Written by Andrew Patton
New London’s claim to fame—its once booming whaling industry—won’t make any students (aside from a few scrimshaw fans) rush to Conn. Nevertheless, New London does have a few draws. First, history buffs will appreciate the many historical homes, monuments, and museums nearby. Second, the city has all the staples college students need, including a grocery store, a mall, bars, restaurants, movie theaters, and a Staples. The Coast Guard Academy and Mitchell College are both nearby, but Conn students don’t really mingle with either group
For the most part, students have mixed feelings toward New London. It has all the necessities, but Conn students don’t always feel like they are part of the New London community. The College works hard to encourage the students to go into the city, however, and increasingly more students are. In recent years it has become more student friendly, as more bars and restaurants have opened, and many students venture into the city several times a week to do community service. Ocean Beach and Harkness Memorial State Park are both about a ten-minute car ride away, as well. Both of these beaches are popular hang outs for students when the weather is warm. The city of Mystic is also nearby, and it scores high marks with students for its quaint shops and parent-friendly restaurants.