| Featured College - Bryn Mawr College By: Gesina Phillips Bryn Mawr is an all-female college as well as a historic institution with a global reputation for excellence. Located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania (11 miles from Philadelphia) the college’s scenic 135-acre campus is packed with trees and Gothic-style buildings. The small-community aspect of the college allows for a close relationship between students and faculty. This can only aid in the fulfillment of the institution's stated mission, which is to impart knowledge and create responsible world-citizens. Bryn Mawr began providing a first-rate education to female students in 1885, becoming the first women’s college to offer a Ph.D program. Within such an institution, women were able to partake in a rigorous program of study in addition to conducting original research. Over the years, Bryn Mawr continued to be at the vanguard of higher education, offering graduate fellowships to women and establishing a previously unheard-of student government organization. The college continued to lead the way in promoting students’ rights during the McCarthy era and Vietnam War, declining government aid in favor of protecting the rights of its students. Bryn Mawr remains a leader among colleges, promoting diversity and understanding within the student body and in the world as a whole. True to its traditions, the Bryn Mawr of today puts the education of its students first. There are thirty-six different majors to choose from, as well as thirty-eight minors. In addition to liberal arts majors, there is an emphasis placed on the science track as well. “Professors are approachable and helpful,” said sophomore, Alyssa Gagne. She added about her major advisor, that “She's one of the nicest people I've met. And I asked her if I could meet with her the day before something was due and she was so cool about it. She had to meet with seniors but she still made time for me.” In addition to an invested faculty and rigorous academic focus, the college also features joint academic programs with Haverford College and the University of Pennsylvania, as well as access to library resources and events at Swarthmore College. This connection allows students to make the most of the resources in the area, while at the same time fostering a connection between nearby college institutions. In addition to a thorough and challenging program of academics, Bryn Mawr boasts a wealth of student organizations and activities. Alyssa Gagne says, “There’s always something going on.” With over 100 student organizations on campus, plus club sports and programs, this isn’t difficult to believe. There are movies playing on campus every weekend, as well as celebrations such as May Day, which includes maypoles, theatre, and live music. The distance from Philadelphia is also an asset, as the train is within walking distance. Overall, the school stays true to its roots, merging tradition and fun with many activities and ceremonies, particularly those aimed at freshmen. Sisterhood is truly the driving force of this college. Alyssa Gagne concludes that “One of the best things about being at a really small female college is that there is that sense of bonding. It's like one giant sorority.” With a tuition weighing in around $37,000 (and that’s without room and board!) Bryn Mawr is a pricey option. However, over 56% of students receive financial aid from the college itself, while many more receive aid from the government and other sources. The moral of this story is not to forget to fill out your FAFSA and apply for scholarships! The application fee is waived for prospective students who apply online, so the only cost to apply is the sending of test scores (either the SAT plus two Subject Tests or the ACT). Regular decision applications are due before January 15. www.brynmawr.edu www.fafsa.ed.gov |
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