Why choose Amherst College's campus life?

Hi guys! I heard Amherst has a pretty unique campus life, but I'm not sure what sets it apart from other schools. Can anyone give me some insight on what to expect?

Amherst College, known for its strong sense of community, offers a connected and inclusive campus life.

One of the key aspects is its open curriculum system. Amherst is one of the few colleges in the country that has this system, which encourages a diverse and rich learning environment. With no core general education requirements aside from the major, students have the freedom to take courses in a wide range of subjects, encouraging intellectual exploration. This translates into lively class discussions with different viewpoints as students from various academic backgrounds come together.

Amherst is also part of the Five College Consortium, which consists of Amherst College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. As an Amherst student, you have the opportunity to take courses, attend events, and utilize resources at these schools, which can greatly enrich your campus experience.

Also noteworthy is the college's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Amherst is one of the most diverse liberal arts colleges in the country, striving to create a dynamic and inclusive space where individuals of all backgrounds can thrive in the community.

The college's size contributes to its unique campus life too. As a relatively small college, with an undergraduate population of around 1,800, Amherst has a low student-to-faculty ratio. This results in small, intimate classes and the opportunity for students to form close relationships with their professors. The same small size facilitates a tight-knit community where students know each other well.

Amherst campus life also includes a robust residential life, as the college is largely residential. First-year students become part of a dorm community where friendships and connections are generally made.

Finally, participation in extracurriculars is a big part of Amherst’s culture. There are over 100 student clubs and organizations covering a myriad of interests, from environmental groups to performing arts societies. Many students also participate in community service and volunteer work. The college also has a Division III athletics program, and many students either participate in sports or support teams as fans.

In sum, the combination of a diverse and inclusive community, freedom to explore academically, strong residential life, and active participation in extracurriculars contribute to a unique and engaging campus life at Amherst.