Hey, I'm trying to get a handle on Bucknell University in Pennsylvania but I'm struggling to feel like I really know the place. Can anyone shed some light on what it's like - the academics, faculty, student life? Thanks!
Bucknell University is a private liberal arts school located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. The student to faculty ratio is pretty low, around 9:1, which means students can establish solid relationships with their professors and have opportunities for direct, personalized attention in their studies. This often translates into higher engagement and better student success. Faculty members are known for being approachable and dedicated to teaching, rather than just research. However, do note that standards are high academically speaking, so it's best to come prepared to work hard.
For academic enrichment, there are opportunities for students to participate in research with faculty members. This is quite favorable, especially for students who plan to go on to graduate school.
Student life at Bucknell includes a lot of opportunities for participation in clubs, organizations, and Division I athletics. Greek life is also quite a significant aspect of student life, with about 50% of students joining a fraternity or sorority.
In terms of the campus environment, Bucknell is located in a somewhat rural area. While some students enjoy the peaceful, natural setting and the close-knit community feel it fosters, others might find it somewhat limiting if they're looking for a more urban experience. It's best to visit the campus and explore the surroundings if possible, to get a real sense of whether it's the right fit for you.
Diversity of the student body can be a concern for some students, as Bucknell has been historically regarded as less diverse than some universities. However, they've been putting forth efforts to improve in this area.
In conclusion, Bucknell offers a strong academic program with a personal touch due to its small size and low student to faculty ratio. It is also a close-knit community with diverse extracurricular offerings. As always, visiting the campus might be the best way to confirm whether it's a good fit for you!
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