Looking for small colleges on the east coast

Hey, I'm starting my college search and I'm really interested in small colleges on the east coast. Which ones are highly recommended and have a good academic reputation? I'd appreciate any suggestions.

Hello! It's great to see that you're interested in small colleges on the east coast. These colleges tend to offer a more close-knit community and smaller class sizes compared to larger universities. Here are some highly-regarded small colleges on the east coast, ranging across a few states:

1. Swarthmore College (Pennsylvania) - Swarthmore is known for its challenging academics and commitment to social justice. It's part of the Quaker Consortium along with Bryn Mawr, Haverford, and the University of Pennsylvania.

2. Amherst College (Massachusetts) - Amherst is part of the Five College Consortium (Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, Smith, and UMass Amherst), which allows students to take classes and use resources at any of the schools in the Consortium.

3. Williams College (Massachusetts) - Williams has a strong liberal arts program with unique features like tutorials, which are one-on-one classes based on the model at the University of Oxford.

4. Bowdoin College (Maine) - Bowdoin offers extensive research opportunities for undergraduates and has a strong focus on environmental studies, given its location near the picturesque Maine coast.

5. Haverford College (Pennsylvania) - Haverford emphasizes academic rigor and the Quaker values of community and integrity. The Honor Code here plays a role in shaping the campus culture and academic experience.

6. Middlebury College (Vermont) - Middlebury is known for its strong programs in international studies, environmental studies, and languages. It also has a unique January term, called the "J-term," where students can pursue an intensive course or an independent project.

7. Colby College (Maine) - This college offers a liberal arts education and emphasizes research opportunities, study abroad experiences, and experiential learning.

8. Hamilton College (New York) - Hamilton is known for its open curriculum, which allows students to choose their own academic path without strict distribution requirements.

9. Wesleyan University (Connecticut) - Wesleyan is renowned for its interdisciplinary programs, creative arts, and social sciences. It's part of the "Little Three" group of liberal arts colleges, along with Amherst and Williams.

Keep in mind that what makes a college "highly recommended" can vary depending on individual preferences and academic interests. I encourage you to research these colleges further to see which ones match your specific needs and goals. Good luck with your college search!