Is a liberal arts college in Pennsylvania the right fit for me?

I'm thinking about applying to some liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania. What should I expect in terms of academics and campus life? How do students typically feel about their experience there?

Liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania, like Swarthmore, Haverford, or Dickinson, can offer a unique blend of rigorous academics and personalized attention due to smaller class sizes. Their roots in the liberal arts tradition mean they emphasize breadth of knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills. This often results in an interdisciplinary approach that can foster a deep intellectual curiosity and lead to a comprehensive understanding of various subjects.

On-campus life at a liberal arts college is typically very close-knit. Students often form tight bonds due to shared residential spaces and small class sizes. Campus activities and clubs are also abundant, with opportunities for leadership and community involvement. For example, Swarthmore is known for its dedicated community service culture and it has a vibrant arts scene.

Liberal arts colleges also emphasize close student-faculty relationships. It's not uncommon for students to have their professors' direct phone numbers or be invited to their houses for dinner.

I've heard from many students that they chose these types of colleges because they wanted an environment that was intellectually rigorous, but also personal and supportive. They wanted a place where they could have real relationships with their professors, instead of being one face in a large lecture hall.

That being said, some students might find the pace intense and the size too small, lacking the range of opportunities and resources that larger universities could provide. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the experience undoubtedly varies from school to school even within the label of 'liberal arts colleges'.

It really comes down to your personal preferences: if you value smaller, discussion-based classes, a tight-knit community, and a commitment to broad, interdisciplinary study, a liberal arts college in Pennsylvania might just be the right fit for you. Although, you should always try and visit the colleges you are considering, if possible, to get a true sense of the campus culture and environment, as well as talking to current students or alumni.