What's Berry College like?

Howdy, I'm researching colleges and Berry College caught my interest. Could someone fill me in on what living on campus might be like? Should I consider it in my top choices?

Berry College, located in Mount Berry, Georgia, is situated on a vast 27,000-acre campus, much of which is actually a wildlife reserve. It's often recognized as one of the most beautiful campuses in the U.S. For outdoor enthusiasts, it's heaven on earth - with numerous trails for hiking or running, a reservoir, and abundant wildlife.

The college prides itself on its sense of community. With around 2,200 undergraduate students, it's a place where you'll be on first-name terms with many of your fellow students and professors. This close-knit community extends beyond just the students; professors are known to be accessible and keen on helping their students succeed.

Now when it comes to academics, Berry College has a strong liberal arts curriculum with over 40 fields of study including popular programs in Business, Animal Sciences, and Communication. It's a school that values experiential learning with all students required to complete at least two professional development experiences, such as internships or research projects by the time they graduate.

As for residential life, as a first-year student, you'd typically be placed in one of their Freshman residence halls. The rooms are generally larger than in typical Freshman dorms and the buildings offer common spaces for studying and socializing. After that, a variety of housing options are available for upperclassmen.

Student involvement is high, with over 50 student organizations including performing arts groups, religious organizations, and service clubs. The college also has a vibrant athletic scene with over 20 NCAA Division III men's and women's sports teams. Even if you're not into sports, you'll find that school spirit is high among "the Vikings".

However, do remember that Berry College might not suit everyone. It's located in a rural setting and the nearest town, Rome, Ga., while charming, is small. Hence, some people might find campus life to be somewhat insulated.

But if you're someone who appreciates a stunning natural environment, intimate class sizes, and a strong sense of community, Berry College is definitely worth considering among your top choices. I suggest you try to visit the campus if at all possible as there truly is nothing like seeing it in person to get a sense of whether it feels like home to you. In-person or virtual tours can be scheduled here: https://www.berry.edu/ppd/lifeworks/, or you can attend one of Berry College's preview days to get a real sense of what a day in the life of a student would be like.