<p>1) Is it correct to say that Oberlin is strong in the natural sciences, especially for a liberal arts college? But its art department is also strong?</p>
<p>2) I am concerned about the recent racial episodes that have been ongoing on campus (and there seems to be quite a few incidents.) Has discrimination of any form ever been prevalent at Oberlin? I was rather shocked because it didn't align with what I had heard about Oberlin being an accepting, friendly community. While I realise this is the action of a small ignorant population, should I be concerned? Is the relationship with the townspeople also deteriorating? </p>
<p>3) I realise this might have been answered a few times before, but I would like to address this to any past city dwellers... Does the town of Oberlin ever feel stifling? Are there many cultural attractions in town?</p>
<p>4) I have not had the chance to visit Oberlin. How are the facilities there (I hear parts of it are quite worn down)</p>
<p>I would like to address item 3. Oberlin is a small town with over 8,000 population. It has shops, restaurants, a couple of bank branches, and offices like any other small town. It’s principal industry is the college, and it was founded along with the college. The college is historic as being the first coeducational college, and the first majority white college to regularly admit and graduate African-American students. It has the oldest conservatory in the country. You can go to the Oberlin Heritage Center site and delve into the history of Oberlin.</p>
<p>The main cultural attractions are related to the college. It has an excellent art museum, auditorium for plays and musicals, Finney chapel for large attended events, and conservatory venues for concert performances. It is unlike attending college in New York, Chicago, or Boston, where there are many cultural institutions outside of the colleges and universities.</p>
<p>The college administration and departments do an excellent job in bringing in world renowned speakers and performers to enhance the cultural and intellectual milieu. . Plus, there are the talented student and faculty musical performers who give recitals and performances. There is some type of a musical event almost every day. </p>
<p>There are also numerous organizations appealing to just about every interest. </p>
<p>What I think sets Oberlin apart is the involvement of the student body in these things. There is large attendance at these events and in the organizations. There is an ethos that students should participate and be exposed to renowned speakers and performers. This is on top of the heavy academic demands. </p>
<p>As I student, I tried to participate in a much of these things as I could. It seemed that I could never do all of the things on campus that I wanted to. I did not find it stifling. I did go to Cleveland a couple of times to attend some performances, but I thought many times why go somewhere else. Besides, there’s a college nightclub and parties on campus as well. Most students were very interesting and bright, and it was great being among them. </p>
<p>You can also bring a car to campus or go anywhere in your friend’s car. Cedar Point amusement park is not that far away and is open part of the fall and spring. Lake Erie is not that far away.</p>
<p>I think it’s fair to say Oberlin’s natural sciences programs are strong. My D is a double natural sciences major and has had no difficulty being accepted into paid summer internship (REU) programs in her areas of interest. Her friends have had similar experiences. And every year there are a number of students who receive prestigious national awards in the natural sciences. I cannot speak about the arts department accept to say that the Allen Museum is wonderful. There have been CC threads discussing different aspects of the arts at Oberlin perhaps those threads can help answer your question. </p>
<p>My D, a rising fourth year, has not felt like she is missing anything by not being in a major city. As gratefulalum points out, there are plenty of cultural opportunities at the college. And Cleveland is only 1/2 hour away by car. Major shopping malls and big box stores are also close and it’s easy to get a ride with another student. </p>
<p>Regarding facilities, I assume your are referring to the athletic facilities, which are pretty pathetic at the moment. I say at the moment because the college has recently broken ground on new athletic facilities. Phase 1 (football stadium) is due to be completed this fall. Phase 2 involves a new pool and training facilities (no more exercise bikes in the hallway). </p>
<p>@steeplechase Do you know much about the 3+2 engineering program at Oberlin with the likes of Columbia, CalTech… Is it a popular option? Does the 3 years of liberal arts provide a solid foundation (in the sciences) for engineering? </p>
<p>I’m afraid I can’t help you about the engineering program, you already know more about it than me!</p>
<p>As for question 2, I would strongly encourage you to visit if you are seriously considering Oberlin. It is the best way to get a feel for the college, its atmosphere and its community relations. Go while classes are in session. See if you can spend the night with a student and attend some events. You’ll know then whether it is the right place for you. </p>
<p>1) All departments at Oberlin are strong. However there are less science courses offered than at a larger school, and the ones we do have are offered less often, so make sure you would be interested in the courses that Oberlin (or just any small college) offers. I know a few students who did the 3-2 and they seemed to be happy with it. However I know they did struggle to leave after the 3, since all their friends were still going to be in Oberlin. And they missed out on some courses they wanted to take that were only offered every other year or filled up too quickly while they were underclassmen. I think it provided a very solid foundation though.</p>
<p>2) I’m a white cis-female, so I am not going to, and should not, comment on the racist/sexist/homophobic/transphobic discrimination on campus. I will say however that every student I have met has been very supportive of all minority groups and I personally have not felt unsafe on campus. </p>
<p>3) There are very few attractions not related to the college. However the college will keep you plenty busy with the free art museum, conservatory and music performances, plays, operas, dancing, improv, open mics, and athletic events on campus. You could also go to Cleveland every once in a while for bigger events.</p>
<p>4) Honestly, the facilities are okay. There’s nothing particularly wrong with any of them, and some are really nice (science center, environmental science building, Kahn). A lot of the buildings are old with old carpet and furniture, and it probably won’t be the most impressive campus you’ve ever seen. But Wilder Bowl (outdoor area) and Tappan Square are beautiful and always full of people. Downtown is so close to campus so it’s always nice to go down to Slow Train and get coffee or Tooo Chinoise and get some fried dumplings at 2am.</p>
<p>Final thoughts: I would definitely visit before you send in a deposit. I understand if you can’t make it before you apply, but it’s a really unique place and I think an overnight visit would really help you get the feel for Oberlin (or any college)! Good luck with your senior year/applying to colleges!</p>
<h1>4. I personally think the Oberlin campus is one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen–I much prefer it to the campuses of Vassar, Wesleyan, Williams, etc. Some of the dorms need updating or replacing, but there are also many distinguished buildings. But you’ll have to use your own judgment. Here are some virtual tours that will allow you to take a look: <a href=“Redirecting to 360 Tour | Oberlin College and Conservatory”>Redirecting to 360 Tour | Oberlin College and Conservatory; .</h1>