Bard College Simon's Rock

Date: Feb 06 2015
Major: Philosophy (This Major's Salary over time)
Simon's Rock has changed my life for the better. Before coming to this school, I cared about a lot of things. But here I have learned the importance of hearing out other and different perspectives, of engaging with and internalizing those perspectives, and of questioning those beliefs that I held to be fundamental. It sounds a little intimidating, and sometimes it is, but this level of critical thinking is what ultimately guides one to have a complete understanding of why they believe what they do, and also to start to have a greater understanding and appreciation of those perspectives different from their own.

Faculty are outstanding, always genuinely caring about what their students think, and seeking to encourage thought.

Meaningful conversations with other students are frequent and exciting. Learning abounds, but so does fun. Time management is absolutely key here though, as is patience and the development of stress copping skills (the work load is immense).

Simon's Rock also provides ample opportunities for students to lead, organize, and gain real world skills, whether this is through creating a student club, working in the various offices on campus, or supporting other students through peer advocate positions, etc.

There are nearly endless opportunities to find advisers/mentors here as well.

The community of staff, faculty, and students is close knit and stimulating.

I can't say enough positive about Simon's Rock! If you are ready for a true challenge, and ready to have your thinking challenged and developed, this is an important place to keep in mind. It is a leap of faith to come here, but it can yield incredible experiences that will change your world if you are open to that and willing to work through challenges that will inevitably arise. Overall, a wonderful place. I will almost certainly be staying for my B.A. degree.