Identifying Untraditional Colleges, Where can I Research?

I'm a junior in high school, and I'm starting to think about my future. For some reason, the traditional college setting just isn't resonating with me. Are there schools out there that are known for being untraditional? Maybe in terms of their teaching methods or their general campus culture?

Definitely, there are colleges known for their untraditional approaches to teaching and learning. A defining characteristic of these institutions usually means that they offer flexible curriculums, individualized study programs, and emphasis on experiential learning. Here are a few you might want to check out:

1. Brown University: Known for its Open Curriculum, Brown allows students to curate their own education without the constraint of core requirements, aside from those in their chosen concentration.

2. The Evergreen State College: Evergreen utilizes a narrative evaluation system rather than traditional letter grading. The curriculum is interdisciplinary, and the emphasis is on collaborative group projects.

3. College of the Atlantic: This school has a focus on human ecology. All students earn a BA in human ecology and the coursework is extremely interdisciplinary.

4. Hampshire College: Each student, in collaboration with a committee of faculty members, devises an individual academic program. The assessment is done on a portfolio basis, rather than traditional grading.

While researching these colleges, I'd recommend checking out their official college websites to get accurate information on their core values, curriculum, ethos, and admission process. You can also visit higher education forums such as College Confidential, and platforms like CollegeVine where you can hear directly from students who are attending these institutions. Just remember, what feels 'untraditional' can differ greatly among individuals, so take the time to find a college that aligns with your learning style and personal goals. Best of luck with your research!