Hi, I'm a junior looking into colleges and I want to attend a school that has a liberal leaning student body and faculty. Can anyone provide a list or some recommendations for the most liberal colleges and universities in the US?
While defining a college as "liberal" can mean a wide range of things, typically when people refer to a college or university as liberal, they mean the school's student body leans to the political left or is progressive on social issues. Here are some institutions that often come up in discussions about liberal or progressive colleges:
1. Oberlin College: Located in Ohio, Oberlin has a history of championing progressive causes, becoming the first college in America to adopt a policy to admit African American students and to grant bachelor's degrees to women in a coeducational program.
2. Wellesley College: A women's college in Massachusetts, Wellesley has long been known for its commitment to promoting women's rights and equality.
3. Brown University: Brown, as an Ivy League school, can offer a blend of academic rigour and progressive atmosphere, considering they have implemented a unique 'open curriculum.'
4. Reed College: Known for its unconventional grading system and focus on individual development, Reed College in Portland, Oregon, attracts a lot of students with progressive leanings.
5. University of California, Berkeley: Commonly known as Cal, UC Berkeley has been a center of social activism and liberal politics since the 1960s.
6. Eugene Lang College: As a part of The New School in New York City, Eugene Lang College is considered very liberal, with a strong focus on social justice issues.
7. Hampshire College: As a member of the Five College Consortium (which also includes Mount Holyoke, Smith, and others), Hampshire in Massachusetts encourages students to develop their curriculum centered around a question or concept they wish to explore, fostering an environment of personal growth.
Remember, this list is by no means exhaustive and "liberal" and "conservative" are broad labels that might mean different things to different people. Also, keep in mind that you'll find a range of viewpoints at any college or university. It could be beneficial to visit or speak with students at these colleges if you have the opportunity, to see if they're the right fit for you.
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