Considering Ohio's Liberal Arts Colleges?

I'm a high school junior looking at liberal arts colleges in Ohio. What are some of the best ones that offer a strong sense of community, and how do they compare in terms of academics and extracurriculars?

There are quite a few liberal arts colleges in Ohio that have a strong sense of community and offer great academic and extracurricular opportunities. Here are three in no particular order:

1. Oberlin College: Oberlin is known for its rigorous academics, with strong programs across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, but it's famous for its music conservatory. Oberlin also offers a variety of extracurricular options, from performance arts groups to community service organizations, and it has a vibrant arts scene. The school fosters a tight-knit community, made easier by its small size and residential campus.

2. Kenyon College: Located in Gambier, Kenyon is renowned for its strong focus on undergraduate teaching and its supportive community. Their English and writing programs are particularly famous due to notable alumni like Laura Hillenbrand and John Green. Like Oberlin, Kenyon offers a wide range of extracurriculars such as debate, drama, and a vibrant Greek life. The college is on a picturesque campus that naturally fosters a sense of community.

3. Denison University: Denison provides rigorous academics and fosters a welcoming community. It's known for programs in the social sciences, including Sociology, Communications, and Economics. A healthy array of extracurriculars such as clubs, intramural sports, and Greek life complement your academic experience. It is situated in Granville, a quintessential college town, enhancing the sense of community.

It's tough to compare these schools as each has its unique strengths and they all offer an individualized undergraduate experience. You can look at a few factors that matter most to you, maybe the size of the school, campus climate, specific academic programs, or extracurricular offerings, to determine which of these schools might be a better fit. Remember, visiting the campus (if possible), or attending virtual information sessions, can give a more nuanced picture and a feel for the campus culture, helping in your decision-making process.