I'm a high school junior and I'm currently researching on D2 colleges. In your experience, which D2 colleges have the most fun or active campus life? I'm looking for a good balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
It's great that you're considering the broader college experience beyond just academics! Remember, finding the 'best fit' is about finding a school that matches your academic, personal, and social needs.
If you're interested in Division II schools with strong extracurricular involvement, California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, also known as Cal Poly Pomona, is one that comes to mind. They have a very active campus life, with over 300 student organizations, an active Greek life, and numerous recreational and club sports teams. Academic side is also robust, with a diverse range of majors and programs to choose from.
Another one is the University of North Georgia which has five campuses, each with different experiences. The Dahlonega Campus, for example, is more traditional with a corps of cadets program and Division II athletics, while the Gainesville Campus which has a more commuter feel. So you can choose what suits you best. Mountainous surroundings allow for plenty of outdoor activities.
Grand Valley State University in Michigan also offers a blend of academics and campus life. In addition to their Division II athletics, they also have over 400 student-run clubs and organizations, frequent campus events, and a beautiful campus located near the city of Grand Rapids.
Lastly, Bentley University in Massachusetts is a business-focused institution with an active student community. Though they are D2, they still have strong sports teams. The campus is bustling with events, like Spring Day, which is a high-spirited event marking the end of the academic year.
Remember, each student's experience can vary significantly even at the same college. What one student finds engaging, another might not. So it's definitely worth considering a visit to these campuses (if possible), or at least doing a virtual tour or attending an online admissions event to get a better feel for each college's atmosphere. Also, reach out to current students or alumni through the college's official channels to get first-hand insights.
Good luck with your college search process!
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