BATES COLLEGE

BATES COLLEGE

23 CAMPUS AVENLE, LINDHOLM HOUSE, LEWISION, ME 04240 • ADMISSIONS: 207-786-6000 • FAX: 207-786-6025
FINANCIAL AID: 207-786-6096 • E-MAIL: ADMlSSIONS@BATES.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.BATES.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Those seeking “a high-paced rigorous academic college with a low-key, lai back, and fun student body and campus life” should consider Maine’s Bat College, a small liberal arts school that “focuses on students becoming critical and creatively thinking citizens of the world” through first-year seminaj mandatory senior theses, and a range of departmental, interdisciplinary ax student-designed majors. Undergrads report that departments in economic biology, chemistry, religion, philosophy, and English are all “very good,” wi academics that “are challenging indeed, but not to the point where they inte fere with all the other enjoyable aspects of life here.” Professors are exempla of exclusive, small-school pedagogy; they “are always willing to chat abo classes, mternship possibilities, future jobs, graduate school, further readin to be done and just about life.” This is because “Teaching is their ma priority, and as a result, they have an invested interest in their students th facilitates meaningful and personal relationships.” Another student adds, “TI feeling of conununity fostered at Bates is unparalleled. The students are tru welcoming, and the professors seem to really enjoy their jobs. The administratic really gives the students a say in what happens at their college.”

Life

“You can really develop into a complete person at Bates through involvemer in athletics, community service, and supportive relationships with faculty an staff. At Bates you don’t have to choose between activities; you can do it all you decide that is what you want.” Another undergrad adds, “I can’t think a single person who isn’t busy 24 hours a day but by choice. People fifi up the lives with things that are important to them, whether it be academics, sport student govermnent, political activism, outdoor activities, or clubs. Many pec ple can’t choose just one.” “Student organizations are easy to become involve in here. For instance, anyone, regardless of experience or major, may try out fc a play, and most likely will land a part.” Students also love outdoor activitie especially “skiing at Sunday River in the winter,” but also “varsity or clu sports, which even those who aren’t quite athletic enjoy. Bates really emphi sizes an overall health of mind and body.” Parties “are quite common on th weekends, especially in the wood-frame houses that serve as one housin option.” While “There isn’t much to do in the Lewiston-Auburn area,” thE hardly matters because “Bates does an excellent job of providing entertair ment on the weekends for students.” As one undergrad puts it, “Studeni rarely leave campus for the weekends; no one wants to leave because there i so much going on here!” When students feel they just have to get away, “Bate pays for buses to nearby cities like Freeport, Portland, and Boston.”

Student Body

Far from big-city pressures, Bates students can afford the luxury of being “laid- back and willing to take time to chat with friends over coffee, read the newspaper, go to plays, become engaged in the community, and be active politically. Students value not only the academic experience they are offered at Bates, but take advantage of other [facets] of learning.” The student body includes “a lot of pseudo-hippies who cruise around campus pedaling their junkyard bikes with their Birkenstocked feet while toting their Nalgenes, who then spend their holidays in palatial mansions,” and also has its share of “New Englander Ralph Lauren—wearing preppies.” One student explains, “Bates combines hippies with Cape Cod kids, athletes with intellectuals. Everyone is a dork in his or her own way, and everyone’s passionate about something ridiculous, and totally unpredictable.” Students speculate that “Bates has one of the more vocal gay/bisexual populations out there,” and proudly report that “straight students (even those who might come in with some prejudices in this regard) interact with them freely and openly. This is one instance where one really sees Bates overcoming prejudice.”

ADMISSIONS

Very irnportantfactors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, class rank, extracurricular activities, interview, level of applicant’s interest, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record, talent) ability. Other factors considered include: Alumni) ae relation, first generation, geographical residence, racial/ethnic status, standardized test scores, state residency, volunteer work, work experience. TOEFL required of allinternational
applicants. High school diploma is required, and CED is not accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 math, 3 science (2 science labs), 2 foreign language, 3 social studies. Academic nnits recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science (3 science labs), 4 foreign language, 4 social studies.

The Inside Word

While holding its applicants to lofty standards, Bates strives to adopt a personal approach to the admissions process. Officers favor qualitative information and focus more on academic rigor, essays, and recommendations than CPA and test scores. They seek students who look for challenges and take advantage of opportunities in the classroom and beyond. Interviews are strongly encouraged—candidates who opt out may place themselves at a disadvantage.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, Noncustodial PROFILE, Business/Farm Supplement. Regular filing deadline is February 1. e Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as n as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell nt, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FEEL Unsubsidized ord, FEEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, state loans. Applicants will be ed of awards on or about April 1. Federal Work-Study Program available. ututional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are good.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

"BATES College is widely recognized as one of the finest liberal arts colleges in the nation. The curriculum and faculty challenge students to develop the essential of critical assessment, analysis, expression, aesthetic sensibility, and hide- Lent thought. Founded by abolitionists in 1855, Bates graduates have always ded men and women from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. Bates ly values its study abroad programs, unique calendar (4-4-1), and the many rtunities available for one-on-one collaboration with faculty through semi- research, service-learning, and the capstone experience of senior thesis. :urricular life at Bates is rich; most students participate in club or varsity rts; many participate in performing arts; and almost all students participate one of more than 100 student-run clubs and organizations. More than two- of alumni enroll in graduate study within 10 years.
Bates College Admissions Staff reads applications very carefully; the high 1 record and the quality of writing are of particular importance. licants are strongly encouraged to have a personal interview, either on ‘us or with an alumni representative. Students who choose not to inter- may place themselves at a disadvantage in the selection process. Bates tours, interviews and information sessions throughout the summer and h-op-ins are welcome for tours and information sessions. Please call to schedule an interview.

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BARNARD COLLEGE

BARNARD COLLEGE

3009 BROADWAY, NEW YORK, NY 10027. ADMISSIONS: 212-854-2014 FAX: 212-854-6220
FINANCIAL AID: 212-854-2154 E-MAIL: ADMISSIONS@BARNARD.EDU WEBSITE: WWW.BARNARD.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Barnard College, the all-women liberal arts school associated with Coluj University, “offers students the best of both worlds: The seclusion and infix of a small liberal arts college within a tremendous research university and of the greatest cities in the world.” Women here explain that “because Barna students have complete cross registration privileges at Columbia, full access all of its resources and libraries, and upon graduation receive a degree from university, we enjoy the full benefits of an Ivy League education, without punishment of having to take Columbia’s core curriculum, pass a swim test, eat at the lousy Columbia dining room.” Students here also get more of small-college experience than do their Columbia peers; one student expla “While the Columbia professors can be arrogant and pompous, most of Barnard professors are really nice, down-to-earth people.” Administrators “unequivocally dedicated to finding rapid, individualized solutions to s dents’ problems.” Because the school is in New York City, “There are amaz opportunities here; the city really is our learning lab!” In short, “Barnard is r ly great as a small school to act as your home base. From here, you can expl the university and the city as much as you want. You have to take the initiati but if you do, you can find a way to do anything you want. And Barnard is supportive, you’ll be able to find someone on campus who’s willing to help.”

Life

“Life at school is dominated by studies.” Undergraduates agree that “most s dents here spend at least 60 percent of their week on schoolwork.” Still, to degree allowed by their academic workload, “Most undergraduates make a c scious effort to take advantage of NYC through internships, nightlife, muse and exhibits. Many of us love to just spend an afternoon walking dots Broadway and shopping.” The campus is a magnet for high-powered speak and prestigious events; one student reports, “There are always raffles or Icc going on that are highly attended. In the past year, Janeane Carofalo, Jo Edwards, Anna Quindlen, and Alice Walker have spoken on campus, to name few.” Barnard is located in Morningside Heights, “a neighborhood that thriv very much on the college community.” Students here miss out a bit on the c sic college experience, but they don’t mind; one undergrad explains, “Ba feels that since we are in the city they don’t need to create a community for Therefore, occasionally I feel like I’m just living in the city and taking classes. It’ definitely worth it, though, and my friends and I make our own college touch Women here also warn that “Barnard’s facilities could use drastic remodelin With the exception of a few recently renovated lecture spaces, the classrooms in need of major technological and aesthetic updates. New resident halls need be built because many of the existing buildings are too old.”

Student Body

Barnard, like its hometown, is a magnet for the idiosyncratic. One stud explains, “New York is a place that allows people to be anyone they want to You can wear a zebra-striped bikini in the middle of winter on a snow-cove street here and people would hardly look twice. . . because we go to school such an eclectic place, I don’t think it’s possible to describe a ‘typical’ Barna student.” Some here try all the same; they tell us that Barnard students a “driven, intelligent, cosmopolitan young women who come from every corn of the country and throughout the world, from different socioeconomic back grounds, and varying life experiences.” Because of a dual degree program wi the Jewish Theological Seminary “there are many Orthodox Jews here” wh “typically socialize only with other Orthodox Jews.” There’s also a large, le insular Asian population. There are “many feminists and lesbians, too, but fewer than one might expect.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record. Important factors considered include: Class rank, standardized test scores, talent/ability volunteer work. Other factors considered include: Alun-ini/ae relation, first generation, geographical residence, interview 1 level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, work experience. SAT and SAT Subject Tests or ACT required; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma or equivalent is not required. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 3 math, 3 science (2 science labs), 3 foreign language, 3 history.

