Hey guys! I'm a junior who'll be applying to colleges soon and political climate matters to me. Where would you recommend a student with liberal political leanings apply? Thank you!
Sure, it's understandable that the campus ethos and general atmosphere would be something you consider while applying.
Out on the East Coast, colleges like Brown University and Wesleyan University are known for their liberal student bodies and overall campus political landscape. Brown particularly is famous for its open curriculum which gives a sense of independence and freedom to its students. Many students at Wesleyan are politically active and there is a substantial presence of progressive student organisations.
In the Midwest, Oberlin College in Ohio is one of the most liberal colleges in the region. It was one of the first colleges to become co-educational and to admit African American students.
On the West Coast, Evergreen State College in Washington and UC Berkeley in California are renowned for their progressive environments. UC Berkeley, in particular, has a long history of student activism dating back to the Free Speech Movement in the 1960s.
Also consider smaller liberal arts colleges like Sarah Lawrence College in New York, Bard College in New York, and Reed College in Oregon.
Finally, the Bennington College in Vermont is known for its progressive community engagement and all arts-focused curriculum, which is quite famous for attracting a liberal-minded student base.
Always remember to consider other factors like your intended major, financial aid options, geographic location, in addition to the political climate. This way, you get a holistic sense of what your college experience might look like. Good luck with your search!
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