What Do People Think About Hobart and William Smith Colleges?

I'm looking at liberal arts colleges and came across Hobart and William Smith Colleges. How's the academic rigor and overall campus environment? Insights on student life and extracurriculars would be really helpful!

Hobart and William Smith Colleges, also known as HWS, are indeed liberal arts colleges and they are well-regarded in this field. Academically, the colleges offer a rigorous and extensive curriculum that fosters critical thinking, analytical abilities, and communication skills. The small class sizes, facilitated by the low student-to-faculty ratio, facilitate personalized attention and mentored learning. In terms of the fields of study, HWS offers a wide range of programs from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences.

The campus environment is noticeably vibrant and welcoming. Situated near the Finger Lakes in Geneva, New York, the colleges have a beautiful campus that provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can expect a serene yet lively campus life, ideal for both study and recreation.

Hobart and William Smith Colleges are known for their strong community and active student life. In terms of extracurriculars, there are more than 100 student clubs and organizations, which include academic societies, cultural groups, and service-oriented clubs. This provides ample opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the community.

HWS also has a strong athletic culture, with many students participating in various Division III sports, as well as recreational and intramural sports. The college's location near Seneca Lake allows for unique opportunities in rowing, sailing, and other watersports.

The colleges are also passionate about study abroad programs. A sizable proportion of students opt for study abroad experiences, facilitated by the colleges' dedicated office for global education. This experience deeply enriches their academic and personal growth.

Remember, while these aspects of Hobart and William Smith Colleges may be appealing, it's important for you to visit the campus virtually or in person (if possible) and interact with current students and faculty to truly understand if it is the right fit for you.