The Inside Word

As at many top colleges, early decision applications have increased at Barnard—although the admissions standards are virtually the same as for their regular admissions cycle. The college’s Admissions Staff is open and accessible, which is not always the case at highly selective colleges with as long and impressive a tradition of excellence. The Admissions Committee’s expectations are high, but their attitude reflects a true interest in who you are and what’s on your mind. Students have a much better experience throughout the admissions process when treated with sincerity and respect—perhaps this is why Barnard continues to attract and enroll some of the best students in the country

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, Noncustodial PROFILE, institution’s own financial aid form, state aid form, Business/Farm Supplement, parent’s individual, corporate, and/or partnership federal income tax returns, Regular filing deadline is February 1. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/rants offered: Pell Crant, SEOC, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, state loans, college/university loans from institutional funds. Applicants will be notified of awards on or about March 31.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“Barnard College is a small, distinguished liberal arts college for women that is affiliated with Columbia University and located in the heart of New York City. The college enrolls women from all over the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. More than 30 countries, including France, England, Hong Kong, and Creece, are also represented in the student body. Students pursue their academic studies in over 40 majors and are able to cross register at Columbia University.
“Applicants for the Fall 2008 entering class must submit scores from the SAT Reasoning Test and two SAT Subject Tests of their choice, or the ACT with the Writing component.

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BARD COLLEGE

BARD COLLEGE

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS, ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, NY 12504 • ADMISSIONS: 845-758-7472 • FAX: 845-758-5208
FINANCIAL AID: 845-758-7526 • E-MAIL: AOMISSION@BARD.EDU • WEBSUUE: WWW.BARD.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Bard College, a small school that excels in the liberal and fine arts, takes “progressive approach” to academics, allowing students “the opportunity control your own education and learn more than you would at most other ac demit institutions.” It doesn’t make for a walk in the park, though; studies claim that the workload can get heavy, “But if you’re passionate about you classes, as most people here are, time often goes quickly as you study. This not the place for anyone who is not intellectually motivated.” A “relaxed, pr sure-free environment” makes Bard “a great place to learn” and takes some the stress out of the hard work, as do the “great professors, who are passion ate about the subjects they teach and have often just written a book about material in a class they are currently teaching.” Bard doesn’t do as much hand holding as do comparable liberal arts schools; here “The academics rely heavily on the motivation of the individual student,” although “Once you beg coming up with your own special projects and supplementing the recuing reading, professors bend over backward to help you.” The relaxed atrophic does have its downside, though; students claim that “things are extremely d orgaited, and you can easily find yourself being told five different thin from five different people.”

Life

“People are really involved, both inside and outside of the classroom” at Bar where “There is a really active club life. We have everything from U International Student Organization to the Surrealist Training Circus and U Children’s Expressive Arts Project. There are always dance, theater, music, ax art events every weekend,” and “The shows are really popular, both those the axe student-run and those put on by professionals.” Bard undergrads al indulge in” a lot of after-hours discussion about what we’re all doing in class My friends and I talk about experiments, theories, literature, and various api tic/scientific installations.” The Bard campus “is gorgeous, so some people take advantage of amazing hiking and outdoor sports. Other people enjoy( Blythewood, a hill that overlooks the Catskills, in a more passive fashion, so bathing or lounging with friends.” Students tell us that they “always feel as here, even walking in the middle of the night.” Bard’s party scene is primary confined to weekends; one student explains, “People party a lot on the wee ends but during the week everyone seems to be working.” The quaint towns the surround Bard appeal to some, but many prefer “the 2-hour train ride to Ne York City. It’s convenient when you have nothing else to do on the weekend.’

Student Body

“Hippies, hipsters, and geek chic” are common sights on the Bard campus, are “people who have that ‘I’m on the cutting edge of underground fashion look.” However, while Bard might appear to be “all about fight designer jeans indie rock, and everything else NYC or LA,” the reality is “There are really lot of normal college kids here—people seem to think everyone here was social outcast in high school, but most people here are friendly, social, an pretty normal (although certainly a bit cerebral).” Undergrads tend to b “politically conscious and left-wing-activist types.” One student notes, “F you’re uncreative or conservative you probably wouldn’t fit in. Other than that just about anything works.” Another agrees, “A large percentage of people an extremely talented and creative and express themselves best through creativi writing, music, art, dance, or theater.” In short, Bard is about “a lot of kid being different together.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, recommendation(s), rigor of cindery school record, talent/ability. Important factors considered include:
volunteer work, work experience. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ae diction, class rank, first generation, geographical residence, interview, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, religious affiliation/commitment, andradite test scores, state residency. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic nits recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science (3 science labs), 4 foreign language, 4 social studies, 4 history.

The Inside Word

because Bard boasts healthy application numbers, it is in a position to concentrate on matchmaking. To that end, Admissions Officers seek students with dependent and inquisitive spirits. Applicants who exhibit academic ambit while extending their intellectual curiosity beyond the realm of the classroom are particularly appealing. Successful candidates typically have several honors and Advanced Placement courses on their transcripts, as well as strong titers of recommendation and well-written personal statements.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, state aid form, business/Farm Supplement. Regular filing deadline is February 15. The rinceton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-bused scholarships/grants offered: Pelt Grant, SEOG, late scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan 11 offered: FEEL Subsidized Stafford, FEEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FEEL PLUS, èderal Perkins Loan, college loans from institutional funds (for international ludents only). Applicants will be notified of awards on or about April 1.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

alliance with Rockefeller University, the renowned graduate scientific ?arch institution, gives Bardians access to Rockefeller’s professors and lab- tories and to places in Rockefeller’s Summer Research Fellows Program. nost all our math and science graduates pursue graduate or professional dies; 90 percent of our applicants to medical and health professional schools accepted. le Globalization and International Affairs (BGTA) Program is a residential gram in the heart of New York City that offers undergraduates a unique ortunity to undertake specialized study with leading practitioners and olars in international affairs and to gain internship experience with ?rnational-affairs organizations. Topics in the curriculum include human its, international economics, global environmental issues, international jusmanaging international risk, and writing on international affairs, among ers. Internships/tutorials are tailored to students’ particular fields of study.
udent dormitory and classroom facilities are in Bard Hall, 410 West Fiftyith Street, a newly renovated H -story building near the Lincoln Center trict in New York City.
sd College does not require SAT scores, new or old, to be submitted for nissions consideration. Students may choose to submit scores, and, if sub- ted, we will consider them in the context of the overall application.”

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BABSON COLLEGE

BABSON COLLEGE

LUTHER UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION CENTER, BABSON PARK, MA 02457 • ADMISSIONS: 781-239-5522 • FAX: 781-239-4135
FINANCIAL AID: 781-239-4219 • E-MAIL: UGRADADMISSION@BABSON.EDU • WEEBSITE: WWW.BABSON.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

If you already know anything about Babson, you probably know that at this small school in the suburbs of Boston, “everything is related to business. So if you don’t like business, you should not even think about coming here.” Indeed Babson has one of the best known and most respected undergraduate business programs in the country It begins with the Foundations of Management am Entrepreneurship (FME) freshman year, during which students work in group: to conceive and launch a (hopefully) profitable small business. This segues into the sophomore year in which students participate in an integrated experience that includes instruction in core business disciplines like accounting, marketin8 and finance, among others. By nearly all accounts the curriculum is extremely challenging, and the severe grade curve based on an average of 2.7 comes as shock to some. But most students feel that although “the homework tends to b a lot compared to most of my friends at other business schools.. . we receive better education.” In large part that’s because “Many of the professors have started or still run very successful companies,” and they share their invaluable “industry experience” in the classroom. At least business professors do. “The liberal arts teachers vary a lot more in quality.” By and large, the administration receives average marks, but most students don’t focus on any administrative shortcomings. “At the end of the day, if you want to be a successful entrepreneur or business person, Babson is the best place for you.”

Life

The “business boot camp” that is Babson is not known for its social life. Dunn8 the week, “People are consumed by work, and are constantly concentrating or their future. On the weekends people socialize a lot because they need a break from the stress of the week.” The student body splinters into distinct factions when it’s time to unwind: “American kids typically party on campus more often, the athletes will party together, frats do their thing, and the international rich kids go in town and are scarce on the weekends since they live at the clubs in Boston.” Some undergrads cross-pollinate groups, of course, but these are generally where the lines are drawn. Students who choose to party on campus, however, are well aware that “the campus police [referred to locally as ‘Babo’] and Office of Campus Life take a strong stance against parties and alcohol” and that Babo is quite adept at breaking up unauthorized get-togethers. School- sanctioned on-campus activities include “‘Knight Parties’ on one Saturday night during each month (a club-like atmosphere with a DJ, dancing, and lots of free food and drinks, and beer for 2l-year-olds).” Additionally, “The on- campus pub is fun and a common hangout for upperclassmen.” For those who feel the lure of Boston, a car definitely makes getting there easier, but “The school also offers a bus that runs into Boston on the weekends for students.”

