditions, it’s the kind of college for the student who wants the full college experience. And with over 1,800 acres of campus and 25,000 students, it is easy to immerse yourself in Auburn life.
In true southern spirit, the school is nationally known for its excellence in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. In 1896, a professor at the school even created the first-ever rotation crop, which revolutionized the way nutrients are rebuilt into the soil throughout the seasons. Due to his experiment, the same 1-acre crop that he started is still continuously growing product today and is known on campus as The Old Rotation.
But, I think that the most interesting part about this southern school is its affinity for the things that lie way up high. Auburn is known for its incredible aerospace and aviation engineering programs. In fact, six astronauts have graduated from the school, as well as two directors of the Kennedy Space Center. And hundreds of engineering and science graduates have worked for NASA. There is also a student space program, where students learn to engineer, build, fly, and study spacecrafts. Talk about impressive!
Auburn is also a Division I-A school and part of the Southeastern Conference. With a highly recognized sports program and accolades ranging from football titles to equestrian championships, the student body is definitely centered on school spirit. Whether it is yelling out the fight song during a game or just wearing the school’s colors of orange and blue to class, students do not shy away from showing their pride. I even read that on game days, the football stadium technically becomes the 5th largest city in Alabama! Now that’s spirit.
Auburn is a fun school with a lot of personality. If you think that you might be just the southern lady or gentleman (at heart) to apply, check out more info at: http://www.auburn.edu/.
Auburn University in Alabama is a school rich with history, educational recognition, and good ole’ southern soul. With an active Greek community, a leading and spirited sports program, and age-old traditions, it’s the kind of college for the student who wants the full college experience. And with over 1,800 acres of campus and 25,000 students, it is easy to immerse yourself in Auburn life.
In true southern spirit, the school is nationally known for its excellence in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. In 1896, a professor at the school even created the first-ever rotation crop, which revolutionized the way nutrients are rebuilt into the soil throughout the seasons. Due to his experiment, the same 1-acre crop that he started is still continuously growing product today and is known on campus as The Old Rotation.
But, I think that the most interesting part about this southern school is its affinity for the things that lie way up high. Auburn is known for its incredible aerospace and aviation engineering programs. In fact, six astronauts have graduated from the school, as well as two directors of the Kennedy Space Center. And hundreds of engineering and science graduates have worked for NASA. There is also a student space program, where students learn to engineer, build, fly, and study spacecrafts. Talk about impressive!
Auburn is also a Division I-A school and part of the Southeastern Conference. With a highly recognized sports program and accolades ranging from football titles to equestrian championships, the student body is definitely centered on school spirit. Whether it is yelling out the fight song during a game or just wearing the school’s colors of orange and blue to class, students do not shy away from showing their pride. I even read that on game days, the football stadium technically becomes the 5th largest city in Alabama! Now that’s spirit.
Auburn is a fun school with a lot of personality. If you think that you might be just the southern lady or gentleman (at heart) to apply, check out more info at: http://www.auburn.edu/.
Kalamazoo College
Established in 1833, Kalamazoo College is one of the oldest institutions in this history of our country. So you could say that they’ve had some time to get this whole higher education thing down pat. Located in the small town of (you guessed it) Kalamazoo, Michigan, the school is nationally known for producing students who are incredibly well-rounded, engaged, and equipped for the real world. How do they do it, you ask? They do it with a little thing they call the Kalamazoo-Plan.
The first part of the K-Plan is all about choices. Kalamazoo believes in a wide-ranged liberal arts education. They don’t want you to feel restricted to one subject from the moment that you walk into the door. They want you to explore lots of different subjects and careers, which is why the curriculum is flexible for each student’s needs. Kalamazoo believes in an education in and out of the classroom, so students are encouraged to add to their curriculum through community involvement, volunteering, and participating in unconventional classes.
The school is also one of the top leaders for study abroad education in the nation, which is the next part of the K-Plan. In fact, a staggering 85% of students who attend Kalamazoo take part in a study abroad program of some sort. Kalamazoo also encourages students to participate in internships and externships – a unique program where you can live and work out-of-state with an alumni host family. This provides a truly immersed experience and future career networks for after graduation.
In a student’s senior year, the lessons and experiences of the K-Plan all come together in what is known as a SIP. A Senior Individualize Project is much like a thesis project, in that students are allowed to choose a topic to do one final research project on. Projects can be presented in writing, performance, exhibition, or any other medium that a student desires. Promoting and encouraging student’s independent work is just one last thing that Kalamazoo does to prepare its graduates for the real world.
So, if you can see your college experience taking place in more diverse settings than just on campus, Kalamazoo might be right for you. It is the perfect school for the adventurer and inquisitor – the student who wants to learn about more than just math and science. It’s for the student who wants to learn about the world. And, if that doesn’t convince you; how about this: by attending, you’d also have a reason to say the word “Kalamazoo” quite often. That, alone, is a win in my book. For more information go to: http://www.kzoo.edu/
The first part of the K-Plan is all about choices. Kalamazoo believes in a wide-ranged liberal arts education. They don’t want you to feel restricted to one subject from the moment that you walk into the door. They want you to explore lots of different subjects and careers, which is why the curriculum is flexible for each student’s needs. Kalamazoo believes in an education in and out of the classroom, so students are encouraged to add to their curriculum through community involvement, volunteering, and participating in unconventional classes.
The school is also one of the top leaders for study abroad education in the nation, which is the next part of the K-Plan. In fact, a staggering 85% of students who attend Kalamazoo take part in a study abroad program of some sort. Kalamazoo also encourages students to participate in internships and externships – a unique program where you can live and work out-of-state with an alumni host family. This provides a truly immersed experience and future career networks for after graduation.
In a student’s senior year, the lessons and experiences of the K-Plan all come together in what is known as a SIP. A Senior Individualize Project is much like a thesis project, in that students are allowed to choose a topic to do one final research project on. Projects can be presented in writing, performance, exhibition, or any other medium that a student desires. Promoting and encouraging student’s independent work is just one last thing that Kalamazoo does to prepare its graduates for the real world.
So, if you can see your college experience taking place in more diverse settings than just on campus, Kalamazoo might be right for you. It is the perfect school for the adventurer and inquisitor – the student who wants to learn about more than just math and science. It’s for the student who wants to learn about the world. And, if that doesn’t convince you; how about this: by attending, you’d also have a reason to say the word “Kalamazoo” quite often. That, alone, is a win in my book. For more information go to: http://www.kzoo.edu/
University of Indiana
As a former Chicagoan, the Midwest is as near and dear to my heart as chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream (which, for the record, is pretty high on the near and dear chart). I love the people; I love the seasons; and more than anything, I love the laid-back, happy culture. And now, I have one more thing to love – Indiana University and its main campus in the small college town of Bloomington, Indiana.
The Midwest is full of big cities with small town values. In turn, IU Bloomington is a large school with small school heart. Yes, it does consist of just over 40,000 students, but don’t let that scare you away. The small city of Bloomington creates the perfect college town atmosphere for students to become completely immersed in their studies, activities, sports, and social outings. There are so many experiences to choose from that you’re guaranteed to find a close group to become a part of, no matter what your interests. And if the people alone don’t make you feel all warm and cozy inside, just wait for the gorgeous Indiana fall weather to change the colors on all 1,933 acres of campus greenery.
IU Bloomington offers 180 different majors and 330 degree programs. It is the home of the Kelly School of Business, which, remarkably, holds a top 20 ranking for every single undergraduate and gradate program in the school (US News & World Report). It is one of only three business schools to hold that record. IU Bloomington’s Jacob’s School of Music has tied Julliard and Eastman School of Music in the past for the #1 ranking in the nation, which is not too shabby. And if none of that impresses you, it is also the only college in the entire nation to offer a major in Hungarian.
