What makes Dartmouth stand out to those who choose to attend? I'm curious about its unique aspects, especially compared to other Ivy League schools. Are any current students or alumni willing to share their perspectives?
Dartmouth College indeed possesses some distinctive qualities that distinguish it from its Ivy League compatriots.
Most notably, Dartmouth's small student body fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere, not always found at larger institutions. There's a camaraderie among students, staff, and faculty which facilitates a personal, supportive learning environment. Many Dartmouth students report forming close relationships with their professors.
Second, situated in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth's rural setting provides a quintessential New England college experience. The location lends itself to a host of outdoor activities--from hiking and camping to skiing and ice-skating--which have become a huge part of the culture there. The Dartmouth Outing Club is one of the most prominent student organizations on campus, hosting trips and teaching outdoor skills to interested students.
Third, Dartmouth's D-Plan (or Dartmouth Plan) is unique in the Ivy League. The D-Plan is a year-round academic calendar that allows students to customize their college experience by choosing which terms (fall, winter, spring, or summer) they spend on campus and which they spend doing internships, studying abroad, or engaging in other experiential learning opportunities. This adds a level of flexibility to a student's academic journey that's not easily replicated at other schools.
Lastly, Dartmouth's emphasis on undergraduate instruction is quite distinguished. Unlike many of its peers, Dartmouth is primarily an undergraduate institution, and the college focuses much of its resources on providing an exceptional undergraduate education. While research opportunities are certainly available, Dartmouth's mission is teaching-focused. This means students generally have easier access to faculty and resources, and they're often not competing with graduate students for these opportunities.
Of course, these are broad trends, and the significance of these factors can vary greatly from person to person. It would be best to speak directly with students or alumni or visit campus (if possible) to understand what makes Dartmouth feel unique to you.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.