Student Body

At this small business school where “Professionalism is a part of your grade,” a “typical student is pretty well off, dressed well no matter what their style Is, and pretty intelligent on business and similar subjects.” Given its business focus, some students speculate that “Babson is probably the only school in
Massachusetts where Republicans are in the majority.” Noticeable cliques include the BISOs (Babson International Students), the athletes, and the Greeks, but regardless of the groups students fall Into, nearly all c/them constantly think about the next great business idea, internship, or great job at firms like Lehman Brothers, KPMG, Ernst & Young, etc.” It should come as no surprise, then, that “we are short on hippies, punks, and extreme liberals. If you fall into those categories, people will still accept you, but eventually you’ll probably want to strangle the rest of us and will transfer!’ No matter what you start out as, the consensus seems to be that 4 years of “Babson will transform you from a driven/motivated individual into a lethal business machine.”

ADMINSSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores. Important factors considered include: Class rank, extracurricular activities. Other factors considered include: Alunmi/ae relation, first generation, geographical residence, interview, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, state residency, talent/ability, volunteer work, work experience. SAT or ACT required; SAT and SAT Subject Tests or ACT recommended; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science (3 science labs), 4 foreign language, 2 social studies, 2 Master 1 precalculus.

The Inside Word

Though Babson offers a unique educational opportunity their admissions practices are as traditional as they come. Personal qualities and extracurricular activities are taken into consideration, but the best way to impress a Babson Admissions Officer is through strong academic performance. Both scholastic rigor and the demonstration of intellectual curiosity are extremely important. Additionally, applicants will want to focus on their essay—writing ability is viewed as vital at Babson.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, Noncustodial PROFILE, Business/Farm Supplement, Federal Income Tax Returns, W-2s and Verification Worksheet. Regular filing deadline is February 15. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, state loans. Applicants will be notified of awards on or about April 1.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“In addition to theoretical knowledge, Babson College is dedicated to providing its students with hands-on business experience. The Foundations of Management and Entrepreneurship (FMF) and Management Consulting Field Experience (MCFE) are two prime examples of this commitment. During the FME, all freshmen are placed into groups of 30 and actually create their own businesses that they operate until the end of the academic year. The profits of each FME business are then donated to the charity of each group’s choice. “MCFE offers upperclassmen the unique and exciting opportunity to work as actual consultants for private companies and/or nonprofit organizations in small groups of three to five. Students receive academic credit for their work as well as invaluable experience in the field of consulting. FME and MCFE are just two of the ways Babson strives to produce business leaders with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

“Babson College requires freshmen applicants to submit scores from either the new SAT or the ACT with Writing component. The school recommends that students also submit results from SAT Subject Tests.”

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AUSTIN COLLEGE

AUSTIN COLLEGE

900 NORTH GRAND AVENUE, SUITE 6N, SHERMAN, TX 75090-4400 • ADMISSIONS: 903-813-3000 • FAX: 903-813-3198
FINANCIAL AID: 903-813-2900 • E-MAIL: ADMISSION@AUSTINCOLLEGE.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.AUSTINCOLLEGE.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Whether they are biochemists-in-training or budding musicians, “challenging” is the word most undergraduates use to describe the academics at Austin College. Among all of the demanding disciplines at this small liberal arts school in way-north Texas, the premed curriculum has a rep for being especially so. (Nearly 10 percent of this school’s graduates attend medical school after graduation.) The work here may be tough, but “Class sizes are small, the teachers are extremely well qualified (no TAs), and people really care about you as a person.” When push comes to shove in the academic arena, the “Academic Skills Center is an excellent resource, and other students will often volunteer their assistance on school mailers.” Alternatively, students can seek help from their professors, who “are more like really wise friends” than aloof academics. Students can stop by during office hours or wait until they’re invited over for a meal, which, students tell us, happens from time to time. Other unique attributes of an AC education include an Academic Integrity Policy that students pledge to follow before classes begin. Fans like it because they “don’t have to worry about other students cheating. As a matter of fact, my teachers sometimes leave the room after handing out quizzes with no reaction from the class.” As far as the administration goes, “Oscar Page (the school’s president, affectionately known as ‘0 Page’) is the most down-to-earth guy ever; he’s often in the cafeteria eating with students.”

Life

“We go to Starbucks and Wal-Mart a lot because there’s not much to do in Sherman.” According to students, “Sherman is a boring city with little shopping, no fine dining, and no outdoor parks worth exploring.” To make things worse, “There is no night life.” This does not mean, however, that the resourceful students at AC do not find ways to divert themselves from their studies when they need a little R&R. They mainly line up for two kinds of fun: The kind offered by the Greeks, which usually means partying, and the kind offered by groups like Christian Intervarsity, which usually means something a little more wholesome. On the one hand, “Greek parties are fun and a popular weekend activity. Ninety-nine percent of them are open to the entire student body.” On the other, activities sponsored by Intervarsity include “box- sledding [down a snow-covered hill], Ultimate Frisbee, video scavenger hunts, and community service projects.” In addition, a “local dance hall, Calhoun’s; local parties; free movies on campus; art exhibitions; choral and music recitals; guest musicians every Thursday; varsity athletic events to watch; or intramural games to compete iii” round out the busy scene on campus. Fun further afield can be found in Dallas, an hour-and-a-half drive away, or at “the lake campus [recreational property owned by the college] out at Lake Texoma.” Be mindful that “a car is required to get anywhere, because nothing useful is within walking distance of the school.”

Student Body

The typical undergraduate at AC is often “one who started off premed but ended up doing something else.” He or she is “open-minded, casual, cares about the community around them, works hard for [his or her] grades, and is overly involved in school organizations and committees.” “Many are religious.” Contrary to what such devoutness might suggest, AC undergrads mainly feel that “for a Texas school, it is very liberal.” “There are not that many students who are from states other than Texas and Oklahoma,” and while “Most students here are White and middle-class,” minorities are in no way excluded. Indian students are well-represented, as “The Indian Cultural Association is the largest group on campus, made up of more than Indian students, followed by the Muslim Students Association, and then by Los Amigos and Black Expressions.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, rigor of secondary school record. Important factors considered include: Application essay, character/personal qualities, class rank, extracurricular activities, recommendation(s), standardized test scores, talent/ability. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ae relation, first generation, geographical residence, interview, racial/ethnic status, religious affiliation/commitment, state residency, volunteer work, work experience. SAT or ACT required; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 math, 3 science (2 science labs), 2 foreign language, 2 social studies, 1 academic elective, 1 fine art. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science (3 science labs), 3 foreign language, 3 social studies, 2 fine art.

The Inside Word

Candidates hoping for an acceptance letter from Austin should keep a rigorous academic schedule. The college covets students who challenge themselves and Admissions Officers are prone to prefer students who have slightly lower GPAs but have proven themselves in difficult courses. Of course, applicants are more than just statistics and counselors are also looking for caring, committed students who want to contribute to the Austin community. An interview is strongly encouraged.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, institution’s own financial aid form. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FEEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, state loans, college/university loans from institutional funds, alternative loans through various sources. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about March 1. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are good.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“Students visiting Austin College immediately sense something different about the campus community. People look you in the eye. They call you by name. They want to see you succeed.

“That success comes from a strong academic foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, plus added opportunities like international study, January Term, and close involvement with committed faculty who become your partners in learning.
“The comments on these pages from students make it clear that there is no ‘typical’ student at Austin College. Students can retain their individuality and still fit in. Our students value and respect differences of background, style, and belief. Campus organizations offer activities for all interests. “Austin College prepares you to do more than make a living. It prepares you to make a difference in the place you work, in the community you call home, in the friends you make, and in the way you live. Service to others is an important part of campus life. “Visit and discover Austin College’s legacy of learning, leadership, and lasting values for youself.

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AUBURN UNIVERSITY

AUBURN UNIVERSITY

202 MARY MARTIN HALL, Ausum, AL 36849-5149 • ADMISSIONS: 334-844-4080 • FAx: 334-844-6179
FINANCIAL AID: 334-844-4367 • E-MAIL: ADMISSIONS@AUBURN.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.AUBURN.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Auburn University, a school that “is about family, traditions, and education,” the sort of place that inspires “a strong sense of pride in the past and future o [the school].” In fact Auburn’s “traditions and sense of family continue eve after graduation.” These traditions are numerous, beloved, and often involv football. The education isn’t half bad here, either; Auburn numbers among i many academic assets “a good business school, one of the best vet schools, and one of the best architecture schools in the nation.” The school also excels in engi neering, education, and communications. Students enrolled in Auburn’s honor program enjoy “priority registration [and] smaller classes” that are almost always taught by professors—not TAs. Speaking of Auburn’s professors, stu. dents appreciate that they are “readily available,” “super friendly,” and “always willing to help no matter what size the class.” They are “concerned with each student’s progress,” and “always willing to work with [students] td teach the curriculum and how it applies to [their] life.” Academically, “As with any school, you get out of it what you put into it. You can put in the bare minimum and be happy with your C, or you can go to class every day, study hard, and make an A. No one here is going to baby you. You won’t get reminders not to miss class, and teachers won’t hunt you down for make-ups.”

