How Does Bates University Compare for Academics and Campus Life?

I'm interested in Bates University but want to know more about its academic reputation and student life. How supportive is it for new students, and what are the extracurricular opportunities like?

Bates College is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and small class sizes, which promotes individualized learning and close relationships with professors. This type of environment can be very supportive for new students transitioning into college, as you're really able to engage with your professors and receive personalized attention from them.

In terms of academics, Bates has strong programs across many disciplines, with particularly recognized programs in environmental science, political science, economics, and psychology. The college also emphasizes experiential learning and the majority of students, around 70%, complete a senior thesis, which involves doing extensive research under the guidance of a faculty mentor. As a Bates student, you’d also have the freedom to curate your academic experience since the school has no required core curriculum.

When it comes to extracurricular opportunities, Bates excels there too. There are over 100 student-run clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the popular ones include debate team, Outing Club (which organizes off-campus outdoor activities), and the Robinson Players (community theater group). Not to forget, athletics are quite significant at Bates, given its participation in the NCAA Division III New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC).

Bates is also known for having a strong sense of community which is nurtured through its residential college model - almost all students live on-campus in housing provided by the college throughout their four years. Common student-organized events like 'Harvest Dinner' and 'Winter Carnival' provide students a fun and lively campus life.

Social life often revolves around campus and dorm-based activities, the great outdoors, community involvement, and the arts. The diversity of the student population, with international students making up a solid portion, also adds to the rich social fabric on campus.

In summary, Bates offers a rigorous academic experience paired with a vibrant campus life filled with plenty of extracurricular opportunities. Get to know these opportunities for yourself by signing up for a tour, scheduling an info session, or setting up a conversation with a current student or alum: https://www.bates.edu/admission/campus-visits/.