You know a woman loves her alma mater when she still keeps endowing it with money, even during the recession. According to the National Association of College and University Business Officers, Hollins’ endowment ranks among the nation’s strongest, even in the middle of the recession. If this fact doesn't convince you how dearly alumnae love their school, just drop by one of Hollins' yearly reunions—wild, crazy, and filled with plenty of nostalgia (and alcohol). Hollins graduates love their school.
The closeness of the community, the unique traditions, the discussion-based classes, and the beauty of the campus are all traits that endear Hollins to her students. Memories of climbing Tinker Mountain in gold pants and a feather boa, having English class on Front Quad, driving all over town on a scavenger hunt during Ring Night, painting the senior rock, and hanging out at professors’ houses will stick with students for the rest of their lives. The key to feeling like a member of the community is getting involved in clubs, organizations, and campus events.
Hollins isn't perfect. Some students get bored with the small size of the campus or get frustrated with the way gossip spreads like the Swine Flu. Some don’t adjust well to the single-sex atmosphere or simply find out that Hollins doesn’t offer the academic program they were looking for. Students who get the most from their Hollins experience are those who take advantage of the many services the school has to offer, such as competitive internships and leadership opportunities, and those who work hard in their classes. According to the polls, the majority of current students would choose Hollins again.