Life

Auburn is “an ideal college town” with “enough bars and such to keep one4 occupied but small enough to where there is a definite sense of conimunity.” The town also offers “movies, bowling, a park,” and the attractions ofi Birmingham, which “isn’t that far away.” Auburn might not be a good fit for the sort of big-city types who “lament about how few options we have for enter-; tainment, and how food consists [solely] of pizza, chicken tenders (on every corner), and subs,” but everyone else seems to love it. They also love that the campus is “beautiful” and “life is slow paced—full of sweet tea and Southeni food.” Be warned, though: Auburn “is a drinking town with a football prob-J 1cm.” “Football seems to dominate the Fall semester here. It’s a huge deal, and it’s when most big parties and events [take place]. If you hate football, this might not be the place for you.” In the oft-season, students take advantage of Auburn’s “very popular” outdoor activities, and when they want to head off- campus, nearby Atlanta is a “great stop for city life and entertainment.”

Student Body

Auburn students share “an incredible sense of pride” that “most who haye never been here will never comprehend. Ask any Auburn student or alurnn[us], and they’ll generally tell you that Auburn ranks among God, country, family, and the South as things most beloved.” Many students “love how Auburn is:
deeply Republican when most colleges are quite banal in their liberalism,” and “prides itself in not being politically correct, and this is not due to ignorance.” i Not everyone at this large university fits this description—”At a school this• large, there are people from all walks of life”—but a significant number of students do, and they set the tone for the campus. While “slightly conservative,” Southern,” “White, Protestant” students may dominate the student body here, there are also “Black, Asian, and also a lot of foreign exchange students [at Auburn).” Whatever their background, Auburn students across the board “are very open-minded, and accept everyone for who they are.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores. Important factors considered include: State residency. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ ae relation, application essay, class rank, extracurricular activities, first generation, geographical residence, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, recommendation(s), talent/ability, volunteer work. SAT or ACT required; TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GET) is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 math, 2 science, 3 social studies. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 3 math, 3 science, 1 foreign language, 4 social studies.

The Inside Word

Auburn Admissions Officers crunch the numbers, sorting students according to high school CPA and standardized test scores, then offering admission to all who qualify from the top of the list on down. The school also looks at “fit” and the student’s potential to make contributions to the Auburn community, but with an 80 percent admit rate, it’s safe to say that these factors only come into play for marginal candidates, and then only to mitigate poor grades or test scores.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, institution’s own financial aid form. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOC, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FEEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, college/university loans from institutional funds. Off- campus job opportunities are good.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“Auburn University is a comprehensive land-grant university serving Alabama and the nation. The university is especially charged with the responsibility of enhancing the economic, social, and cultural development of the state through its instruction, research, and extension programs. In all of these programs, the university is committed to the pursuit of excellence. The university assumes an obligation to provide an environment of learning in which the individual and society are enriched by the discovery, preservation, transmission, and application of knowledge; in which students grow intellectually as they study and do research under the guidance of competent faculty, and in which the faculty develop professionally and contribute fully to the intellectual life of the institution, community, and state. This obligation unites Auburn University’s continuing commitment to its land-grant traditions and the institution’s role as a dynamic and complex, comprehensive university. “Applicants for Fall 2008 must submit scores from the SAT or ACT (with or without the Writing components from either test).”

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ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

P0 Box 870112, TFMPE, AZ 85287-0112 • ADMISSIONS: 480-965-7788 • FAX: 480-965-3610
FINANCIAL AID: 480-965-3355 • E-MAIL: ASKASU@ASU.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.ASU.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

“Perfect weather, cheaper tuition,” and “a great academic environment,” bring many students to Arizona State University. With over 38,000 undergraduates on campus, any description of ASU has to begin with its sheer size. As one student sums up, “Arizona State University is an enormous institution,” and that means “Variety is inevitable.” There are over 100 majors to choose from in more than 20 colleges and schools, so students have access to “tons of resources, and you can study whatever you want.” Variety also comes in the form of teacher quality; “Some professors are fantastic, others are ridiculous—its luck of the draw.” That said, students generally agree that “professors are always available and wffling to listen, as long as students make the effort to meet with them.” Getting one-on-one time with professors isn’t the only sphere where a little student initiative goes a long way. The secret to overall success at ASU seems to be “tak[ingl charge of your own education.” Because of the school’s size, administrators have to “nm ASU like a business,” which means “Some of the personal touch is lost.” But if students “feel like just a number [when dealing with the bureaucracy] at the university level,” at the college/school level, administrators “are very easy to meet.” When it comes to gripes, many students list the fact that “academic advisors are not very helpful” at the very top.

Life

Students note that “the administration is doing [its] all to diminish the party school image ASU has been known for,” although many are skeptical of the success of these efforts. One student echoes the feelings of many of his fellow undergraduates when he states, “Partying is a big part of the ASU experience.” Intercollegiate sporting events are “very popular with students,” and while only a small minority of students joins frats and sororities, the Greek scene on campus is very visible and “active.” But parties aren’t all ASU has to offer. There is also “excellent nightlife in the valley,” including Mlll Avenue, with its movie theaters and “easy access to bars, shopping, and eating places”; College Avenue, offering “many campus stores and more food options”; and Old Town Scottsdale, “which also has shopping, clubs, [and] fine dining.” “Friendly, diverse, and inexpensive.. . Tempe is a great place to go to college,” but it can be “difficult to go places off campus if you don’t have a car.” Perhaps one of the nicest benefits of ASU’s Tempe location is that “most of the school year it is pool weather.”

Student Body

It’s “Barbie and Ken go to college” at ASU. Simply put, ASU is “a school overflowing with beautiful people.” The campus’ numerous “California types” are “concerned with material things,” but are “normally very friendly” and “basically good-hearted.” Students say they value “fashion and the virtue of exercising,” and they “like to party:” While many students are “not religious,” there is a “mutual respect of individuals among everyone.” Sprinkled amongst these bronzed gods and goddesses are a “lot of international students, and the usual mix of people who have like monks,” as well as a few “students over the age of 30.” Yet even if there’s consensus on what the typical ASU student is like, it’s worth stating the obvious: “This campus is so big [that] if you can’t find someone to fit in with here, you’re not going to anywhere.” However you categorize them, most of ASU’s students are “open-minded and polite.” “Racial, ethnic, and sexual orientation [axe] not taboo subject[s] here.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, class rank, standardized test scores. Important factors considered include: State residency. SAT or ACT required; ACT with Writing component recommended. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and CEO is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 4 math, 3 science (3 science labs), 2 foreign language, I social studies, 1 history, 1 fine arts.

The Inside Word

Numbers count for a lot at ASU. You have excellent odds of acceptance if you meet the minimum curriculum, CPA, and standardized test requirements. These minimums are slightly higher for out-of-state students. Additionally, three of the undergraduate colleges at ASU (business, engineering, and journalism and mass communications) have additional admission requirements; we suggest visiting ASU’s website to find out what they are. ASU awards a great many merit-based scholarships. To be eligible for many of them, you must be an Arizona resident and apply for admission to the school by December 1.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Crant, SEOC, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid, Federal Nursing Scholarship. Loan aid offered: Direct Subsidized Stafford, Direct Unsubsidized Stafford, Direct PLUS, FEEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are good.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“ASU is a place where students from all 50 states and abroad come together to live and study in one of the nation’s premier collegiate environments. Situated in metropolitan Phoenix, ASU boasts a physical setting and climate second to none. ASU offers more than 250 academic programs of study leading to the BS and BA in 19 undergraduate colleges and schools. Many of these programs have received national recognition for their quality of teaching, innovative curricula, and outstanding facilities. Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University, the only honors college in the Southwest that spans all academic disciplines, provides unique and challenging experiences for its students and was recently named as one of three honors colleges that offer “an Ivy League—style education minus the sticker shock” by Reader’s Digest.

“In addition to ASU’s Tempe campus, ASU offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs at campuses throughout the metropolitan Phoenix area: the Polytechnic campus in the East Valley, the West campus in northwest Phoenix, and the Downtown Phoenix campus.

“ASU does not require the submission of either ACT of SAT scores in order to be reviewed for undergraduate admission, however, test scores are needed for merit scholarship consideration and class placement. Presently, the essay portions of either exam are not required in order to be admitted.”

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AMHERST COLLEGE

AMHERST COLLEGE

CAMPUS Box 2231, P0 Box 5000, AMHEIZST, MA 01002 • ADMISSIONS: 413-542-2328 • Fax: 413-542-2040
FINANCIAL AID: 413-542-2296 • E-MAIL: ADMISSION@AMHERST.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.AMHERST.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

At Amherst College, a small, elite liberal arts school in western Massachusetts, “The academic experience is well balanced, comprehensive, and tailored to the desires and needs of each individual student.” Students truly get exactly what they want because “There are no core requirements. Every person in every class . . is enthusiastic about the subject and wants to learn.” Students love this set-up, telling us that “the open curriculum guarantees that every student in every class really wants to be there, which makes a huge difference in the liveliness of discussion.” Academics “are extremely challenging without being overly burdensome,” in part because support networks are so strong. Students “really develop personal relationships with professors, which makes classes that much more enjoyable.” Students also appreciate that they “get all the things [they) need and want (services, advice, etc.) when [they) need and want them.” As one student puts it, “Amherst College is a small family. Everyone here wants you to succeed; however, it’s up to you to reach out for that guidance. If you knock, Amherst shall respond.” Professors “all have a great sense of humor” and “are engaging and eclectic.” As one student writes, “Even in introductory courses, professors literally bounce off the walls with enthusiasm for the subject.” The results tell the story; Nearly three-quarters of all Amherst alumni proceed to postgraduate study within 5 years of graduation.

