Top Liberal Arts Colleges?

I saw Forbes' list of top liberal arts colleges, but I want to hear from real students. What are your fave liberal arts schools and why? Please share your experiences or what you've heard from friends. Thanks!

I'm glad you're interested in liberal arts colleges! While I may not be a currently enrolled student, I can share information about a few top liberal arts schools based on student testimonials and commonly cited strengths.

1. Williams College - Widely recognized for its small class sizes and accessible professors, many students appreciate the sense of community and dedication to undergraduate education. Williams' tutorials, modeled after those at Oxford, are also popular because they foster engaging one-on-one discussions between a professor and two students.

2. Amherst College - Amherst is another favorite due to its open curriculum, which gives students the freedom to explore their academic interests without being tied to core requirements. The Five College Consortium (with Smith, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire, and UMass Amherst) further expands course options and resources available to students.

3. Swarthmore College - Known for its strong emphasis on academic rigor and intellectual inquiry, Swarthmore challenges its students with a diverse range of thought-provoking courses. The tight-knit community and beautiful campus also contribute to an immersive college experience.

4. Pomona College - As part of the Claremont Colleges consortium (Scripps, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, and the Claremont Graduate University), Pomona offers the support and atmosphere of a small liberal arts college while giving access to the opportunities, courses, and resources of a larger institution. The sunny California climate and outdoor activities are attractive to many students.

5. Bowdoin College - Famously known for its "work hard, play hard" culture, Bowdoin balances rigorous academics with an emphasis on extracurricular involvement and community engagement. The concept of the Bowdoin "Common Good" resonates with students who desire to make a positive impact on the world around them.

Each of these colleges offers a unique environment and approach to education. Ask yourself what specific factors or attributes make a college the right fit for you - whether it's class size, location, extracurricular opportunities, or educational philosophy, and use those as a guide when exploring your options. Good luck on your college search!