Hey guys! I need your help.
I’m an international student (Latina)and have some trouble finding colleges in the U.S that fit me and have a strong financial aid promise at the same time.
I would like an urban or suburban campus, a close-knit community, small classes, accessible teachers and social engagement emphasis.
As for academics, I would like a school strong in environmental studies and sustainabililty, with not too many required courses, because I want to have the chance to explore other fields as well. (My interests are very diverse)
Can you recommend me some colleges? Or tell me about your experience in some of the colleges on my list so far? ( Smith College, Bryn Mawr College, Colgate University)
How are your grades, and how do these compare to other students at your high school?
Do you know how large a school you are looking for? Reading “a close-knit community, small classes, accessible teachers” makes me think about what in the US we refer to as a “liberal arts college”. At least in Canada something similar is referred to as a “small primarily undergraduate university”.
Do you know what you can afford to pay? There are only a small handful of schools in the US (including a few LACs) that meet full financial need for international students. They are all very competitive for admission.
Wellesley College comes to mind as a possibility. Bowdoin would meet most of your criteria but is in a small town. You would need strong stats for either.
Also, you said you were interested in urban or suburban campuses. Colgate is in a very rural area - a small town with 4,500 residents - surrounded by beautiful farmland. Smith College is located in an area that is a bit larger and has several colleges nearby but I don’t think I would call it suburban as it is 2 hours from Boston.