Bates College: Social climate

We were at the Admitted student day today and I am so impressed! First time visiting Bates, we are from the South, and despite the bitter cold, it was a good experience. Students looked happy, everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful. Three times I had to ask someone for directions (they hadn’t given maps to parents) and each time people would actually escort me to the right building even though it wasn’t on their way. Feels like a very kind and caring campus. Food in the Commons also delicious. Son attended a class on Chinese poetry and really enjoyed it. I would be very happy for him to attend, but don’t think it will happen. He said ‘no’ to any Bates gear, and his only real comment was that he is not sure he is able to handle the cold.

We were there today, and I can’t get over how friendly and welcoming everyone was. Blown away by how students noticed us, asked us if we needed help, and offered directions. The dining hall was hands-down the best one we’ve seen on any tour and the food was fabulous. I was afraid the kids would be too preppy and give off a rich-kid vibe, but it wasn’t like that at all (though one tour guide did mention his pet campus club, which is a mock “venture capitalist” club, or a “college Shark Tank,” where they give out cash to start businesses, which I found off-putting.) My son did an overnight and loved it.
Now he just has to choose between Bates and Hampshire. I’m surprised Hampshire doesn’t get more love here in CC – it was an amazing school as well.

Hampshire is definitely on the quirky side and it doesn’t appeal to a wide range of kids. But for the right student it’s a great school.

Glad those who visited Bates were impressed. My S had an amazing 4 years there and now as an alum is still very connected to Bates. He, along with another Bates grad (and one of his roomies) are planning on starting a mentoring program with Bates students at the tech startup in Boston where they work. The first company he worked for (a Fortune 200) had a mentoring program with Bates, too.

Many Bates grads end up in Boston as the companies there are very familiar with the college and the caliber of students who attend. S’s other roommate, also a Bates grad, works at McKinsey.

@Meaganmm , Hampshire is a really neat place. However, I think it doesn’t get the same attention as other LACs because it is really unique. It also isn’t as well known as others because it doesn’t participate with the USNWR rankings. I tried to get my son to consider Hampshire, no luck. Who doesn’t love no grades?