I'm a high school junior starting to research colleges, and New Hampshire caught my eye. It seems like a beautiful place to experience college life with all that nature and those classic New England vibes. Does anyone have recommendations for good colleges in NH? I'm interested in small to medium-sized schools where there might be a strong sense of community. I'd appreciate any thoughts on the academic and social scene too!
Certainly, New Hampshire is home to several notable colleges known for their strong community and academic offerings.
Most famously, Dartmouth College can be a great choice. It's a member of the Ivy League, nestled in the charming town of Hanover. Dartmouth emphasizes small class sizes and the liberal arts, providing students with a deeply engaging and personalized education. It indeed has a strong community vibe, thanks to its residential system inspired by the Oxford-Cambridge model. There's a solid social scene, with traditions like the Dartmouth Winter Carnival, and the outdoorsy nature of the campus allows for lots of hiking and skiing.
Another school to consider is Franklin Pierce University. Located in the rural town of Rindge, it's a small, private institution known for its strong programs in Business, Health, and Psychology. Students describe a friendly, tight-knit community with plenty of opportunities to connect and engage with each other.
In addition, you could look into the University of New Hampshire at Durham. While slightly larger, their system of residential colleges can help make the community feel smaller and more manageable. They offer a wide range of majors, and the school is well-regarded for its research opportunities. UNH also has a vigorous social scene, from athletics to countless clubs.
Lastly, Keene State College, New England College, and Southern New Hampshire University are other smaller institutions in the state worth exploring depending on your intended major and personal fit.
Each of these colleges offers unique opportunities and experiences. I would recommend visiting each campus, if possible, to get a sense of their environments, meet current students, and sit in on classes in your areas of interest. That would give you a good sense of which one might be the best fit for you. Some colleges even offer virtual tours or online information sessions. Best of luck!
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