IU Bloomington is also part of the Big Ten Conference – which means BIG things in sports. But, don’t think that IU could ever be intimidated by the word BIG. They’ve just slapped on that small-town, Midwestern smile and won 24 national team titles, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and diving. Not to mention the 132 other individual NCAA titles won by students!
So if you are ready for a little Midwestern hospitality, check out more at: www.iub.edu. And don’t forget to stop by Mother Bear’s Pizza when you’re in town for a visit!
The Midwest is full of big cities with small town values. In turn, IU Bloomington is a large school with small school heart. Yes, it does consist of just over 40,000 students, but don’t let that scare you away. The small city of Bloomington creates the perfect college town atmosphere for students to become completely immersed in their studies, activities, sports, and social outings. There are so many experiences to choose from that you’re guaranteed to find a close group to become a part of, no matter what your interests. And if the people alone don’t make you feel all warm and cozy inside, just wait for the gorgeous Indiana fall weather to change the colors on all 1,933 acres of campus greenery.
IU Bloomington offers 180 different majors and 330 degree programs. It is the home of the Kelly School of Business, which, remarkably, holds a top 20 ranking for every single undergraduate and gradate program in the school (US News & World Report). It is one of only three business schools to hold that record. IU Bloomington’s Jacob’s School of Music has tied Julliard and Eastman School of Music in the past for the #1 ranking in the nation, which is not too shabby. And if none of that impresses you, it is also the only college in the entire nation to offer a major in Hungarian.
IU Bloomington is also part of the Big Ten Conference – which means BIG things in sports. But, don’t think that IU could ever be intimidated by the word BIG. They’ve just slapped on that small-town, Midwestern smile and won 24 national team titles, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and diving. Not to mention the 132 other individual NCAA titles won by students!
So if you are ready for a little Midwestern hospitality, check out more at: www.iub.edu. And don’t forget to stop by Mother Bear’s Pizza when you’re in town for a visit!
University of Tennessee
When I think of the University of Tennessee, only one word really ever comes to mind – football. As someone who attended another SEC school, it’s hard for me to see much past an opposing school’s sports program. However, the more research I did on the University of Tennessee, the more I realized that “exceeding expectations” is exactly what this school is all about. So, yes, we all know that the Volunteers can play a great game of football, and being a student on campus means you’ll get that traditional “rah-rah” college experience, but I want to tell you about the things you may not know about this amazing school.
UT was established in Knoxville in 1794, two years before Tennessee was even an official state, making it one of the oldest public institutions in the country. How’s that for forging the path? It was originally named Blount College and closed down three times before reopening as the University of Tennessee. Each time it faced extinction, this university overcame the odds and ended up becoming stronger because of it. It is safe to say that this school has had the time and experience to get it right.
The most interesting thing that I learned about UT was its contributions to the world of science. Tennessee is one of only five sun-grant universities in the US, meaning that UT receives a government grant for its work researching and discovering alternate, environmentally friendly, and sustainable energy. In fact, the United States Department of Energy has named UT’s School of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources as having the “best local clean fuels program in America.” So, if you’re a future scientist who dreams of clean emissions and hydrogen-fueled cars, you can’t really find a better place to start your education than in Knoxville.
However, if the sciences that you’re interested in are more computers and space than hybrids and wind, UT has lot to offer you as well. Not only does the school harbor the most powerful educational super computer in the country, but it also is a participant in the Open Science Grid, which contributes to the evaluation of data from the groundbreaking Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland. It is also the teaching home of the world’s leading expert in meteorites and many other nationally and internationally recognized educators. Who knew all of that old-school, southern charm would produce such new-age, technological achievement!?
So, of course, the University of Tennessee has an amazing sports program. It has all of the clubs, activities, and Greek life that you’d expect from a large public university. But, if you really want to know what this school is about, expect the unexpected. Because that is really what UT is all about!
http://admissions.utk.edu/undergraduate
UT was established in Knoxville in 1794, two years before Tennessee was even an official state, making it one of the oldest public institutions in the country. How’s that for forging the path? It was originally named Blount College and closed down three times before reopening as the University of Tennessee. Each time it faced extinction, this university overcame the odds and ended up becoming stronger because of it. It is safe to say that this school has had the time and experience to get it right.
The most interesting thing that I learned about UT was its contributions to the world of science. Tennessee is one of only five sun-grant universities in the US, meaning that UT receives a government grant for its work researching and discovering alternate, environmentally friendly, and sustainable energy. In fact, the United States Department of Energy has named UT’s School of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources as having the “best local clean fuels program in America.” So, if you’re a future scientist who dreams of clean emissions and hydrogen-fueled cars, you can’t really find a better place to start your education than in Knoxville.
However, if the sciences that you’re interested in are more computers and space than hybrids and wind, UT has lot to offer you as well. Not only does the school harbor the most powerful educational super computer in the country, but it also is a participant in the Open Science Grid, which contributes to the evaluation of data from the groundbreaking Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland. It is also the teaching home of the world’s leading expert in meteorites and many other nationally and internationally recognized educators. Who knew all of that old-school, southern charm would produce such new-age, technological achievement!?
So, of course, the University of Tennessee has an amazing sports program. It has all of the clubs, activities, and Greek life that you’d expect from a large public university. But, if you really want to know what this school is about, expect the unexpected. Because that is really what UT is all about!
http://admissions.utk.edu/undergraduate
University of Puget Sound
College means many different things to students. Sometimes, it represents a time and a place to explore your interests, a chance to experience new environments, or an opportunity to immerse yourself into other cultures. Other times, it represents parties, fraternities, and sororities. If it happens to mean all of these things to you, you should probably read on.
The University of Puget Sound has been described as a “bright spot on the map of American higher education.” Located in Tacoma, Washington, the University is highly selective and highly regarded. Educationally, it is one of the top liberal arts schools in the Pacific Northwest. According to the National Opinion Research Center, it is the number one baccalaureate college in Washington State for producing graduates who go on to earn doctoral degrees. It has many amazing undergrad programs – music and Asian-studies, to name a few. And it has also been ranked twice as one of the top 20 colleges with the “Most Accessible Faculty,” in The Princeton Review.
We also like Puget Sound because it’s a school that teaches its students about the importance of having a global outlook. The study-abroad program is a popular addition to curriculum, with more than 40% of students studying in over 40 different countries. It is especially worth consideration for students interested in studying subjects relating to or revolving around Asia, as the school has close ties to the continent. And although the university is relatively small with around 2,600 students, it is rich with diversity. 44 states and 16 countries are represented in the student population.
Living in Tacoma and on the Puget Sound campus is an experience that you’d have a hard time replicating at other schools. For instance, the dorms and campus houses are actually themed by interest and course study (ex: the Humanities House) in order to connect learning with living. Students are immersed in their interests on a constant basis. The beautiful scenery that surrounds the school is also not lost on its faculty or students. The nearby Cascade and Olympic Mountains, Pacific Ocean, and national parks inspire an abundance of outdoor programs and classes. The school also has a ton of social activities including academic clubs, sports, and a small Greek system.
So if you want to attend a school that is small but global, diverse but focused, and FUN, you should visit Puget Sound’s website and learn more! www.pugetsound.edu
The University of Puget Sound has been described as a “bright spot on the map of American higher education.” Located in Tacoma, Washington, the University is highly selective and highly regarded. Educationally, it is one of the top liberal arts schools in the Pacific Northwest. According to the National Opinion Research Center, it is the number one baccalaureate college in Washington State for producing graduates who go on to earn doctoral degrees. It has many amazing undergrad programs – music and Asian-studies, to name a few. And it has also been ranked twice as one of the top 20 colleges with the “Most Accessible Faculty,” in The Princeton Review.