Life

“Life is usually busy” at Amherst, where “People are generally pretty involved.” Academics are demanding, but fortunately “Everyone is here for the same reason: to learn. We learn as much from each other as we do in the classroom because everyone is just so different and has a story to tell. I stay up till the wee hours of the morning with some of my dorm-mates sharing stories and ordering Antonio’s Pizza.” When they’re not working, students “are often playing sports” or “engaging in some other activity” Undergrads “love the academic culture of the Five Colleges area. You can go to music performances, plays, or poetry readings any night of the week.” As one student reports, “Events are happening all the time, and there is always something going on.. concerts, talks about Brazilian economics, West African dance shows, etc. Life here is comfortable and exciting.” A “free bus to get to other colleges and towns” makes it easy to access these events, even without a car. It’s not Only about personal enrichment here, though; while students “work hard throughout the week,” they “party on Thursday and Saturday.” Why not on Friday? “Because nearly one-third of the student body [are] athletes, parties are often thrown by various teams, but open to all. As a result Friday nights are pretty dead, since all the athletes are resting up for their games.”

Student Body

“It seems like there are many of your typical White, private school students from the New England area” at Amherst, but “Then there are [also) students from all over the United States and from other countries who are so diverse.” Most of these “typically well-rounded and motivated” undergraduates “played some sort of sport in high school, and a very large percentage play club or varsity sports at college.” These students are “witty, friendly, thoughtful, non-competitive, self-effacing, and know how to have a good time.”

While some tell us, “You could call a lot of the kids preppy,” others insist that the “conception of Amherst as preppy [is there], but it’s wrong.” Nearly everyone agrees that “Amherst is amazing because of its small size. It’s a really close- knit community where everyone is extremely open-minded and considerate.” According to another student, “1 love that [Amherst’s] students are politically aware and serious students but also willing to have a good time. The first thing that struck me about my school is how nice everyone is. The school has a reputation for being stuck-up, but I have not experienced that in the least.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, first generation, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores, talent/ability. Important factors considered include: Alumni/ae relation, class rank, volunteer work. Other factors considered include: Geographical residence, state residency, work experience. SAT and SAT Subject Tests or ACT required; ACT with Writing component recommended. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma or equivalent is not required. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 3 science (1 science lab), 4 foreign language, 2 social studies, 2 history.

The Inside Word

A $1 billion endowment allows Amherst to provide admitted students with generous financial aid packages. The school is deeply committed to economic diversity in the student body, increasing the number of working-class and low- income students in the Class of 2010 from 15 percent to 20 percent (New York Times, September 19, 2006). The school is also considering scaling back, or even doing away with, early decision admissions, which are believed to favor upper-income students.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE, Noncustodial PROFILE, Business/Farm Supplement, income documentation (Federal 7 Income Tax Return, W-2s). The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOC, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: Direct Subsidized • Stafford, Direct Unsubsidized Stafford, Direct PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, college/university loans from institutional funds. Applicants will be notified of • awards on or about April 1. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are good.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

Amherst College looks, above all, for men and women of intellectual promise who have demonstrated qualifies of mind and character that will enable them to take full advantage of the college’s curriculum. . . . Admission decisions aim to select from among the many qualified applicants those possessing the intellectual talent, mental discipline, and imagination that will allow them most fully to benefit from the curriculum and contribute to the life of the college and of society. Whatever the form of academic experience—lecture course, seminar, conference, studio, laboratory, independent study at various levels—intellectual a competence and awareness of problems and methods are the goals of the Amherst program, rather than the direct preparation for a profession.

‘Applicants must submit scores from the new SAT plus two SAT Subject Tests, or the old SAT plus three SAT Subject Tests.

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AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

4400 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, NORTHWEST, WASHINGTON, DC 20016-8001 • ADMISSIONS: 202-885-6000 • FAX: 202-885-1025
FIANCIAL AID: 202-885-6100 • E-MAIL: AFA@AMERICAN.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.AMERICAN.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

American University in Washington, DC boasts a “rigorous” and “very challenging” academic experience that offers students all the benefits of its location close to the political center of the country. The School of Public Affairs is nationally renowned, and “The international studies program is one of the best in
world.” There’s a “strong business school” too. “Aside from its location,” best thing about American University is its ability to offer the course catalog of a midsized university while maintaining the feel of a small liberal arts college. “Small classes” ensure that “discussion flows freely.” “Extremely accessible professors “love to teach” and “look forward to speaking with students an helping them in their academic careers.” It’s not uncommon for an AU faculty member to “have real-world experience with a major corporation, government agency, or international organization.” The “amazing” Career Center helps s dents to find “good jobs” and brings big-time recruiters to camp “Volunteering with a nonprofit organization” is also a common student activity Though the AU campus is “completely wireless,” “a few buildings are in ne of repair,” and many students think that the library could use some improvement. “The science facilities don’t need any TlC,” but only because “No one using them,” one student says.

Life

“The best thing about AU is if you want to do it, it’s here for you; if not, it won bother you.” A club exists “for just about every type of person you can
of.” Parties “are big on the weekends, but they don’t dominate campus life, and “The nightlife on and off campus is always active.” AU is located “a little ways outside of the downtown area,” but virtually everything is “just a short Metro ride away.” “There’s so much to do for fun in DC, it’s stunning,” asserts a sophomore. “Midnight trips to the national monuments” are popular, as are “touring the Smithsonian Museums for free, sampling ethnic food in Adam Morgan, and visiting trendy coffee shops” near Dupont Circle. Attendin “protests” is big, too, if that’s your bag. Back on campus, AU provides a plethora of speakers. Recent invitees have included Bob Dole, John Kerry, and “former presidents of several countries.” Of course, because of the school’s location, politics “infect the campus”: “Watching CNN” and “working on the Hill” are everyday activities for many students. “Social justice and community-service groups” are also “very popular.” “This school lives, breathes, eats, and sleeps politics,” explains one student. “When William Rehnquist died, I was at a fraternity party, and when we heard about it over half the party left to go watch the news.”

Student Body

American is not really a place for the “college-y college experience,” asserts one undergrad, though “It can be if that’s what you want.” “The atypical student is the norm”: The “passionate” and highly “eclectic” student population here runs the gamut from “hippies to hard-core young Republicans.” There are “pretty- boy frat guys looking for their next keg to conquer” and “political enthusiasts who love to debate the hottest issues.” There are “bookish students” and “pseudo-serious intellectuals.” You’ll find students of every socioeconomic level and “a good number of minorities.” One student says that “for every person who pops his collar, there is someone with blue hait” AU boasts a throng of international students, “a large gay population,” and lots of women: “Our female/male ratio is 60/40. I would not complain if we had more guys on campus,” laments a frustrated female. Not surprisingly, the biggest differences among students involve politics. “There is a huge amount of contention between the liberals and conservatives on campus,” observes a sophomore “The conservatives walk around like high and mighty warriors of truth, and the liberals walk around like they’re saving the world from the conservatives.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores. Important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, class rank, extracurricular activities, recommendation(s), volunteer work. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ae relation, character/personal qualities, first generation, geographical residence, interview, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, talent/ability, work experience. SAT or ACT required; SAT Subject Tests recommended; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and CED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 math, 2 science (2 science labs), 2 foreign language, 2 social studies, 3 academic electives. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 4 math, 4 science, 3 foreign language, 4 social studies, 4 academic electives.

The Inside Word

While DC is a popular locale for undergrads, it also has its fair share of topnotch universities. For that reason, American must compete for students with a number of area schools, so its admissions stats are relatively relaxed for applicants who have strong academic records. Nonetheless, American is a solid option, especially for those interested in government and international relations. Candidates with leadership experience are particularly appealing to Admissions Officers at AU

FIANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, institution’s own financial aid form. Regular filing deadline is February 15. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/rants offered: Pell Grant, SEOC, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Academic merit scholarships: Presidential Scholarships, Dean’s Scholarships, Leadership Scholarships, Phi Theta Kappa Scholarships (transfers only), Tuition Exchange Scholarships, United Methodist Scholarships, and other private/restricted scholarships are awarded by the Undergraduate Admissions Office. Most scholarships do not require a separate application and are renewable for up to 3 years if certain criteria are met. Loan aid offered: Direct Subsidized Stafford, Direct Unsubsidized Stafford, Direct PLUS, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, college/university loans from institutional funds, Applicants will be notified of awards on or about April 1.
FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

‘ideas, action, and service—at AU, you interact regularly with decision makers and leaders in every profession and corner of the globe. You’ll be academically challenged in a rich multicultural environment. Our expert teaching faculty provide a strong liberal arts education, characterized by small classes, use of cutting-edge technology, and an interdisciplinary curriculum in the
arts, education, humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Not just a political town, Washington, DC offers a variety of research, internship, and community service opportunities in every field. Our AU Abroad Program, with over 80 international locations, lets you expand your studies into international settings. The Princeton Review selected AU for the 2005 edition of America’s Best Value Colleges. AU was one of 77 schools, and the only one from DC, selected s a ‘best value’ for its combination of outstanding academics, moderate tuition, and financial aid packages.
‘AU requires all applicants graduating from high school in, or after, 2006 to take the new SAT or the ACT with the Writing section. Fall 2008 applicants are allowed to submit scores from the old versions of both tests as their best scores will be used in making admissions decisions.”

