Wondering about the best liberal arts schools in America

I'm starting to think about college and heard a lot about liberal arts schools. Any thoughts on which offer the best overall experience? I'm especially interested in programs that balance academics with strong campus culture.

It's great that you're considering liberal arts colleges, as they can provide a great balance between learning and campus life. Top liberal arts colleges typically boast small classroom sizes that promote student-faculty interaction, a diversified curriculum, and a vibrant campus culture.

Williams College has often earned the top spot in rankings. It's located in a small town and fosters a tight-knit community, so if you're bearing that in mind, Williams might be a great fit. Known for its creative "Tutorial" system, inspired by Oxford University, this format has you working closely with professors often in a 1:1 or 2:1 setting, which greatly enhances learning experiences.

Amherst College is another top choice when it comes to liberal arts. It has an open curriculum, which affords students great flexibility and the ability to explore different interests. Also, Amherst is part of the Five College Consortium, which gives students the ability to take classes at four other colleges in the area, enhancing their academic opportunities.

Swarthmore College is recognized for its Honors Program, a unique approach where students engage in group projects and defending their work in front of external examiners. Its liberal arts and engineering programs are both strong, so it's an excellent option if you want exposure to both areas.

Pomona College, part of the Claremont Consortium, is located in sunny California and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate research, internship availability, and study abroad programs. This allows you to enjoy both the smaller college community while having the resources of a larger institution.

While each of these colleges excels academically, co-curricular offerings, campus atmosphere, and geographical location are also important. Other top liberal arts colleges include Middlebury, Bowdoin, and Haverford, which also balance academics and campus culture beautifully. Just remember, the "best" college is the one where you'll thrive academically and personally. Best of luck with your college search process!