What makes liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania unique?

I'm considering applying to liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania and would love to hear about what makes them stand out. Are there any specific programs or extracurriculars that they're known for?

Liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania are highly regarded for their well-rounded and intimate academic environment. Their unique attributes include small class sizes, personalized learning, and a strong focus on undergraduate education.

One specific school that comes to mind is Swarthmore College, which is part of the Tri-Co Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Haverford. All three schools are known for their academically rigorous programs and vibrant communities. The consortium allows students at these schools to cross-register for courses, expand their curriculum choices, and participate in a wider array of extracurricular activities than they could at a single school. At Swarthmore, the Honors Program, inspired by the tutorial systems at Oxford and Cambridge, is a standout feature - students work closely with faculty members on graduate-level research and participate in extensive oral and written examinations.

Haverford College is recognized for its strong sense of honor code and student self-governance. It's also known for its concentration in Peace, Justice, and Human Rights - an interdisciplinary program that allows students to study human rights theory and practice.

Bucknell is known for offering a liberal arts education alongside professional programs in engineering, management, education, and music. This blend provides students the opportunity to experience a broad-based education while also cultivating specific professional skills.

Finally, Franklin and Marshall College has a unique aspect called Houses, where each first-year student is placed into one of five residence halls (Houses) and remains a member even if they move off campus or to a different residence. Each House has a governing body and budget, organizes academic and social programs, and contributes to the wider community.

These colleges also offer a vast array of Tier 1 and Tier 2 extracurricular activities, with many students involved in research, internships, study abroad opportunities, and community work, allowing students to apply their learning outside the classroom. However, the specifics will vary from college to college and student to student. It's a good idea to check out the individual websites or contact student services at each college to get more detailed information.