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ALLEGHENY COLLEGE

ALLEGHENY COLLEGE

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS, ALLEGHENY COLLEGE, MEADVILLE, PA 16335 • ADMISSIONS: 814-332-4351 • FAX: 814-337-0431
FINANCIAL AID: 800-835-7780 • E-MAIL: ADMISSIONS@ALLEGHENY.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.ALLECHENY.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

For students ready to hit the books hard, Allegheny College offers great rewards; one undergrad explains, “We have a huge workload here, with a lot of reading and a ton of writing. It really prepares you for graduate school and taking many upper-level courses at one time.” The experience also benefits those looking to move directly into the business world after graduation because of its “great opportunities in experiential learning.” As one student puts it, “Allegheny’s strengths are its ample amounts of opportunity to excel both in and out of the classroom. The college provides numerous internship opportunities in addition to solid career services.” Before they can reap the rewards of their degrees, though, Allegheny undergrads must complete a rigorous curriculum, one they praise for its “openness to individuality. It gave me the option of self-designing a major.” Professors at Allegheny “are personally interested not only in you as a student, but in your personal well-being as well. You can’t skip a class without a professor noticing and worrying about you, and you can be sure that they will go out of their way to help you whether or not you fall behind in class or are having a personal problem.” Students say a larger school could not provide this kind of “professor—student connection.” Administrators also integrate themselves wholly into the school community. One undergrad notes, “Students will greet the dean or president from across campus, and there is a great deal of interaction between administrators and students. No one is too important to make personal connections with students.”

Life

A heavy workload keeps Allegheny students very busy during the week, so much so that come the weekend, most look for a way “to relieve the stress caused by the demands of the school.” Sometimes that involves drinking, sometimes not. Students report that “provisions by the school to crack down on off-campus parties in the past year have made social life pretty dull,” making it harder—though certainly not impossible—to blow off some steam with a brew or four, Because of the new policy enforcement, “The greater portion of the campus community is more secluded from one another, with smaller groups of friends forming.” This is especially true in the winter months, “when many students seem to hibernate,” or hole up in the coffeehouse, “a hotspot for concerts, open mic nights, and general chillin.’ “The school’s newly renovated and expanded campus center has also increased late-night programming.” The campus is considerably more active “in the early fall and late spring months, during which campus-wide activities from sports to college-nm activities become much more common.” Hometown Meadville—which some describe as “a bit backward”—is a quiet, low- to middle-income town, some of whose locals “resent the students who pay all this money to go to school and drive around in nice cars and wear nice clothes,” according to Allegheny under- grads. As a result, students “band together to fight boredom” and “head up to Erie to go shopping or to Port Erie’s Bayfront district for nightlife.” Pittsburgh is an occasional destination, “but only for concerts or other big events.”

Student Body

“Everyone is involved in a variety of activities” at Allegheny, students report. “No one is just involved in religious life or just involved in Greek life. Therefore, it’s not hard to fit in somewhere.” One undergrad agrees: “We have athletes, sorority and fraternity members, very religious people, very artsy dreadlocked students, students heavily involved with the radio station and music department, etc. There are so many things to get involved in that it’s hard to classify students.” A common thread is that on this “politically opinionated campus, people can get pretty heated. Political and philosophical debates randomly occur.” When not involved in a hot-button conversation, just about everyone “is studious to the point that it nags them during the week.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, class rank, rigor of secondary school record. Important factors considered include: Character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, interview, recommendation(s), standardized test scores. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ac relation, application
• essay, first generation, geographical residence, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, talent/ability, volunteer work, work experience. SAT or ACT required; TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3
• math, 3 science, 2 foreign language, 3 social studies, 1 academic elective.

The Inside Word

Academic promise plays a large role in the admissions process at Allegheny. The college looks for students who go beyond their high school’s minimum requirements, particularly those who dabble in honors and Advanced Placement courses. Admissions Officers are known for their individualized approach—while standardized test scores and class rank factor significantly in their decisions, consideration is also given to personal character and extracurricular activities.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SLOG, Academic Competitiveness Grant, National SMART Grant, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid, Veterans Educational Benefits. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, private loans from commercial lenders. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about March 1.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“We’re proud of Allegheny’s beautiful campus and cutting-edge technologies,. and we know that our professors are leading scholars who pride themselves even more on being among the best teachers in the United States. Yet it’s our students who make Allegheny the unique and special place that it is.

“Allegheny attracts students with unusual combinations of interests, skills, and talents. How do we characterize them? Although it’s impossible to label our students, they do share some common characteristics. You’ll find an abiding passion for learning and life, a spirit of camaraderie, and shared inquiry that spans across individuals as well as areas of study. You’ll see over and over again such a variety of interests and passions and skills that, after a while, those unusual combinations don’t seem so unusual at all.

Allegheny is not for everybody. If you find labels reassuring, if you’re looking For a narrow technical training, if you’re in search of the shortest distance ‘etween point A and point B, then perhaps another college will be better for you.
‘But, if you recognize that everything you experience between points A and B will make you appreciate point B that much more; if you’ve noticed that when Life gives you a choice between two things, you’re tempted to answer both or ;imply yes; if you start to get excited because you sense there is a college willLng to echo the resounding yes, then we look forward to meeting you.

“Applicants for Fall 2008 are required to take either the new SAT or ACT (the new ACT Writing section is recommended but not required). If both tests are taken, we will use the better score of the two. The Writing score of both the SAT and ACT wifi be reviewed but will not be a major factor in admission decisions.”

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ALFRED UNIVERSITY

ALFRED UNIVERSITY

ALUMNI HALL, ONE SAXON DRIVE, ALFRED, NY 14802-1205 • ADMISSIONS: 607-871-2115 • FAX: 607-871-2198
FINANCIAL AID: 607-871-2159 • E-MML: ADMWWW@ALFRED.EDU • WEESITE: WWW.ALFRED.EDU

STUDENTS SAY

Academics

Alfred University is” a small school with a big heart.” The School of Engineerin and the School of Art and Design receive state ftinding, resulting in reduced tuition for both New Yorkers and out-of-state students (although state residenb receive a larger discount for the art school). Not surprisingly, Alfred is “known’ for its “great financial aid.” The School of Engineering is famous for its “ye9 strong” glass and ceramics program (in fact Alfred’s one of the few schools in th nation offering a degree in ceramic engineering). Students are also drawn to th business and English departments. Alfred provides a cozy community that stu dents, professors, and administrators enjoy. One student says, “There is excellen interaction between students and professors; and with small classes, the facu1t can devote more tune to each individual student.” Alfred is the kind of plao where “about half our professors, maybe more, want to go by first name.” Al agree that “professors know very much about what they are teaching” and “read out to students,” making them “very approachable.” Another student reports “Within a few months of being here, I had met the President of the university ant the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. I am now on a first-name basis with th1 President and the Dean of Students. I babysit the Dean of Students’ kids.” N wonder students tell us that “the level of personal connection here, all across th board, is exceptional.”

Life

Small-town life can be a rough go for college students, especially in the wintry landscape of upstate New York, but fortunately “Alfred provides desperately needed entertainment. The school seems to realize that its position in the world (an hour away from civilization) requires some extra effort as far as keeping the students from going stir-crazy, and they really pull through.” The school “is really good about bringing different performers and movies into town every weekend,” while “art shows, visiting lecturers in every division,” and “over 100 clubs and activities” help round out the schedule. That said, there are some who wish that “outside businesses” could be “brought in” to give students something “to do off campus.” But why go off campus when all you need is snow? “Traying, or stealing dining hail trays and riding them down the dangerously steep hill between upper and lower campus, is a perennial favorite. I’ve seen [people do it in thej nude, in subzero weather too,” a student says. Another adds that though “Alfred is a small town ... if you’re not a boring person you won’t be bored on campus.” Students with cars remind us that “within [a] 30 to 60 minute [drive] . . . are most of the major entertainments you could want—movies, a mall or two, bowling, places to volunteer if you’re so inclined, restaurants, and places to cut loose and dance.”

Student Body

At Alfred University, students tell us, “The typical student is atypical. A lot of students are artsy and into alternative things. But there are a lot [of] sporty types too.” Art does get a lot of mentions around campus. As one student explains, “AU is artistic, or at least appreciative of the arts.” “Minorities and LGBT kids are well- represented on campus and in campus leadership positions,” and “There’s even peaceful coexisting with (neighboring) Alfred State. We rib them, and they prob ably rib us, but we have Alfred State kids in some of our extracurricular groups, and until I was told they weren’t Alfred University kids, I would never have known the difference.” All in all, “Diversity works so well on this campus” thanks to a population of “friendly” and “hardworking” students.

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include; Character/persona] qualities, class rank, extracurricular activities, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record. Important factors considered include: Application essay, standardized test scores, volunteer work, work experience. Other factors considered include: Interview, racial/ethnic status, talent/ability. SAT or ACT required; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required. and GED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 2 math, 2 science (2 science labs), 2 social studies. Academic units recommended: 4 math, 3 science (3 science labs), 3 social studies.