We also like Puget Sound because it’s a school that teaches its students about the importance of having a global outlook. The study-abroad program is a popular addition to curriculum, with more than 40% of students studying in over 40 different countries. It is especially worth consideration for students interested in studying subjects relating to or revolving around Asia, as the school has close ties to the continent. And although the university is relatively small with around 2,600 students, it is rich with diversity. 44 states and 16 countries are represented in the student population.
Living in Tacoma and on the Puget Sound campus is an experience that you’d have a hard time replicating at other schools. For instance, the dorms and campus houses are actually themed by interest and course study (ex: the Humanities House) in order to connect learning with living. Students are immersed in their interests on a constant basis. The beautiful scenery that surrounds the school is also not lost on its faculty or students. The nearby Cascade and Olympic Mountains, Pacific Ocean, and national parks inspire an abundance of outdoor programs and classes. The school also has a ton of social activities including academic clubs, sports, and a small Greek system.
So if you want to attend a school that is small but global, diverse but focused, and FUN, you should visit Puget Sound’s website and learn more! www.pugetsound.edu
Lawrence University
If the only thing I had to tell you about Lawrence University was that it resided in a city in Wisconsin called Appleton, it should be enough to convince you to print out an application right now. Appleton!? The name is so cute, I want to embroider it onto a pillow and hug it. But amazingly, I have even more to tell you – much, much more. For example, two of the seniors from our Los Angeles office will be attending Lawrence in the fall. You want even more information? You got it.
Lawrence University is a small liberal arts university, and sits picturesquely on the banks of the historic Fox River. In fact, the river runs through parts of campus and you’ll see students sitting by it doing homework when the weather permits. With fewer than 1,500 students, the school provides an intimate and comfortable setting for students to focus on their studies. However, Appleton’s location also gives students a chance to travel to bigger settings if desired: it’s only a couple hours from Milwaukee and Madison, and only a three hour drive from Chicago.
Academics at Lawrence are very hands-on. The school emphasizes personal choice and personal responsibility within its courses of study. Students have an abundance of opportunity to create and shape their own curriculum through independent study and one-on-one tutorials with professors. The school prides itself on the fact that, last year, nearly two-thirds of the university’s classes had just one student enrolled. Not only is personal accountability encouraged while choosing classes, it is also emphasized while attending classes. Lawrence’s Honor Code is so respected that, often, professors prefer take-home exams to in-class ones.
Lawrence is highly regarded in many areas and subjects (It was ranked as the top school in Wisconsin by Forbes in 2012.), but I think the most unique part of the school is its Conservatory of Music. Around 25% of students are enrolled in the conservatory and can participate in anything from choir to jazz bands to the school’s orchestra. Lawrence promotes a belief that music students are best served with a strong liberal arts education, in addition to their music education. Therefore, it uniquely offers a 5 year, dual degree program, where students can earn a degree in music as well as one other non-musical subject.
If you’d like more information about Lawrence or just want to see the word Appleton again, check out more at their website! www.lawrence.edu
Lawrence University is a small liberal arts university, and sits picturesquely on the banks of the historic Fox River. In fact, the river runs through parts of campus and you’ll see students sitting by it doing homework when the weather permits. With fewer than 1,500 students, the school provides an intimate and comfortable setting for students to focus on their studies. However, Appleton’s location also gives students a chance to travel to bigger settings if desired: it’s only a couple hours from Milwaukee and Madison, and only a three hour drive from Chicago.
Academics at Lawrence are very hands-on. The school emphasizes personal choice and personal responsibility within its courses of study. Students have an abundance of opportunity to create and shape their own curriculum through independent study and one-on-one tutorials with professors. The school prides itself on the fact that, last year, nearly two-thirds of the university’s classes had just one student enrolled. Not only is personal accountability encouraged while choosing classes, it is also emphasized while attending classes. Lawrence’s Honor Code is so respected that, often, professors prefer take-home exams to in-class ones.
Lawrence is highly regarded in many areas and subjects (It was ranked as the top school in Wisconsin by Forbes in 2012.), but I think the most unique part of the school is its Conservatory of Music. Around 25% of students are enrolled in the conservatory and can participate in anything from choir to jazz bands to the school’s orchestra. Lawrence promotes a belief that music students are best served with a strong liberal arts education, in addition to their music education. Therefore, it uniquely offers a 5 year, dual degree program, where students can earn a degree in music as well as one other non-musical subject.
If you’d like more information about Lawrence or just want to see the word Appleton again, check out more at their website! www.lawrence.edu
Deep Springs College
So, maybe you aren’t a student who is looking for the typical college experience. Maybe football games and lecture halls just don’t excite you the way that they do some of your peers. But, I have two words for you that may just get your college excitement wheels spinning. Ready? Cowboy scholar.
That’s right. I said cowboy scholar. And if you are the kind of person who thinks cowboy hats are way cooler than letterman jackets, Deep Springs College in Big Pine, California may be the perfect place for you.
This college is, quite possibly, the most interesting school I’ve ever come across. Deep Springs College is not just a liberal arts college; it is also a cattle ranch and an alfalfa-farm. And the 26 students who attend each year are not just students; they are ranchers and farmers. Founder L.L. Nunn created this school in 1917 and centered its curriculum on three core “pillars” which he deemed important for any young adult’s education: academics, labor, and self-governance.
The daily life of a Deep Springs student is quite different from a normal college student’s experience. It can consist of discussion-based seminars, farm work, baking, poetry readings, stargazing sessions and so much more. The only required courses are public speaking and composition. The school strongly believes in a student’s proficiency in both written and oral communication. It is also required that students work on the ranch every day. All other courses are based around the student’s interest.
Students and professors all live and work on the ranch, and professors take a far more hands-on approach than a normal university professor would. For instance, the school’s website states that, “It is traditional for professors to leave their porch lights on in the evenings, an invitation for students to visit them at home.” Students gain their education through one-on-one interactions, small interactive group sessions, and individual exploration.
The coolest thing about this unique two-year school is that virtually all of the students who graduate end up transferring to highly selective institutions. Over the last ten years, Harvard, University of Chicago, Yale, and Brown have been where most Deep Springs students end up.
There honestly isn’t enough room on this page for me to do this school justice. Now, I do have to warn you, right now the school only admits men. However, Deep Springs has announced on their website that they are currently working hard to become a coeducational facility in the near future. Hooray!
So if you feel that there is a cowboy (or girl) inside of you, just begging to come out, visit Deep Spring’s website and check out more about this awesome college: http://www.deepsprings.edu/home
That’s right. I said cowboy scholar. And if you are the kind of person who thinks cowboy hats are way cooler than letterman jackets, Deep Springs College in Big Pine, California may be the perfect place for you.
This college is, quite possibly, the most interesting school I’ve ever come across. Deep Springs College is not just a liberal arts college; it is also a cattle ranch and an alfalfa-farm. And the 26 students who attend each year are not just students; they are ranchers and farmers. Founder L.L. Nunn created this school in 1917 and centered its curriculum on three core “pillars” which he deemed important for any young adult’s education: academics, labor, and self-governance.
The daily life of a Deep Springs student is quite different from a normal college student’s experience. It can consist of discussion-based seminars, farm work, baking, poetry readings, stargazing sessions and so much more. The only required courses are public speaking and composition. The school strongly believes in a student’s proficiency in both written and oral communication. It is also required that students work on the ranch every day. All other courses are based around the student’s interest.
Students and professors all live and work on the ranch, and professors take a far more hands-on approach than a normal university professor would. For instance, the school’s website states that, “It is traditional for professors to leave their porch lights on in the evenings, an invitation for students to visit them at home.” Students gain their education through one-on-one interactions, small interactive group sessions, and individual exploration.
The coolest thing about this unique two-year school is that virtually all of the students who graduate end up transferring to highly selective institutions. Over the last ten years, Harvard, University of Chicago, Yale, and Brown have been where most Deep Springs students end up.
