I'm looking into colleges and as much as I love the close-knit community feel of liberal arts colleges, I also want the resources and opportunities available at larger research universities. Any suggestions for schools that fall into this category? Thanks in advance!
Hi there! It's great that you're exploring different college options. I can definitely understand why you would want the best of both worlds – a tight-knit atmosphere combined with the resources of a large research university.
A few universities that come to mind include Brown University, Rice University, and Dartmouth College. These schools are known for their strong sense of community and focus on undergraduate education, while still offering top-notch research opportunities. Brown, for example, has a distinctive open curriculum that allows students to shape their own academic path, which creates a very collaborative and supportive environment.
Rice University, on the other hand, emphasizes its residential college system, where students live and form communities within their assigned colleges throughout their time on campus. This fosters a strong sense of belonging similar to what you might find at a liberal arts college. Dartmouth College, while technically a member of the Ivy League, has a smaller student body that leads to a more intimate college experience, and they put a great deal of emphasis on undergraduate research.
Keep in mind that each school has its unique aspects, so I recommend visiting campuses and talking to current students to get a feel for the atmosphere. Good luck with your college search!
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