Overview
Mount Holyoke is an all-women’s liberal arts college is western Massachusetts, part of the five college consortium (5 colleges in the vicinity, with access to classes and activities, a community of more than 30K students). Mount Holyoke is very diverse (30% international, 25% domestic students of color), with quite a global focus in classes. The day I visited was the last day of classes for the spring semester, and students looked happy and excited (despite upcoming finals). The campus felt welcoming and inviting, and the small town of South Hadley is just opposite campus, so it doesn’t feel too isolated.
Students and Graduates
There is a concerted effort to enable graduates to explore career options, with a specific office (Lynk program) that helps students think about and take action on transferring what they learn into careers, whether through internships, career explorations, or job searches. They also guarantee funding for one summer internship for all students, which is a great resource. The strong alumni network, which is seen as an important differentiator at all women’s colleges, is very strong and actve at Mount Holyoke.
Mission
Mount Holyoke’s mantra is Never Fear/ Change, which students interpret in many different ways. I got the sense that students were pushing the envelope, trying things in new ways, and not taking the “easy” path. Students here seemed to want to engage, ask provocative questions, and not take no for an answer.