There honestly isn’t enough room on this page for me to do this school justice. Now, I do have to warn you, right now the school only admits men. However, Deep Springs has announced on their website that they are currently working hard to become a coeducational facility in the near future. Hooray!
So if you feel that there is a cowboy (or girl) inside of you, just begging to come out, visit Deep Spring’s website and check out more about this awesome college: http://www.deepsprings.edu/home
Occidental College
Occidental College is sometimes overlooked in Los Angeles in favor of schools like UCLA and USC, but it’s really a hidden gem: a liberal arts school located right here in the city. In its own words, Oxy is “a place of intimate scale and infinite scope,” and I don’t think there could be a more accurate description of what this university stands for. Known for its highly regarded professors and degree programs, Occidental is a quiet but powerful force in the academic community.
Occidental’s beautiful Mediterranean style campus is thrives in Eagle Rock, California, and is just eight miles from downtown Los Angeles. The student body is small, with just over two thousand undergrads in attendance. Students are required to live on campus for their first three years, which gives them a chance to really become comfortable and work closely with their peers. This close-knit community isn’t an accident; it’s something that Oxy students and professors are really proud of.
Despite its close-knit campus, Oxy puts a large emphasis on community involvement and global education. And with downtown Los Angeles just a few miles away, small and cozy goes right out of the window whenever desired. Not only can students participate in the booming day and night life of the city, but the opportunities for research, creativity, internships, and experiences in their fields are also endless.
The college is known for its Core Program, which was designed to help students achieve a more well-rounded liberal arts education. Students are required to accomplish certain goals throughout their time at Occidental. This includes writing seminars, foreign culture education, language study, and fine arts classes to name a few. Before graduation, each student is required to pass a comprehensive exam about their chosen major which could include anything from fieldwork to oral exams.
With 31 majors and 40 different departments and programs, students are bound to find a path that is perfect for them. Although economics is the most popular major, Occidental is highly regarded in many fields, ranging from fine arts to politics to the math and sciences. The school encourages a multi-faceted way of learning, so just sitting in front of a book for six hours a day won’t cut it. Students are pushed to research, question, experiment, and tackle their interests head on.
And if none of this convinces you that Occidental is one cool place, then what if I tell you that Ben Affleck graduated from here!? That’s right… Affleck. Yeah, I knew that would change your mind. Check it out: www.oxy.edu/life-oxy
Occidental’s beautiful Mediterranean style campus is thrives in Eagle Rock, California, and is just eight miles from downtown Los Angeles. The student body is small, with just over two thousand undergrads in attendance. Students are required to live on campus for their first three years, which gives them a chance to really become comfortable and work closely with their peers. This close-knit community isn’t an accident; it’s something that Oxy students and professors are really proud of.
Despite its close-knit campus, Oxy puts a large emphasis on community involvement and global education. And with downtown Los Angeles just a few miles away, small and cozy goes right out of the window whenever desired. Not only can students participate in the booming day and night life of the city, but the opportunities for research, creativity, internships, and experiences in their fields are also endless.
The college is known for its Core Program, which was designed to help students achieve a more well-rounded liberal arts education. Students are required to accomplish certain goals throughout their time at Occidental. This includes writing seminars, foreign culture education, language study, and fine arts classes to name a few. Before graduation, each student is required to pass a comprehensive exam about their chosen major which could include anything from fieldwork to oral exams.
With 31 majors and 40 different departments and programs, students are bound to find a path that is perfect for them. Although economics is the most popular major, Occidental is highly regarded in many fields, ranging from fine arts to politics to the math and sciences. The school encourages a multi-faceted way of learning, so just sitting in front of a book for six hours a day won’t cut it. Students are pushed to research, question, experiment, and tackle their interests head on.
And if none of this convinces you that Occidental is one cool place, then what if I tell you that Ben Affleck graduated from here!? That’s right… Affleck. Yeah, I knew that would change your mind. Check it out: www.oxy.edu/life-oxy
Georgia Institute of Technology
Truth: I always wanted to be an astronaut. Okay, okay, everyone on the planet wanted to be an astronaut at some point in their lives. But with the current spotlight on our country’s space program and the Mars rover mission, my old ambition is now resurfacing itself in this month’s College Spotlight. So if you have had similar dreams of moon rocks, space flight, and amazing scientific discoveries that propel mankind into the future, you should listen up!
So, what is the first step to becoming a real astronaut (or having any job related to space and science)? Attend a school that is nationally known for its amazing science and engineering degrees, research programs, and quality of education. And it just so happens that the Georgia Institute of Technology is exactly that type of school.
Georgia Tech is, hands down, one of the best public universities for students interested in science and engineering. In fact, its own mission states that it is a school “distinguished by its commitment to improving the human condition through advanced science and technology.” A staggering 65 percent of graduating students leave with a degree from the engineering school, and its alumni includes a large group of notable scientists, engineers, NASA administrators, and more. Most of the school’s programs are highly ranked year after year, but most noteworthy are its degrees offered in tech engineering, industrial engineering, and biomedical engineering.
The school is located in the city of Atlanta, but the opportunities for travel and extended research are endless. With satellite campuses in Savannah, Georgia, France, Ireland, China, and Singapore, students are encouraged and supported to “think big” and expand their knowledge through worldly experiences.
You’d think with a school so focused on science, athletics would not even make an appearance. But, incredibly, at Georgia Tech, you get the best of both worlds. Students proudly support their Yellow Jackets in sports ranging from Division I football and baseball to swimming and cross country. The football staduim is even front and center as soon as you step onto the campus. Astronauts have to be in shape too, after all.
So if you are feeling inspired to reach for the stars in your college selection, perhaps Georgia Tech is the school for you! Check out more at: http://www.gatech.edu/
So, what is the first step to becoming a real astronaut (or having any job related to space and science)? Attend a school that is nationally known for its amazing science and engineering degrees, research programs, and quality of education. And it just so happens that the Georgia Institute of Technology is exactly that type of school.
Georgia Tech is, hands down, one of the best public universities for students interested in science and engineering. In fact, its own mission states that it is a school “distinguished by its commitment to improving the human condition through advanced science and technology.” A staggering 65 percent of graduating students leave with a degree from the engineering school, and its alumni includes a large group of notable scientists, engineers, NASA administrators, and more. Most of the school’s programs are highly ranked year after year, but most noteworthy are its degrees offered in tech engineering, industrial engineering, and biomedical engineering.
The school is located in the city of Atlanta, but the opportunities for travel and extended research are endless. With satellite campuses in Savannah, Georgia, France, Ireland, China, and Singapore, students are encouraged and supported to “think big” and expand their knowledge through worldly experiences.
You’d think with a school so focused on science, athletics would not even make an appearance. But, incredibly, at Georgia Tech, you get the best of both worlds. Students proudly support their Yellow Jackets in sports ranging from Division I football and baseball to swimming and cross country. The football staduim is even front and center as soon as you step onto the campus. Astronauts have to be in shape too, after all.
So if you are feeling inspired to reach for the stars in your college selection, perhaps Georgia Tech is the school for you! Check out more at: http://www.gatech.edu/
Notre Dame
I hope you’re wearing green when you read this, because this month we’re getting into the spirit and shining a spotlight on a school that is bursting at its seams with Irish spirit. They even have a leprechaun as their school mascot. Of course, I’m talking about the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
The University of Notre Dame is more than just a school. From its presence in the film Rudy, to its long-standing reputation in college football, if you’ve heard the words “Notre Dame,” chances are you didn’t think of the cathedral in Paris.
Established in 1842, Notre Dame is a private, Catholic university with just over 8,000 undergrads. It consistently ranks at the top in the nation in many areas such as overall education (12th in Forbes’ America’s Best Colleges) and study abroad participation (6th in the nation). Additionally, its business, law, architecture, and philosophy programs have individually ranked high in recent years. With such a great education, you won’t need to kiss a Blarney Stone to know what you are talking about after leaving this school!
