By John Le
As you continue on through the college research process or maybe even finished applying to UC’s and CSU’s, you may think there’s no other options left. However, throughout the thousands of colleges and universities in the U.S., one particular institution is undervalued- Liberal Arts Colleges.
1. What are Liberal Arts Colleges (LAC’s)?
Liberal arts colleges tend to prioritize smaller class sizes and on interdisciplinary learning. Most of these colleges allow students to explore multiple disciplines with ease, and have multiple ways for students to be involved with such academics.
2. What are some benefits of going to LAC’s?
LAC’s have very strong academics because they focus on creating leaders and unique individuals for society. These colleges have great programs for students to be engaged in, and most schools have unique features that set them apart from others. For example, at Claremont Mckenna College, the school brings in speakers about 4 times a week at The Ath for students to learn about others. At Colorado College, the school follows the “Block Plan”, which allows students to take classes in blocks one class at a time, allowing students to solely focus on one subject. In addition, many LAC’s have additional resources for students that most public institutions cannot provide on a personal value. They tend to have a lot of funding for students to study abroad at no or little cost, and most offer many broad internships across the locations they are in.
3. How costly are LAC’s?
Because these are private institutions, the price of attending is pretty hefty. However,
LAC’s focus on need-blind admissions and need-based financial aid. Therefore, the financial aid packages for these schools will help alleviate costs significantly. They also have opportunities for students to work on campus and have paid internships.
4. What are some popular LAC’s?
Some well known LAC’s in California include the Claremont Consortium, with Pomona, Claremont Mckenna, Pitzer, Harvey Mudd, and Scripps. Out of states, there are schools such as Colorado College, Bowdoin College, Amherst College and many more. There are some popular women’s colleges such as Scripps and Bryn Mawr.
5. Why should you apply to LAC’s?
If you’re a senior considering different options besides the UC’s and CSU’s, consider liberal arts schools. These schools have very different priorities from the public system and have multiple ways for students to be engaged on campus. Because of the small class sizes, students have a more personal connection with their professors and classmates themselves. Even at Swarthmore college, first-year freshmen do not receive grades first semester- they value education more than a letter. LAC’s focus on the individual and they want to ensure the individual has a very well-connected experience.
6. How do you apply?
Most colleges do their admissions through the Common App, and some will require interviews. Do some more research while you can and decide to apply. Many LAC application due dates are in January for Regular Decision, with some schools offering Early Decision Round 2 (which is binding). Visit the Claremont Consortium and see if you like the campuses. I hope you will enjoy what LAC’s have to offer.
