Smith College

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One thing is for sure, Smith is not for everyone. One person’s favorite part of the school could be another’s most-hated aspect. Some cannot handle the single-sex environment, while others find it to be their favorite part of Smith. Some are miserable with the social scene and feel limited in their options, while others are perfectly content. It’s a college of extremes, and when talking to Smith students, you’ll probably find that most have an ambivalent relationship with the school. However, when it comes down to it, the education received at Smith is top-notch. The small classes and wide range of academic opportunities ensure that students are engaged and challenged. Moreover, Smith is committed to providing opportunities that most students don’t get until graduate school, such as independent research with professors in their first year or writing graduate-level theses.

Smith is not a huge party school and it’s not a stereotypical college experience, but, for most Smith students, that’s exactly the way they like it. The small campus can make students feel claustrophobic at times, but there is a tremendous sense of community, and the comfort and security of the campus ensures that students have four years to discover themselves and really come into their own. Time and again, alumnae have told students they are still very close to their friends from Smith. The campus community fosters tight bonds that last far beyond graduation.

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cccshell Smith '13 French Language and Literature Aug 03, 2010

Wet and Cold C+ It rains and snows a LOT in Northampton. Fortunately, the campus sidewalks usually get cleared pretty quickly, and buildings are close together, but it can be unpleasant getting around in the winter months. Bring warm clothes! On the other hand, there is some very nice weather in the fall and spring, and everyone loves to lay out on Chapin Lawn, study on front porches, etc. 12345 Report Weather

cccshell Smith '13 French Language and Literature Aug 03, 2010

There If You Want It B- Nightlife is a take-it-or-leave-it sort of affair at Smith. There is usually one house party each weekend, and many people like to go to Diva's (an 18+ club) or to parties at the other colleges, especially UMass. The PVTA bus system is useful for those off-campus parties if you want to go to them. A word to the wise: Don't try to meet men at Smith parties. Most of them are weird, creepy, and just looking for an easy lay. Go, dance with your friends, and meet some lovely ladies instead! For those who don't like to go out, that is seen as totally normal, and you can have tons of fun staying in and watching movies if that's what you choose. 12345 Report Nightlife

cccshell Smith '13 French Language and Literature Aug 03, 2010

Greek-Free and Loving It! N/A The houses provide a great sense of community without all the cliques, hazing, etc., that go along with a Greek system. 12345 Report Greek Life

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Most Recent Student Author

Name: Dara Kagan
Hometown: Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y.
Major: Government, with a minor in the Study of Women and Gender

Fun Fact: Dara absolutely loves West Wing, the New York Times, cooking shows, Capen House, Roald Dahl, and Harry Potter. She has never been happier than she is at Smith and can't imagine going to college anywhere else!

see the previous student authors

Smith College Student Authors

Contributing Authors

College Prowler is actively seeking talented student authors to assist with writing and updating the College Prowler guides to their schools. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain experience, be a part of a nationally recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is really like at your college. Read more about this opportunity.