As I mentioned earlier, we can’t talk about Notre Dame without talking about SPORTS! If you want a medium-sized school with big-sized school spirit, Notre Dame won’t let you down. The students and faculty are hopelessly devoted to their sports teams, most notably the football team. Just as the name would suggest, the Fighting Irish are historically tough and follow the motto, “Play Like a Champion Today.” Their teams also claim the most number of members in the college football hall of fame, and they tie Ohio State University for the most Heisman Trophy winners. With a record that consistent, I’d say luck has nothing to do with it.
If you attend Notre Dame, you are attending a school rich with history and tradition. From its architecture to its libraries to even the campus restaurant, Notre Dame and the students who attend it make it a priority to keep its history and rituals strong and present. For example, a football game will never commence without the Irish Guard leading the Band of the Fighting Irish to the stadium and Dillon Hall will always host the very first pep rally of the season. Tradition is the Notre Dame way.
So if you think dark blue and gold (and the occasional green) are your colors, I want you to “go go go go go” to the website and “not stop till you get across that goal line.” (Okay, I’ll stop with the Rudy references.) Find out more information here: http://admissions.nd.edu/life-at-notre-dame
The University of Notre Dame is more than just a school. From its presence in the film Rudy, to its long-standing reputation in college football, if you’ve heard the words “Notre Dame,” chances are you didn’t think of the cathedral in Paris.
Established in 1842, Notre Dame is a private, Catholic university with just over 8,000 undergrads. It consistently ranks at the top in the nation in many areas such as overall education (12th in Forbes’ America’s Best Colleges) and study abroad participation (6th in the nation). Additionally, its business, law, architecture, and philosophy programs have individually ranked high in recent years. With such a great education, you won’t need to kiss a Blarney Stone to know what you are talking about after leaving this school!
As I mentioned earlier, we can’t talk about Notre Dame without talking about SPORTS! If you want a medium-sized school with big-sized school spirit, Notre Dame won’t let you down. The students and faculty are hopelessly devoted to their sports teams, most notably the football team. Just as the name would suggest, the Fighting Irish are historically tough and follow the motto, “Play Like a Champion Today.” Their teams also claim the most number of members in the college football hall of fame, and they tie Ohio State University for the most Heisman Trophy winners. With a record that consistent, I’d say luck has nothing to do with it.
If you attend Notre Dame, you are attending a school rich with history and tradition. From its architecture to its libraries to even the campus restaurant, Notre Dame and the students who attend it make it a priority to keep its history and rituals strong and present. For example, a football game will never commence without the Irish Guard leading the Band of the Fighting Irish to the stadium and Dillon Hall will always host the very first pep rally of the season. Tradition is the Notre Dame way.
So if you think dark blue and gold (and the occasional green) are your colors, I want you to “go go go go go” to the website and “not stop till you get across that goal line.” (Okay, I’ll stop with the Rudy references.) Find out more information here: http://admissions.nd.edu/life-at-notre-dame
Mount Holyoke
Ladies, listen up, because this month, we are going to talk about a college that is completely devoted to the empowerment of young women like you! Mount Holyoke College was founded by chemist Mary Lyon almost a century before women were even allowed to vote. Since then, it has stood as a model for higher education and has produced some of the world’s most accomplished women writers and scientists.
Holyoke is located in the town of South Hadley, Massachusetts on a campus that was recently ranked #9 amongst the nation’s most beautiful campuses by the Princeton Review. It was the first of the Seven Sisters colleges, which is considered the female equivalent to the historically male-dominated Ivy League. Mount Holyoke is also one of the best schools for any woman wanting to study writing, and has produced some of the world’s best known female writers, including Emily Dickinson. But, don’t let this stop you if you’re not a budding writer because the college is also known for its sciences and research programs.
There are a little over 2,000 women in its student body, which keeps classes small and campus participation high. The faculty is rich with nationally and internationally known talent, and the school has ranked #1 for “Best Classroom Experience” and #9 for “Schools That Run Like Butter.” There are 50 majors offered, but students are also allowed to design their own major if something more specific is needed. On top of all of that, around 200 students a year participate in the college’s well-known study abroad program. Whew! We’re exhausted just thinking about all the amazing things that go on there.
What I’ve written above may make Holyoke sound like it’s just about accolades and education, but the fun and traditions of this historic institution are just as plentiful. For instance, every year it is tradition for the school’s president to randomly choose a particularly beautiful autumn day and order the bells of Abbey Chapel to be rung throughout campus. This event is the beginning of Mountain Day, where all classes are cancelled and many students spend their day hiking up Mount Holyoke or just spending time outside.
Perhaps Mount Holyoke College isn’t for everyone (ahem, boys), but if it does seem like a place you may flourish, make sure to check out more information here: www.mtholyoke.edu.
Holyoke is located in the town of South Hadley, Massachusetts on a campus that was recently ranked #9 amongst the nation’s most beautiful campuses by the Princeton Review. It was the first of the Seven Sisters colleges, which is considered the female equivalent to the historically male-dominated Ivy League. Mount Holyoke is also one of the best schools for any woman wanting to study writing, and has produced some of the world’s best known female writers, including Emily Dickinson. But, don’t let this stop you if you’re not a budding writer because the college is also known for its sciences and research programs.
There are a little over 2,000 women in its student body, which keeps classes small and campus participation high. The faculty is rich with nationally and internationally known talent, and the school has ranked #1 for “Best Classroom Experience” and #9 for “Schools That Run Like Butter.” There are 50 majors offered, but students are also allowed to design their own major if something more specific is needed. On top of all of that, around 200 students a year participate in the college’s well-known study abroad program. Whew! We’re exhausted just thinking about all the amazing things that go on there.
What I’ve written above may make Holyoke sound like it’s just about accolades and education, but the fun and traditions of this historic institution are just as plentiful. For instance, every year it is tradition for the school’s president to randomly choose a particularly beautiful autumn day and order the bells of Abbey Chapel to be rung throughout campus. This event is the beginning of Mountain Day, where all classes are cancelled and many students spend their day hiking up Mount Holyoke or just spending time outside.
Perhaps Mount Holyoke College isn’t for everyone (ahem, boys), but if it does seem like a place you may flourish, make sure to check out more information here: www.mtholyoke.edu.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
With just under 30,000 students claiming the Tar Heel title, it is hard to believe that the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill can be so focused on the number 1. But the Tar Heel way is all about empowering the individual to make a difference in their community and to understand the effect that 1 person can have on the world. The school’s “1 is a Powerful Number ” movement highlights former and current students who have managed to change lives by the work that they have done by promoting them around campus with print messages and public service announcements.
So, yes, the school is all about the individual, but it is not the type of university for a student who wants to be alone in their college experience. Like other big state universities, UNC is heavy with school spirit. The Tar Heel’s sports teams are plentiful in number and accolades. In fact, it is Michael Jordan’s alma mater! And “Rushing Franklin” is a regular activity, where students rush onto local Franklin Street to celebrate the school’s victories! There is also an active Greek system and lots of clubs and activities to serve anyone’s interests. From the Ackland Art Museum to the Morehead Planetarium, a student can find many opportunities to explore their curiosities.
As far as an education, you’re getting a good one when you attend UNC. The school is part of what people call The Research Triangle. It is part of a national research and technological hub that includes Duke University and North Carolina State University. It has also been ranked by multiple publications as the #1 public school in regards to getting the best value for your money. It has an outstanding business program and also excels in science and technology.
In my opinion, though, the coolest thing about UNC is its history. In keeping with the #1 theme, did you know that it was the nation’s 1st ever public university? And it was the only one to issue degrees in the 18th century! History, personal recognition, sports, activities, education! What more can you ask for?
