<p>Hi everyone! I'm really interested in Hillsdale, but I do have one question. How much emphasis does Hillsdale place on faith vs. conservative ideals? It seems Hillsdale isn't a Christian college, but founded on Christian values. Just wondering how that plays in the classroom.</p>
<p>Conservatism: most students come from conservative backgrounds, but there are many independents, some libertarians, and a few liberals. Most students are also reasonably politically aware (if not actively campaigning/protesting/etc) so there is plenty of intelligent political discussion inside and outside the classroom. I have found that the college is less conservative than it advertises itself to be; I half expected giant Republican rallies every day, but most students are far more low-key and are very open to discussion with all viewpoints.</p>
<p>Christianity: again, most students come from a Christian background. On my dorm hall, for example, I would say there are around 10 Protestants of varying denominations, 4 Catholics, and 5 “other” (agnostic, Jewish, and Mormon are represented). There is are active faith-based student groups on campus, such as the Catholic Society, Hillsdale Christian Fellowship, Lutheran Society, etc. as well as many student-run Bible studies. In the classroom, professors are not shy to discuss the Christian church and doctrine in the context of history and literature. But it is still a non-sectarian school-- there is no statement of faith, students aren’t pressured to attend a chapel, the biology professors teach evolution, etc.</p>
<p>Classical liberal arts: You didn’t mention this, but I think it’s one of the most (perhaps THE most) important influences on a Hillsdale education. Even if you’re a physics major, you will read Plato’s Republic and Aristotle’s Politics your first semester. A politics major must study the principles of biology and chemistry. English, psychology, and biochemistry majors alike must read works like the Iliad and the Inferno. In short, Hillsdale students have a great respect for the great tradition of scholarship that stretches beyond them, in all disciplines.</p>
<p>Hillsdale also has a beautiful and effective honor code. If you are unfamiliar with it, check it out on the Hillsdale website! It really binds the student body together in a pledge to seek the higher things.</p>
Hillsdale College does not “teach” conservatism. Nor is the college actively involved in faith promotion, of any sect or denomination.
You will be expected to defend any position you hold politically, religiously, or otherwise.