Best Small Colleges in the Northeast?

Hi all! I'm starting the college search process, and I'm really interested in attending a small college in the Northeast. Can anyone recommend some of the best small colleges in this region? I'm open to any suggestions, but I'd prefer a school with strong academics and a close-knit community.

Sure! The Northeast is home to numerous top-notch small colleges, many of which excel academically and foster a tight-knit community. Here are some notable small colleges in the Northeast that you might want to consider:

1. Amherst College (Amherst, MA) — Amherst is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics, open curriculum, and diverse student body. The close-knit community and faculty interaction are also major selling points.

2. Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA) — Swarthmore is part of the Tri-College Consortium with Bryn Mawr and Haverford, offering rigorous academics and an intimate learning environment that emphasizes social justice and responsibility.

3. Bowdoin College (Brunswick, ME) — Bowdoin has a strong liberal arts curriculum with a focus on undergraduate teaching, and its picturesque campus is just minutes away from the Maine coast.

4. Williams College (Williamstown, MA) — Renowned for excellent academics and an intimate community, Williams follows an Oxford-style tutorial system, which features small-group, one-on-one instruction.

5. Middlebury College (Middlebury, VT) — Middlebury is well-known for its intensive language programs and environmental studies. It's nestled in the Green Mountains, providing excellent outdoor recreational opportunities.

6. Vassar College (Poughkeepsie, NY) — Vassar offers an open curriculum, allowing students to explore various academic interests. The school is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community, with a strong focus on undergraduate research opportunities.

7. Colgate University (Hamilton, NY) — Colgate is a liberal arts college with an emphasis on close faculty-student interaction and a strong sense of community. The picturesque campus is situated in a small, charming town near the Adirondack Mountains.

8. Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) — Wesleyan's progressive ethos and flexible curriculum attract students with diverse interests. The school is especially strong in the arts, sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but these colleges are known for their strong academics and close-knit communities. As you explore your options, be sure to visit campuses and research each school in-depth to find the best fit for your needs and interests. Good luck!