If you find yourself yearning to be a Tar Heel (I know… I don’t know what a Tar Heel is, either) and this seems like the kind of school that you’d like to know more about, click the link and read more about UNC! www.unc.edu
So, yes, the school is all about the individual, but it is not the type of university for a student who wants to be alone in their college experience. Like other big state universities, UNC is heavy with school spirit. The Tar Heel’s sports teams are plentiful in number and accolades. In fact, it is Michael Jordan’s alma mater! And “Rushing Franklin” is a regular activity, where students rush onto local Franklin Street to celebrate the school’s victories! There is also an active Greek system and lots of clubs and activities to serve anyone’s interests. From the Ackland Art Museum to the Morehead Planetarium, a student can find many opportunities to explore their curiosities.
As far as an education, you’re getting a good one when you attend UNC. The school is part of what people call The Research Triangle. It is part of a national research and technological hub that includes Duke University and North Carolina State University. It has also been ranked by multiple publications as the #1 public school in regards to getting the best value for your money. It has an outstanding business program and also excels in science and technology.
In my opinion, though, the coolest thing about UNC is its history. In keeping with the #1 theme, did you know that it was the nation’s 1st ever public university? And it was the only one to issue degrees in the 18th century! History, personal recognition, sports, activities, education! What more can you ask for?
If you find yourself yearning to be a Tar Heel (I know… I don’t know what a Tar Heel is, either) and this seems like the kind of school that you’d like to know more about, click the link and read more about UNC! www.unc.edu
McDaniel College
The holidays are in full swing around the College Right offices so, this month, we’d like to introduce you to a school that makes us feel all warm and fuzzy. Not only does it reside in a place that looks like it belongs in a holiday movie, but it also represents all of the wonderful ideals that the holiday season brings.
Located atop a hill, overlooking picturesque Westminster, Maryland, McDaniel College is unique in location and values. It was founded in the mid-19th century and has gained a reputation for being inclusive and welcoming in regards to its admissions. Since its doors opened, the school has wanted to provide a diverse and equal opportunity atmosphere. In fact, it was the first coeducational institution south of the Mason-Dixon Line in the United States. It also puts an emphasis on first-generation college student admissions. So although the school is quite selective, it still has that “more-the-merrier” spirit.
As a small, private liberal arts college, McDaniel is all about a student’s unique personal experience. The school wants its students to create an educational plan that works for them. As their website states, “Don’t see a major course of study that appeals to you? Self-design your own.” And with only around 1,600 students, the class sizes stay consistently small, letting students and professors work hand-in-hand on many research and class projects. It was even named as one of forty “Colleges That Change Lives” by author Loren Pope who wrote the book with same name.
And if you’re a student who loves that small town feel, but still wants big town opportunities, don’t fear. Westminster is just thirty minutes from Baltimore and an hour from Washington DC. And for those wanting to go even further, McDaniel College also has a satellite college in Budapest! Just make sure you bring us back some matryoshka dolls! (the tiny wooden dolls hidden inside of other wooden dolls. But, I bet you already knew that.)
For more information about McDaniel College, visit their website at www.mcdaniel.edu. And have a safe and happy holiday from all of us at College Right!
Located atop a hill, overlooking picturesque Westminster, Maryland, McDaniel College is unique in location and values. It was founded in the mid-19th century and has gained a reputation for being inclusive and welcoming in regards to its admissions. Since its doors opened, the school has wanted to provide a diverse and equal opportunity atmosphere. In fact, it was the first coeducational institution south of the Mason-Dixon Line in the United States. It also puts an emphasis on first-generation college student admissions. So although the school is quite selective, it still has that “more-the-merrier” spirit.
As a small, private liberal arts college, McDaniel is all about a student’s unique personal experience. The school wants its students to create an educational plan that works for them. As their website states, “Don’t see a major course of study that appeals to you? Self-design your own.” And with only around 1,600 students, the class sizes stay consistently small, letting students and professors work hand-in-hand on many research and class projects. It was even named as one of forty “Colleges That Change Lives” by author Loren Pope who wrote the book with same name.
And if you’re a student who loves that small town feel, but still wants big town opportunities, don’t fear. Westminster is just thirty minutes from Baltimore and an hour from Washington DC. And for those wanting to go even further, McDaniel College also has a satellite college in Budapest! Just make sure you bring us back some matryoshka dolls! (the tiny wooden dolls hidden inside of other wooden dolls. But, I bet you already knew that.)
For more information about McDaniel College, visit their website at www.mcdaniel.edu. And have a safe and happy holiday from all of us at College Right!
Emory & Henry College
This month is all about being thankful, giving to others, and turkey. (Mostly about the turkey, though.) So, we are putting the spotlight on a college that encompasses all of the good things that Thanksgiving is about year round, not just on one day.
Emory & Henry College resides in the small village of Emory, Virginia – the very state where the first Thanksgiving took place! It is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and has a student population of under a thousand people. It is a private, liberal arts college founded in 1836, which makes it the oldest institute of higher learning in Southwest Virginia. You could say that it has the feel of Colonial America but with all of the educational opportunities of the 21st century. Isn’t that a-“maize”-ing?? (Warning: more Thanksgiving puns ahead.)
But, the most Thanksgiving-ish quality of the school comes in the form of service. The college’s mission rests largely on its commitment to civic virtue. It has been nationally recognized as a “College that Changes Lives,” it received the 2009 President’s Award, which honored six colleges for being leaders in civic engagement, and it was rated in the top five of service-learning colleges in Newsweek magazine’s 2011 college rankings. Many students volunteer at the school’s Appalachian Center, where they can work on long-term and short-term projects that focus on helping the poorer, rural communities of the Appalachian’s. And, that is just “gravy” in my book.
As far as academics, Emory & Henry is as good as pumpkin pie. In 2010, it was ranked in the top 30, nationally, for liberal arts colleges by Washington Monthly. The faculty to student ratio is small (10:1), which results in class sizes with fewer than 20 students. It has more than 26 programs to choose from in its liberal arts curriculum. Most telling of all, however, is that the student satisfaction rate is well above the national average.
So, are you “stuffed” yet by all of these awesome facts? If not, don’t be a turkey! Click the link and find out more! Happy Thanksgiving!
http://www.ehc.edu/about/history-mission-culture
Emory & Henry College resides in the small village of Emory, Virginia – the very state where the first Thanksgiving took place! It is surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains and has a student population of under a thousand people. It is a private, liberal arts college founded in 1836, which makes it the oldest institute of higher learning in Southwest Virginia. You could say that it has the feel of Colonial America but with all of the educational opportunities of the 21st century. Isn’t that a-“maize”-ing?? (Warning: more Thanksgiving puns ahead.)
But, the most Thanksgiving-ish quality of the school comes in the form of service. The college’s mission rests largely on its commitment to civic virtue. It has been nationally recognized as a “College that Changes Lives,” it received the 2009 President’s Award, which honored six colleges for being leaders in civic engagement, and it was rated in the top five of service-learning colleges in Newsweek magazine’s 2011 college rankings. Many students volunteer at the school’s Appalachian Center, where they can work on long-term and short-term projects that focus on helping the poorer, rural communities of the Appalachian’s. And, that is just “gravy” in my book.
As far as academics, Emory & Henry is as good as pumpkin pie. In 2010, it was ranked in the top 30, nationally, for liberal arts colleges by Washington Monthly. The faculty to student ratio is small (10:1), which results in class sizes with fewer than 20 students. It has more than 26 programs to choose from in its liberal arts curriculum. Most telling of all, however, is that the student satisfaction rate is well above the national average.
So, are you “stuffed” yet by all of these awesome facts? If not, don’t be a turkey! Click the link and find out more! Happy Thanksgiving!
http://www.ehc.edu/about/history-mission-culture
Pomona College
This month, it’s time to bring the College Spotlight home. By this I mean Pomona College in Claremont, California, just 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.
