What’s the vibe like at Antioch College in Yellow Springs?

I've been looking into smaller schools and came across Antioch College in Yellow Springs. Can anyone share what student life is like there? Is it super alternative and artsy, or is that just a stereotype?

Antioch College, indeed in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is a small liberal arts college known for its non-traditional, experimental, and socially progressive approach to education.

The school does harbor an "alternative" vibe. Many students, faculty, and alumni pride themselves on being naturally inquisitive, creative, socially conscious, and committed to experiential learning. That's not a stereotype, but rather a reflection of the college's core approach to education.

Courses at Antioch generally focus on developing a deep understanding of the subject matter and fostering critical thinking skills. As a result, classroom discussions are often dynamic and engaging.

Outside of academic life, the college has an active student body involved in various extracurricular activities. From environmental and social justice clubs to artistic endeavors, there's a wide variety of groups to join, and students are encouraged to start their clubs based on their interests.

The surrounding town of Yellow Springs is, indeed, rather artsy—it boasts quirky shops, art galleries, and organic food markets. The community ethos is generally supportive of diversity, creativity, and social responsibility, and this is reflected in the student body and the college culture as a whole.

However, it's also true that the vibe might not suit everyone. A smaller college in a small town can feel like a tight-knit community, and it's less likely to provide the big city experiences, larger social circles, or the myriad choices of activities to participate in that you might find at larger institutions or in urban settings.

As with any college, it's beneficial to do as much research as you can—you might consider doing a virtual campus tour or speaking with current students to get a taste of the environment to see if it's a good fit for you.