The Inside Word

Alfred is renowned for its high quality of academics and its focus on the arts— yet the university’s general lack of name recognition and relatively isolated campus has always affected both the applicant pool and number of admitted students who enroll, meaning that selectivity was relatively low for a school of its calibet Now, thanks to Marlin Miller’s $35 million donation given to support the school’s visual and performing arts programs—one of the largest endowments ever given for arts education—expect Alfred’s stature in the national academic community to grow exponentially.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, institution’s own financial aid form, state aid form, Noncustodial PROFILE, Business/Farm Supplement. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, college/university loans from institutional funds, private alternative loans. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about February 15. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are poor.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“The admissions process at Alfred University is the foundation for the personal attention that a student can expect from this institution. Bath applicant is evaluated individualiy and can expect genuine, personal attention at Alfred University.

“Alfred University requires that freshman applicants for Fall 2008 submit scores from either the new SAT or the ACT (with Writing component).”

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ALBION COLLEGE

ALBION COLLEGE

611 EAST PORTER, ALBION, MI 49224 • ADMISSIONS: 517-629-43321 • Fn: 517-629-0569
FINANCIAL AID: 517-629-0440 • E-MAIL: ADMISSIONS@ALBION.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.ALBION.EDU

STUDENTS SPEAK OUT

Academics

A strong sense of community is among Albion College’s strongest selling points, according to the students we surveyed. Many here mention “an immediate feeling of comfort when you come to this campus” that is reinforced over time by a school that “is truly dedicated to its students and their futures. The academics are excellent, the faculty top-notch, and the opportunities are amazing.” Undergrads love the strong pre-professional programs, which include “awesome pre-med and pre-dental institutes with very high acceptance rates at medical/dental schools” and a “strong business program.” There’s less unanimity over the school’s liberal arts core curriculum; its champions laud the “multidimensional academic experience in a variety of departments” the core provides, while naysayers tell us that “it doesn’t work, because most students just don’t care about learning anything other than their major.” Professors earn high marks; students describe them as “very brffliant and having much to offer in regards to academia. They teach all of their courses as well as engage in research.” They are also active in the campus community “attending sporting, service, visual arts, Greek and other events hosted by different clubs and organizations on campus. They are an active faculty and involved with the campus.” So, too, is the school’s president, who “is rare in [the] sense that he is visible to students on a regular basis, dances with the dance team at half-time, sits in dunk tanks for philanthropic events, hosts dinner and dessert parties at his home, is always smiling, and knows the majority, if not all, of the students’ names.”

Life

Albion, Michigan, is a “small town that has nothing to offer a college student. The movie theater is really the only reason anyone from the school would walk’ downtown. There’s not even a Wal-Mart heret” How big a problem this poses depends on the student. Some here tell us that “There are so many things to get involved in that the town we are in isn’t that big of a deal.” They cite athletic teams—the small student population means a relatively large proportion of students participate in intercollegiate sports—”meetings for various organizations, which are easy to start,” “working with the community,” and, of course, Greek life, which is “huge” here. Others feel that the campus doesn’t make up for the dearth of opportunities in town; they tell us that “there’s not a whole lot to do on campus that doesn’t involve fraternity life in some way, so parties are obviously popular. Unfortunately, the school really doesn’t have much else to offer.” One student adds, “Life is just like high school. There are your same basic drama, Greek, athletic, and ‘alternative’ groups. People usually have small parties or gettogethers, go to frat parties, or see movies at the movie theater. Otherwise, there’s not much.” As a result, “Leaving campus is popular on weekends. We are in close proximity to a lot of larger schools.” Students generally “escape 20 minutes to a bigger town,” such as Lansing, Ann Arbor, or Kalamazoo, “and a very high percentage goes home every weekend and/or every other weekend.”

Student Body

Typical Albion undergrads “strive to do well in classes, study hard, are involved in extracurricular activities, and stifi finds time to relax and enjoy themselves.” Students here usually “take on many extracurricular responsibilities: clubs, campus groups, community-service organizations, athletic teams, intramural sports, and Creek life, to name a few of the possibifities. Everyone is here for academics first, however.” One student observes, “We have high goals for ourselves and others. We are hardworking and motivated.” Students are also “outgoing and friendly, for the most part.” The majority here “are White, suburban, upper- middle-class, and mostly conservative. Most are incredibly sheltered too. It sometimes seems that a good number of students here have never stepped foot outside of suburbia.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, character/personal qualities, interview, level of applicant’s interest, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record. Important factors considered include: Application essay, extracurricular activities, standardized test scores, talent/ability, volunteer work. Other factors considered include: Alunmi/ae relation, class rank, geographical residence, racial/ethnic status, work experience. ACT with Writing component recommended. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 math, 3 science (1 science lab), 3 social studies, 1 history Academic units recommended: 4 English, 3 foreign language, 3 history 3 math, 3 science, 3 social studies.

The Inside Word

Albion prides itself on fostering community, and this idea extends to the Admissions Office—the school looks for students who want to engage in and enhance the Albion experience. To that end, Admissions Officers carefully assess personal character; extracurricular and volunteer work; essays; and a candidate’s willingness to challenge him or herself intellectually. Interviews and visits to the campus are highly encouraged.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FEEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, state loans. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about March 15.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“Albion offers a purposeful blend of a classical foundation in the liberal arts with a strong emphasis on professional development through highly selective institutes in environmental science, public policy and service, professional management, premedical and health care studies, honors and education, world-class internships, and study abroad opportunities. Yahoo! Internet Life ranks Albion the ‘Seventh Most Wired College in America’ for integrating technology into academic, professional, and cocurricular programs; and a recent study conducted by the Council on Undergraduate Research ranked Albion among the top four colleges in the nation for the percentage of students engaged in original, funded undergraduate research. Albion is among the top 85 private, liberal arts colleges for the number of alumni who are corporate executives, including top executives and CEOs of Newsweek, the Lahey Clinic (MA), the Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania), PricewaterhouseCoopers, Dow Corning, Avon, the NCAA, and the Federal Accounting Standards Board (FASB). Albion’s places over 95 percent of graduates into law, dental, and medical schools including Harvard, Michigan, Columbia, Northwestern, Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, and Wisconsin. A full-service equestrian center opens August 2004 for all students, including the IHSA equestrian team. Campus organizations include Model United Nations, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Canoe Club, Black Student Alliance, Equestrian Club, Ecological Awareness Club and Greek life. Of particular note are Albion’s athletics (Britons), often dominating Division III football, women’s basketball and soccer, and men’s and women’s golf and swimming. Five varsity teams have recently earned the highest grade point average in the MIAA conference, NCAA Division III, or any division nationwide.

“Submission of SAT or ACT test scores are optional. Students with weighted CPA above a 3.85 need not submit scores. Homeschooled students, learning disabled, and students with a CPA less than 3.85 should contact the Admission Office.”

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ALBERTSON COLLEGE

ALBERTSON COLLEGE

2112 CLEVELAND BOUIEVARD, CALOWELL, ID 83605 • ADMSSIONS: 208-459-5305 • FAx: 208-459-5757
FINANCIAL AID: 208-459-5308 • E-MAIL: ADMISSION@ALBERTSON.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.ALBERTSON.EDU

STUDENTS SPEAK OUT

Academics

With only about 800 undergraduates, Albertson College of Idaho provides “a close, personal, friendly learning environment” to students seeking a “balanced liberal arts education.” All students must complete the liberal arts core curriculum that “integrates disciplines to produce a better understanding of the world, how it works, and how people come together to make it work”; the graduates, as a result, are a well-rounded bunch. One undergrad explains, “A class from just about every major is required before you graduate; [thisj gives you the opportunity to enjoy Ithings] you never knew you even liked.” The core also “teaches you how to write,” a facet of the curriculum that students appreciate, if sometimes grudgingly. Top offerings at ACT include a “really great premedical program,” a “very good psychology department,” science programs that “offer many research opportunities you can’t find anywhere else,” and music program that offers instruction from professionals: “With the Langroise Trio in residence at the college, you are guaranteed get great instruction and good small ensemble experience.” The Gipson Honors Program here “allows students to choose concentrations rather than majors arid work on a final thesis-like project,” an excellent option for those who know exactly what they want from their bachelor’s degree. Students overwhelmingly praise the school’s small size and the individual attention they receive. In all areas, “The professors are absolutely amazing. They genuinely care about your progress and are willing to go out of their way to assist you in any way possible.”

Life

ACT “is the type of school academics dream of and the type of community that party-goers and the quiet type can both enjoy.” Schoolwork keeps students busy here—but not so busy that they can’t take advantage of the “huge amount of opportunities for involvement in athletics, clubs, and other extracurricular activities.” Undergrads “consistently obligate themselves to volunteer activities, student government, extracurriculars, sports, and so on. They really keep the atmosphere at Albertson dynamic and constantly on the move, so there’s never a dull moment.” Students especially love to take advantage of the school’s location. While some note that hometown Caidwell “is not the best,” Boise is “only about 20 minutes away, and it has good shopping and cultural events, so that’s where a lot of students spend their time.” Students who like the outdoors find great resources for “tour kayaking, backpacking, hiking, camping, rock climbing, canyoneering, road tripping, caving, scuba diving. . . and even skydiving.” On weekends, “The party scene is very active, but there are always things to do if you don’t want to drink. Most fraternities are very accepting of nondrinkers. Parties are a big part of campus life, but all activities have some place on the campus.”