Pomona has the unique attribute of being part of a five-college consortium called the Claremont Colleges. This basically means that these five colleges work closely with one another for common educational goals and experiences. There are several other consortiums in the United States, but the most unique part of the Claremonts is that all five campuses are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, students at all five colleges are encouraged to mingle with their fellow consortium colleagues both socially and academically. In fact, Pomona students can take up to 50% of their courses at another of the Claremont Colleges! Pomona College is a special place because the students there get the best of both worlds: they receive the personal attention that comes with attending a small liberal arts college while also experiencing the social benefits of attending a larger university because of the other four colleges.
Pomona is consistently ranked in the top ten for national liberal arts colleges, and this year it grabbed the number four spot. So yeah, it’s good. Really good. It excels in most (if not all) of its majors, but is most notably known for its science and tech programs. It also has a wonderful reputation for preparing students who would eventually like to attend graduate school. With an average class size of only fifteen students, you can imagine why.
The most appealing aspect of attending Pomona is its relentless effort to insert a little fun into its students’ college experiences. The college is widely known for its wacky superstitions and traditions. Not only is there a white-dress-wearing ghost named Gwendolyn Rose purportedly roaming the hallways of Sumner Hall, but there is also a secret society called the Mufti who have been posting messages with social and school-related commentary across campus since the 1940’s! The school also has a funny little tradition of honoring the number 47 within the student body. Yes, you heard me; they love the number 47. As legend has it, the obsession with the number 47 started in 1964, when a professor named Donald Bentley challenged his students to disprove his theory that 47 showed up in nature more often than all other numbers. Since then, the number has held its tradition of importance. Weird? Yes. Awesome? Also, yes.
So, if you are smart and curious (and love the number 47), Pomona might be for you. Check out more info at: www.pomona.edu
Pomona has the unique attribute of being part of a five-college consortium called the Claremont Colleges. This basically means that these five colleges work closely with one another for common educational goals and experiences. There are several other consortiums in the United States, but the most unique part of the Claremonts is that all five campuses are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, students at all five colleges are encouraged to mingle with their fellow consortium colleagues both socially and academically. In fact, Pomona students can take up to 50% of their courses at another of the Claremont Colleges! Pomona College is a special place because the students there get the best of both worlds: they receive the personal attention that comes with attending a small liberal arts college while also experiencing the social benefits of attending a larger university because of the other four colleges.
Pomona is consistently ranked in the top ten for national liberal arts colleges, and this year it grabbed the number four spot. So yeah, it’s good. Really good. It excels in most (if not all) of its majors, but is most notably known for its science and tech programs. It also has a wonderful reputation for preparing students who would eventually like to attend graduate school. With an average class size of only fifteen students, you can imagine why.
The most appealing aspect of attending Pomona is its relentless effort to insert a little fun into its students’ college experiences. The college is widely known for its wacky superstitions and traditions. Not only is there a white-dress-wearing ghost named Gwendolyn Rose purportedly roaming the hallways of Sumner Hall, but there is also a secret society called the Mufti who have been posting messages with social and school-related commentary across campus since the 1940’s! The school also has a funny little tradition of honoring the number 47 within the student body. Yes, you heard me; they love the number 47. As legend has it, the obsession with the number 47 started in 1964, when a professor named Donald Bentley challenged his students to disprove his theory that 47 showed up in nature more often than all other numbers. Since then, the number has held its tradition of importance. Weird? Yes. Awesome? Also, yes.
So, if you are smart and curious (and love the number 47), Pomona might be for you. Check out more info at: www.pomona.edu
University of Florida
The University of Florida is my alma mater, but I’m going to try to be unbiased when telling you about it. So, here we go. It’s the best school that ever existed, and you definitely should go there over ANY OTHER SCHOOL. Okay, I lied. I’m definitely going to be biased.
There are so many aspects of UF that I wish I could tell you about, but I’ve narrowed it down to three. The first one can be explained with one word: Tebow. As long as you haven’t been living under a rock for the past couple of years, you probably know who I’m taking about. Tebow was the quarterback at UF when I was attending. And let me assure you, the intensity that Tim Tebow has brought to his professional career is a direct reflection of the intensity that the students and athletes at UF feel about their athletic program. Sports have always served as the heartbeat of the campus and fueled the spirit of the student body and alumni. Even today, I cannot resist the urge to yell, “Go Gators!” at anyone I see wearing a Florida Gator shirt. Students looking for that traditional college “rah-rah” feel will be right at home as a student on campus.
So, yes, sports are huge, but don’t be fooled into thinking that this is all the university has to offer. Many of the university’s programs have been ranked in the top 50 in the nation, most notably in the areas of engineering, technology, and computer sciences. UF is a large campus with a large student body so the choices of quality majors are endless. It is also nationally known as a top research school and was ranked 19th out of best public universities in the United States by the U.S. News & World Report. I can also confidently vouch for its theater and acting degree programs.
The last thing you should know about Florida is its amazing atmosphere. It resides in a spectacular college town, Gainesville, Florida, and the town fantastically exists for the students and campus. This makes the experience of being a student living in Gainesville everything you want it to be when you think of a traditional college town. Everything about Gainesville is tailored to student life from the restaurants to the shopping to the transportation. You can walk to almost anything you need, but if you did want to get out of the town for a day, you are only about 90 minutes from the beach and an hour to the city of Jacksonville, FL.
Going to UF provided me with a bag full of amazing memories and experiences. If you think you might be a good fit for the “Gator Nation,” you can get more info at: www.ufl.edu
There are so many aspects of UF that I wish I could tell you about, but I’ve narrowed it down to three. The first one can be explained with one word: Tebow. As long as you haven’t been living under a rock for the past couple of years, you probably know who I’m taking about. Tebow was the quarterback at UF when I was attending. And let me assure you, the intensity that Tim Tebow has brought to his professional career is a direct reflection of the intensity that the students and athletes at UF feel about their athletic program. Sports have always served as the heartbeat of the campus and fueled the spirit of the student body and alumni. Even today, I cannot resist the urge to yell, “Go Gators!” at anyone I see wearing a Florida Gator shirt. Students looking for that traditional college “rah-rah” feel will be right at home as a student on campus.
So, yes, sports are huge, but don’t be fooled into thinking that this is all the university has to offer. Many of the university’s programs have been ranked in the top 50 in the nation, most notably in the areas of engineering, technology, and computer sciences. UF is a large campus with a large student body so the choices of quality majors are endless. It is also nationally known as a top research school and was ranked 19th out of best public universities in the United States by the U.S. News & World Report. I can also confidently vouch for its theater and acting degree programs.
The last thing you should know about Florida is its amazing atmosphere. It resides in a spectacular college town, Gainesville, Florida, and the town fantastically exists for the students and campus. This makes the experience of being a student living in Gainesville everything you want it to be when you think of a traditional college town. Everything about Gainesville is tailored to student life from the restaurants to the shopping to the transportation. You can walk to almost anything you need, but if you did want to get out of the town for a day, you are only about 90 minutes from the beach and an hour to the city of Jacksonville, FL.
Going to UF provided me with a bag full of amazing memories and experiences. If you think you might be a good fit for the “Gator Nation,” you can get more info at: www.ufl.edu
St. John’s College
St. John’s College is a place that’s either extraordinarily right for you or totally wrong for you, which is why we find it so interesting to talk about. With fewer than five hundred students on each of its two campuses, the college is known for attracting curious intellectuals who are ready to completely immerse themselves in the higher learning experience. Also, you have to love books. I mean, really love books. Let me explain.
The most unique and famous part of this college is its Great Books Curriculum. The college offers one major in liberal arts and the Great Books program is based completely on reading works of the past in areas of music, math, science, languages, literature, and philosophy. Meaning, your curriculum is reading, reading, and more reading. Classes challenge the students to learn about the world and themselves from studying what the views and perspectives are of the authors they read in class. Course literature ranges from Geoffrey Chaucer to Martin Luther to Virgil to Jane Austen, and everything else in between. So, if you’re looking to take a course in molecular biology or computer engineering, St. John’s isn’t the place for you.
