Franklin and Marshall College

Date: May 14 2011
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
I just completed my first year at Franklin and Marshall College, and, for the most part, I have had an incredible first year. I have truly found my place here in such a short amount of time, and I am grateful for my college counselor suggesting I visit this campus.

The academics are top notch. Everything you will read on the other websites about F&M is completely true. They are tough, demanding, and engaging. You will rarely find a class that doesn't include discussion between professor and students. And, the professors really are there for the student. They want to see the students thrive and grow. Sure, there is the occasional professor that's completely frustrating and hard to work with, but they are far and few in between the ones who spend countless hours with their students, making sure they are understanding material. The only issue I have ever had is getting into Psych230 - a statistics course that three majors require to graduate. I have tried for two semesters to get in, and have not been able to.

There are also a tremendous amount of opportunities available for students. Students can get involved in research opportunities as early as their sophomore years - with no graduate schools, there is no competition to have these opportunities at your fingertips. You also can combine majors, sort of a

create your own education

approach to your undergrad experience.

The house system is incredibly helpful for freshman to feel that initial connectedness to the campus their first few weeks at F&M. As much as students complain of its inflexibility, I feel like that First Year students need support from the faculty members who are a part of the house system, from the Hall Advisors and other students. Past freshman year, it becomes a bit of a nuisance, as a student can only room with someone of the same house. Other than that, I believe that the house system is completely necessary.

A few cons: limited school spirit, food options limited, and the surrounding city. That being said, we do have some school spirit, nothing compared to large schools like Penn State, but it exists. The dining services do offer a lot of variety, but Pandini's is definitely not healthy. And, the city is small and quaint, but not for those who wish to be in NYC.

You must be active in the F&M community to have the full college experience. The people that do not love F&M are those who do not pursue passions outside the academic world. The majority of the campus is really involved in something very close to them. It's vital to get involved in clubs, organizations, sports, community service, etc. Take the time to meet people, to make those initial connections those first few weeks at school. This is the key to happiness at F&M. The Greek system is very different from other schools - people involved in Greek Life are not defined by the fraternity or sorority. They are involved in so many other parts of the school. To have a good time on the weekends, going out to parties isn't necessary, but helpful. The good thing is, no one will force you to drink or do something you are uncomfortable with. But, being in that environment with nice to get away from the academic world for a night. That being said, doing it every night will either royally mess up your academics, or will get you into serious danger.

F&M's small size is also really what allows you to do everything you want to. Take advantage if it - you will never get these kind of opportunities anywhere else.

All in all, I would choose F&M again if I had to go through the college search. It is perfect for someone who wants a strong academic program, a great support system, and a tremendous amount of opportunities.