What makes Sewanee College special?

Hey everyone! I'm looking into applying to Sewanee College and was wondering what they are known for. Are there any specific programs or aspects of this college that really stand out? I'd appreciate any info on this.

Hello! Sewanee College, officially known as The University of the South, has a unique blend of qualities that make it stand out from other liberal arts colleges. Here are a few key aspects that might be of interest to you:

1. Beautiful campus: Sewanee is known for its picturesque campus, which covers 13,000 acres on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. The campus is commonly referred to as the "Domain," and it offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

2. Strong academics and faculty interactions: As a small liberal arts college, Sewanee has a tight-knit learning environment, with an intimate 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio. This means that you can expect small class sizes, personalized attention, and strong relationships with professors, who are often recognized for their commitment to teaching and mentorship.

3. Emphasis on writing: Sewanee has a strong focus on developing writing skills in its students. The university is home to the Sewanee Review, a prestigious literary journal, and hosts the Sewanee Writers' Conference every year. The Writing Center also provides comprehensive support for students at all levels of writing proficiency.

4. Sewanee Pledge: Sewanee has a commitment to making study abroad, internships, and research opportunities accessible for students regardless of their financial background. The Sewanee Pledge guarantees that all admitted students will have access to one such funded opportunity during their time at the university, which helps encourage a culture of experiential learning and global engagement among students.

5. Spiritual heritage: Sewanee was founded by the Episcopal Church, and while it is no longer officially affiliated with the Church, it still maintains its spiritual character with the beautiful All Saints' Chapel at the heart of campus life. Diverse religious and spiritual perspectives are welcomed and encouraged, and the university values the growth and development of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

6. Strong sense of community: With around 1,700 undergraduate students, Sewanee has a tight-knit sense of community where students build lasting friendships and find support from faculty and staff. The university also has a tradition of upholding an honor code, which fosters a sense of trust and personal responsibility among students.

7. Unique traditions: Sewanee has its own set of quirky traditions that contribute to its distinctive campus culture, such as the annual passing down of academic gowns between graduating seniors and incoming freshmen, and the students "chiminging" (ringing) the chapel bells to announce their engagement.

These are just a few aspects that make Sewanee a special place to study and grow. Of course, there are many other features and programs that might be relevant to your interests, so I encourage you to continue researching and reach out to current students, alumni, or admissions representatives to learn more. Good luck in your application process!