Student Body

“The stereotype is that ACT is mostly a bunch of White, affluent Republicans from around the state,” but that reputation is changing: “As the population diversifies, political views are becoming less homogeneous.” Political differences, students point out, tend to be less important than common interests:
“How you orient yourself politically isn’t really of any consequence on campus. For example, the debate team is extremely cohesive despite a wide array of varying political views. We all seem to get along.” Above all, the students here immerse themselves in the things they do. This is particularly the case with school spirit. One remarks, “The student fans are becoming known as ‘Coyote Crazies’ because they are so loud at sporting events.” Energetic ACI students “work hard at studies and at extracurricular activities. Due in part to the limited student population on campus, [students arej likely to be involved in many clubs and organizations outside of class.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic GPA, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores. Important factors considered include: Application essay, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, interview, level of applicant’s interest, talent/ability, volunteer work, work experience. Other factors considered include: Alumni/ac relation, class rank, first generation, geographical residence, racial/ethnic status. SAT or ACT required; ACT with Writing component required. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and GED is accepted. Academic units required: 4 English, 3 history, 3 math, 2 science, 3 academic electives. Academic units recommended: 3 science, 2 foreign language, 2 social studies.

The Inside Word

Despite its high acceptance rate, Albertson offers a quality academic program. Students who have thrived in the classroom and actively participated in extracurricular will be the handed the keys to a unique college experience, one which stresses self-confidence and social responsibility.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, institution’s own financial aid form. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: Direct Subsidized Stafford, Direct Unsubsidized Stafford, Direct PLUS, Federal Perkins Loan, alternative loans. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about March 1. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are fair.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

“While the mission of Albertson College is traditional in that it remains committed to the teaching of the liberal arts, many of the approaches to accomplishing this goal are unique. Within the campus community is the creativity to create classroom opportunities for students that span the globe—both technologically and geographically. Here, students are just as apt to attend a biology class on campus as they are to hike in the nearby Owyhee or Sawtooth Mountains to carry out field research. During the college’s 6-week winter term, more than 30 percent of the students are emailing friends and family from such locales as Australia, Israel, France, Ireland, England, Peru, or Mexico while taking part in faculty-led, multidisciplinary trips. Students are invited to visit the campus and the Admissions Counselors, either in person or through the website at www.albertson.edu.

“ACI requires all admission candidates (who have not reached sophomore status in college) to submit either the new SAT or the ACT with the Writing component as of October 2005. ACI will consider all scores, including the old SAT without Writing. There is no SAT Subject Test requirement, but scores will be considered as part of a holistic evaluation.”

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AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE

141 EAST COLLEGE AVENUE, DECATUR, GA 30030-3797 • ADMISSIONS: 404-471-6285 • FAX: 404-471-6414
FINANCIAL AID: 404-471-6395 • E-MAIL: ADMISSJON@AGNESSCOTT.EDU • WEBSITE: WWW.AGNESSCOTT.EDU

STUDENTS SPEAK OUT

Academics

“Agnes Scott College is about empowering the next generation of strong women in the world,” students at this small women’s college tell us, and statistics prove that this is more than empty rhetoric. ASC ranks high among undergraduate institutions in the percentage of its alumnae who continue on to advanced degree programs, and women here enjoy a highly personalized educational experience. As one student explains, “It makes me feel good that my professors know my name! Overall, I feel like this school cares about me. There is nothing impersonal about Agnes Scott.” That intimacy, coupled with ASC’s close proximity to Atlanta where there are “so many internships and jobs,” provides ASC with a killer one-two punch. Writing and independent thinking are the focus of the curriculum here; classes “are engaging and encourage students to think critically about the subject, not just memorize a bunch of facts and dates.” While the “small size of the school ... makes it difficult to offer some courses,” ASC “makes up for it with opportunities for reading courses, independent studies,” and “wonderful personal interaction with one’s professors.” Students warn, “There are no cake classes at Agnes,” but also say that “one-on- one relationships with the professors” help undergrads master the ASC’s “rigorous” academics. To sum it all up, “Agnes Scott is a very challenging school, but it provides you with more than enough resources to come out on top.”

Life

Life at ASC “can be a bubble if you make it a bubble. There are people who never go out, and they suffer socially. There are also people who go out, party too much, and suffer academically. Most people are successful in finding a healthy balance.” Fortunately, ASC women have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to finding entertainment. There are “tons of hall activities at the dorms, where the girls all get to know one another really well!” In addition, “There are numerous campus-wide activities like Diversifest—where diversity is celebrated with Chinese calligraphy banners, the showing of Ringu, and a Day of the Dead workshop”—not to mention a popular “pre-exam pancake 98 jam.” ASC is located in Decatur, an upscale area just outside of the Atlanta city 0 limits that boasts “fabulous restaurants” and great “shopping at Little Five Points,” an alternative hotspot nearby. Students head into Atlanta, “an amazing city. . . ridiculously accessible by MARTA or car,” to enjoy “various museums, including the High Art Museum and the Georgia Aquarium,” not to mention “tons of great restaurants, shopping, plays, concerts, and nightlife.” As for the dating scene, “Georgia Tech isn’t far away, so if people are looking for parties that include boys, that’s usually the first stop.” There’s also “a lesbian dance club across the street that a lot of students go to on the weekend.”

Student Body

“There is no typical student per se” at Agnes Scott, as “Everyone kind of goes to the beat of her own drum.” The student body runs the gamut “from the radical, left-wing lesbian to the far-right, pearls-wearing, charm school graduate, and any combination after that.” Many “were the ‘weird girls’ from high school
the ones who got good grades but were eccentric.” While “People are very different here,” students concede that there are identifiable “social circles” on campus. As one student explains, “We definitely have ‘groups’ on campus, including the religious right,., the girls who drink too much, and the girls who ask to rewrite their A- papers. The groups might not always get along, but when it comes down to it, Agnes Scoff students are devoted to each other and the school.” While political perspectives vary, the majority here “lean to the political left,” to the point that those who are not “very liberal and idealistic.., often have some trouble fitting in.” Students also observe that “because of an international focus and location in metro Atlanta, the student body is diverse in ethnicity.”

ADMISSIONS

Very important factors considered include: Academic CPA, application essay, character/personal qualities, class rank, recommendation(s), rigor of secondary school record, standardized test scores, talent/ability. Important factors considered include: Extracurricular activities, volunteer work, work experience. Otherfactors considered include: Alumni/ae relation, first generation, geographical residence, interview, level of applicant’s interest, racial/ethnic status, state residency. SAT or ACT required; ACT with Writing component recommended. TOEFL required of all international applicants. High school diploma is required, and CED is accepted. Academic units recommended: 4 English, 3 math, 2 science (2 science labs), 2 foreign language, 2 history, 2 social studies.

The Inside Word

Are you on the fence about applying to Agnes Scott College? Apply online, and the college will waive the application fee—it will only cost you the time it takes to fill it out. Dont treat this application lightly, though; Agnes Scoff is highly selective, and you’ll need to submit an impressive application to gain admission. Don’t worry about falling through the cracks here—every candidate is assigned her own specific Admission Counselor who works with the student throughout the application process.

FINANCIAL AID

Students should submit: FAFSA, previous year’s Federal Income Tax Return. Regular filing deadline is May 1. The Princeton Review suggests that all financial aid forms be submitted as soon as possible after January 1. Need-based scholarships/grants offered: Pell Grant, SEOG, state scholarships/grants, private scholarships, the school’s own gift aid. Loan aid offered: FFEL Subsidized Stafford, FFEL Unsubsidized Stafford, FFEL PLUS, college/university loans from institutional funds. Applicants will be notified of awards on a rolling basis beginning or about March 1. Federal Work-Study Program available. Institutional employment available. Off-campus job opportunities are excellent.

FROM THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE

‘Who will you become? If you are looking for a liberal arts college that will help you explore, strive, and surpass what you think is your potential, then consider Agnes Scott College. Our students and alumnae say it best:
“1 find the academic program to be extremely challenging at Agnes Scott; but it’s not overwhelming—it’s easy to go to your teachers and ask for help because they know who you are and take a personal interest.’—Evan Joslin, Class of 2008, Atlanta, GA.

“Agnes Scoff College didn’t teach me what to think. They taught me how to think,’ says Jessica Owen Sanfilippo, Class of 1998, who majored in biology at ASC, received a master’s degree in cancer biology from Stanford, and an MBA from Harvard.

“Students find their passions and their voices through guaranteed internships, international study experiences, and collaborative learning in places like the science center, facilities that were designed expressly to facilitate faculty-student research. Your next 4 years are about you. We invite you to come for a visit and imagine the possibilities for you.

“Students applying for admission are required to submit score results from the new SAT with the Writing section or the ACT, with the Writing section ecommended. We will allow students to submit scores from the old version of the SAT or ACT and will use the student’s best scores from either test.”

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