If you asked Bates students what they love about their school I think you’d hear about friendly students, close relationships with faculty, great internships and service learning opportunities and other factors, but since those are available at other schools as well I’ll list some of the things I think are unique, or almost unique, to Bates.
-Its history of inclusiveness. Bates admitted women and black students from the start and has never had sororities and fraternities… Only Oberlin can claim a similar history.
-Short Term. It’s similar to other schools’ January term, but by having it at the end of the year the college can provide a greater range of opportunities, some of which can bleed into the summer.
-The Purposeful Work initiative, which focuses not only on helping students gain the skills and experience they need to get jobs, but figure out what they want to do with their lives, what kind or work will be fulfilling and meaningful to them.
-Puddle Jump. A fun tradition!