The college has two campuses, the original in Annapolis, Maryland and the newer in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Class sizes are super small, with the largest being around twenty students and the average around twelve to sixteen – sometimes smaller. Because of this, one-on-one interaction between students and their instructors (referred to as tutors) is a fundamental part of the St. John’s education. Grades are based solely on class participation and papers. Despite using a traditional A-F grading system, grades are downplayed and only released to students at their request. That’s right, your grades are downplayed, which leaves you to focus your brain cells on Aristotle rather than A’s.
So, if you happen to be a student who thinks this school could be extraordinarily right for you, you better BOOK IT to St. John’s website and check it out for yourself: www.stjohnscollege.edu/academic/main.shtml
The most unique and famous part of this college is its Great Books Curriculum. The college offers one major in liberal arts and the Great Books program is based completely on reading works of the past in areas of music, math, science, languages, literature, and philosophy. Meaning, your curriculum is reading, reading, and more reading. Classes challenge the students to learn about the world and themselves from studying what the views and perspectives are of the authors they read in class. Course literature ranges from Geoffrey Chaucer to Martin Luther to Virgil to Jane Austen, and everything else in between. So, if you’re looking to take a course in molecular biology or computer engineering, St. John’s isn’t the place for you.
The college has two campuses, the original in Annapolis, Maryland and the newer in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Class sizes are super small, with the largest being around twenty students and the average around twelve to sixteen – sometimes smaller. Because of this, one-on-one interaction between students and their instructors (referred to as tutors) is a fundamental part of the St. John’s education. Grades are based solely on class participation and papers. Despite using a traditional A-F grading system, grades are downplayed and only released to students at their request. That’s right, your grades are downplayed, which leaves you to focus your brain cells on Aristotle rather than A’s.
So, if you happen to be a student who thinks this school could be extraordinarily right for you, you better BOOK IT to St. John’s website and check it out for yourself: www.stjohnscollege.edu/academic/main.shtml
George Washington University
It’s summertime and my eyes are seeing red, white, and blue! But it’s not just my Firecracker Popsicle and American flag bathing suit in my eye line. I’ve also got my sight set on The George Washington University, and let me tell you why. Not only is GW ranked 50th in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, but this medium-sized university is also located in the center of Washington DC. Accessible, full of rich history, and once named the “Most Livable” city on the East Coast, DC is an amazing landscape for any college student.
Washington DC is, once again, about to take center stage with the upcoming presidential election, so what better place for a young, politically-minded student to study than in the heart of it all? Students who go to The George Washington University are known for being incredibly politically and socially active. Whether it’s a political party, the university’s Greek system, a school club, or attending a party at the State Department, GW students are known for making their voices heard. No one there is sitting around waiting on the world to change, if you know what I mean. (And yes, I did just reference a John Mayer song. Protests on that issue can be forwarded directly to me.)
The main GW campus is located a mere four blocks from the White House, the World Bank, the State Department, and the National Mall. And with that arms-length proximity, students have a huge advantage when it comes to internships and job opportunities in our nation’s capitol. Countless senators, representatives, and other political figures such as Jackie Kennedy, J. Edgar Hoover, and Colin Powell attended GW.
As you can probably guess, the university’s undergraduate programs attract many students looking to major in international relations and political science. But, don’t think you have to want to be the future president to go here. GW is very well known for its outstanding business, international business, and engineering programs too. With three campuses, a library of over two-million volumes, and eighty-seven majors, I’d say your potential education experience is quite eclectic.
Happy 4th of July! For more information about George Washington University, visit: http://www.gwu.edu/
Washington DC is, once again, about to take center stage with the upcoming presidential election, so what better place for a young, politically-minded student to study than in the heart of it all? Students who go to The George Washington University are known for being incredibly politically and socially active. Whether it’s a political party, the university’s Greek system, a school club, or attending a party at the State Department, GW students are known for making their voices heard. No one there is sitting around waiting on the world to change, if you know what I mean. (And yes, I did just reference a John Mayer song. Protests on that issue can be forwarded directly to me.)
The main GW campus is located a mere four blocks from the White House, the World Bank, the State Department, and the National Mall. And with that arms-length proximity, students have a huge advantage when it comes to internships and job opportunities in our nation’s capitol. Countless senators, representatives, and other political figures such as Jackie Kennedy, J. Edgar Hoover, and Colin Powell attended GW.
As you can probably guess, the university’s undergraduate programs attract many students looking to major in international relations and political science. But, don’t think you have to want to be the future president to go here. GW is very well known for its outstanding business, international business, and engineering programs too. With three campuses, a library of over two-million volumes, and eighty-seven majors, I’d say your potential education experience is quite eclectic.
Happy 4th of July! For more information about George Washington University, visit: http://www.gwu.edu/
Colorado State University
Ah, the Old West: cowboys and covered wagons. A place that inspired Americans from the East to pack up their belongings, say goodbye to their families, and ride off into the sunset in search of adventure and new horizons. Sounding somewhat familiar to your life right now? So why not start your new adventure in the footsteps of our country’s ancestors and stick to a university where the spirit of the Old West continues to reign?
Colorado State University in Fort Collins stands at the western edge of the Great Plains, just at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The city was founded in the mid-19th century as a military post and soon became home to travelers making their way out West. With over 30,000 students, four campuses, and Bachelor’s degrees offered in 65 fields of study, you get the luxury of a big college community in the wide, open spaces of beautiful Colorado. Adventure doesn’t even begin to explain it.
The college’s veterinary medicine program and 101-acre veterinary hospital is highly respected and ranks 3rd in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The business school was named one of the 301 “Best Business Schools” in the country by the Princeton Review. And, the university also has amazing agriculture and science programs with facilities including greenhouses, farms, ranches, and an equine center.
However, if being in the middle of the big, wide West is making you feel a little secluded, I’ve got news for you. Almost 1,000 students every year participate in the study abroad program, and almost 1,300 students from 85 different countries study at CSU every year. On top of that, the university consistently ranks at the very top each year for recruitment of Peace Corps volunteers. Forget the risky trip on the Oregon Trail. If you want to broaden your horizons, just go to CSU and look around!
So, if your ideal college experience includes horseback riding and day trips to the Rocky Mountains, perhaps you should pack your own covered wagon (your carry-on suitcase), and head on out to Colorado State University for a gander.
For more information visit: http://www.colostate.edu/
Colorado State University in Fort Collins stands at the western edge of the Great Plains, just at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The city was founded in the mid-19th century as a military post and soon became home to travelers making their way out West. With over 30,000 students, four campuses, and Bachelor’s degrees offered in 65 fields of study, you get the luxury of a big college community in the wide, open spaces of beautiful Colorado. Adventure doesn’t even begin to explain it.
The college’s veterinary medicine program and 101-acre veterinary hospital is highly respected and ranks 3rd in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The business school was named one of the 301 “Best Business Schools” in the country by the Princeton Review. And, the university also has amazing agriculture and science programs with facilities including greenhouses, farms, ranches, and an equine center.
However, if being in the middle of the big, wide West is making you feel a little secluded, I’ve got news for you. Almost 1,000 students every year participate in the study abroad program, and almost 1,300 students from 85 different countries study at CSU every year. On top of that, the university consistently ranks at the very top each year for recruitment of Peace Corps volunteers. Forget the risky trip on the Oregon Trail. If you want to broaden your horizons, just go to CSU and look around!
So, if your ideal college experience includes horseback riding and day trips to the Rocky Mountains, perhaps you should pack your own covered wagon (your carry-on suitcase), and head on out to Colorado State University for a gander.
For more information visit: http://www.colostate.edu/
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