Student Life at Mount Holyoke: What's it Really Like?

I'm drawn to Mount Holyoke for its strong academics and traditions. Can anyone share what day-to-day life is like there? I'd love to hear about the community and any clubs or activities that stand out.

Mount Holyoke has a tightly-knit and diverse community. The campus is known for being lively, inclusive, and vibrant, with a wide array of activities and events. You can expect frequent events like guest lecture series, concerts, food festivals, and cultural showcases hosted by different student organizations.

This college houses more than 130 student clubs and organizations. While you'll find standard clubs like student government, newspapers, and language clubs, Mount Holyoke also hosts unique groups such as the Stickwork Sculpture Club and the MoHo BeeKeepers - a testament to the college's diversity of interests. There's also a vibrant arts scene with music ensembles, theater performances, and dance troupes.

In terms of traditions, there are many hallmark events throughout the year. Mountain Day is a favorite, where classes are canceled and students are encouraged to go explore the nearby mountain areas. Another is the M&Cs tradition ("milk and cookies"), where sweet treats are provided to students in residence halls after study hours for a late-night pick-me-up.

Mount Holyoke is part of the Five College Consortium, which includes Amherst College, Smith College, Hampshire College, and UMass Amherst. As a student at Mount Holyoke, you can easily take classes, attend events, or use the libraries at the other four colleges. This extends academic and social opportunities beyond the campus and allows for a wider network of resources and connections.

Housing and dining are worth mentioning too. You will live in residence halls that are comfortable and secure, with a strong sense of community. Dining on campus is quite an experience, considered among the best in the nation for college dining. The menu is diverse, with plenty of options to cater to different dietary needs.

Overall, the Mount Holyoke community is dynamic and engaging, constantly offering various activities to keep students intellectually and culturally stimulated. As with any college, your experience will greatly depend on what you choose to involve yourself in, but rest assured, Mount Holyoke has something for everyone.