Hello everyone. I’ve posted on CC before about my DS’s search for an LAC with an Anthropology/Archeology concentration and everyone here is so helpful. DS has researched Bates and loves the idea of the Maine surroundings (we live in NJ), the active Outing Club, and no Greek life/inclusive vibe. He has even checked out the Anthro department and really liked what he read online about the faculty and interdisciplinary options within the major. We are planning a visit at the end of October and he has an interview scheduled. This is the farthest school we are visiting (approx. 7 hours) and will support him if this is a good fit socially and academically but we want to be sure it is worth the extra distance.
He is a quiet kid, actively involved in a few clubs at school as well as golf but doesn’t really have an active social life outside of school. I mean, he doesn’t really “hang out” with friends on the weekends or attend dances, football games, etc. He prefers hiking, fishing, exploring and feels his high school friends don’t get him that way. His high school can be very cliquey and organized team sports rule there. He has attended summer camps, however, where he has had wonderful experiences with like-minded teens who also love the outdoors.
My questions are, 1. Is Bates the inclusive environment it claims to be and is it the type of place where he can find those like-minded students where he can finally fit in?
2. Does anyone have experience with the Anthro major and is it a college where he can get what he needs to study archaeology in grad school?
Thanks in advance, and we look forward to visiting there soon!
Regarding question 2, I have no knowledge of the anthropology department, but yes, he will get what he needs and be very well prepared for grad school. Bates students have a very high rate of acceptance to grad school.
As for question 1, I think he will find his people at Bates. My daughter isn’t an outdoorsy type and is uninterested in sports, but the rest sounds like her and her friends. He will certainly be in the right place to do all of those things. Bates is unquestionably inclusive. Will he find other students like him? Yes, especially in the Outing Club. He should also look into the Discordians, who are not partiers, according to their blurb. They advertise themselves as enjoying games and being chem free. It’s a popular club. I am sure he will fit in at Bates. I feel that there a lot of different types of kids there, so it’s not like you must love sports, or partying, or any one thing.
The good thing about LACs is that they are a self-selecting group. Kids who want to be in that environment already have something in common. Yes, different LACs have different vibes. My opinion is that Bates is a great college for a relaxed, accepting individual who wants a great education in a college with many different types of students. I can’t say there is a stereotypical Batesie.
@Lindagaf - thank you for the reply and for sharing your daughter’s experience. Everything I have read tells me it would be a great fit for him academically & socially so we are looking forward to visiting the campus. I will keep an eye out for more info on the Discordians!