A Hidden Gem
Written: Jul 17 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great Academics, Personal Atmosphere
Cons: Location (Could be a Pro to Some.)
The Bottom Line: Aside from outstanding academics, Grinnell provides its students with a deluge of other benefits as well.
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| sweetlola's Full Review: Grinnell College |
Last year, as a senior in high school, I searched for the ideal college. During this search, I came upon, and almost chose, Grinnell College. Grinnell College has a unique combination of characteristics that made it stand out among the many colleges I looked at, and I feel that these characteristics would appeal to many students seeking to discover the right school for themselves.
Before I begin, let me first say that Grinnell's location is the primary reason I chose not to attend. Growing up in a small town in America's heartland, I wanted a change, and therefore chose a similar college in a larger town on the east coast. I do feel, however, that I could have attended Grinnell comfortably, though, as there are several cities within easy driving distance, and Chicago, IL, within reach as well. The only other significant reason that drove me from Grinnell was the fact that I would be having to take out loans (I'm not taking out any for the school I'm attending). On another note, but not so personally, although Grinnell is regarded as top-notch, it is still not regarded as one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges. I include this only because it may influence some opinions, although I feel that other factors should influence one's decision more.
Grinnell's positive points are almost too many to list. To begin with, Grinnell's academic atmosphere is intense. Students do not have to deal with core requirements, with the exception of a seminar taken freshman year. The student/faculty ratio is incredibly low, and professors are more than accessible. In the class I sat in on, there were only 16 students, and the professor knew each one by name. This close-knit atmosphere extends to the student body as well. The student body is diverse, but students interact well with each other. However, I must add, if you are an incredibly conservative person, you may not fit in so well. Students here appear to be very open-minded towards all opinions and lifestyles, as long as they aren't close-minded ones. Although I didn't talk to any homosexual or bisexual students there, I would feel that the campus community is open and nourishing towards these students.
Another positive aspect of Grinnell's small size is the opportunity students have to participate in extracurricular activities, which I realize is pretty obvious. However, the activities and athletics offered towards students are endless, and I was especially impressed by the drama program.
Social life at Grinnell is something else that surprised me. Although Grinnell is located in a small town, there are always lectures, plays, concerts,exhibits, parties, etc. to attend. This is one school that will not bore you at all.
Although Iowa may not prove to be the most picturesque state to reside in, Grinnell is a beautiful town and the campus of Grinnell College is gorgeous as well. The town of Grinnell (about 9800 people) has the basics for a college student- Wal-Mart, Pizza Hut, a few restaurants, a few motels, and most importantly, a very safe environment.
Grinnell College's campus is beautiful as well. Aside from buildings with awesome architecture and distinguished interiors, the school has some very unique places to study or lounge around. The library is one of these such places. Aside from housing the typical library items, there are several tree-house type structures that serve as study nooks, as well as uniquely-shaped tables perfectly designed for group study sessions.
Lastly, and quickly, let me add that Grinnell has a financial aid program that is top notch. If you believe that you can't afford to go there, think again- they'll meet 100% of your need!
I could truly go on about Grinnell College more, but to get my point across, if you are searching for colleges or just ready to transfer, consider Grinnell.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
sweetlola
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Reviews written: 20
Trusted by: 3 members
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