<p>What is life like at Bennington College? I am from a very small town (though we are within a half an hour from a major city) and was also wondering what the surroundings are like near Bennington. I am a very independent person and plan to major in International Relations and would like to know how this fits into the Bennington scheme of things. Also, how generous is Bennington with financial aid?</p>
<p>If anyone out there has attended the school please tell me what your experience was like.</p>
<p>I’m not a student, only a parent, but maybe I can help.</p>
<p>Bennington is actually in North Bennington, which is a very small, one street town, almost rural. Bennington is a bit larger with coffee shops, restaurants, etc. and a short drive away. Williamstown is a little further and has more restaurants. Albany is not too far a drive, and the closest place with malls, etc. And of course it’s only about 4 hours from NYC and even closer to Boston.</p>
<p>Bennington doesn’t have majors, but you may be able to concentrate in International Relations. I don’t know much about that, but my d knows someone who worked on Obama’s election committee, if that helps. My d received a very generous grant, so, yes, they are generous if they want you.</p>
<p>Thanks for the info! Do you know what the social set there is like? Is Bennington full of more artsy “free-thinkers” or more academic oriented people?</p>
<p>Can I say both, or all of the above? There are lots of different kinds of kids there. What you won’t find are people who just want to sit in classes, have information fed to them, and take tests. You are expected to take control of your own learning, design your program, and follow through. There are people to help you of course, but you have to make it happen.</p>
<p>Lots and lots of hipsters. Lots of them. Droves.</p>
<p>Yeah, I don’t think that it’s the college for me.</p>
<p>I don’t think so either. Good luck with where you finally choose.</p>