For two years now, I've lived and studied at the College of the Holy Cross-a small, Jesuit, liberal arts school in Worcester, Massachusetts. When applying to colleges, I chose Holy Cross because of the location, the academic programs, the extracurricular opportunities, and the atmosphere of campus. As I have moved into my dorm now and am starting to settle into junior year, here are some of my favorite things about campus!
1. The Vines, Bricks, and Towers
Asthetically speaking, Holy Cross is beautiful. Lots of towers and old brick buildings adorn the hill, making it look like my very own kind of Hogwarts.
2. Boston, You're My Home
Located in Worcester, Massachusetts on Mount Saint James, there is a great view from the top of the hill, and campus resources make it easy to go places. Boston is an hour east, Providence is an hour south, and shuttles make it possible for students to go to both of these locations, and to downtown Worcester and the Millbury mall.
3. The History
Holy Cross was founded by the Jesuits in 1843, and has a really cool history behind it. As "men and women for others," the college is routed in the tradition of giving back to the community.
4. Cool Beans Dates
One of my favorite things to do on campus is have a Cool Beans date with a friend-for studying, catching up, or meeting about a club of some sort. Getting a tea, hot chocolate, or sometimes a milkshake makes the day just a little bit better.
5. Cantor Art Gallery
The Cantor Art Gallery houses all sorts of cool exhibits every semester, from students as well as artists from all over. Just last semester, an exhibit that used Kelp as a subject made video art pieces of Kelp Tides and sculptures of the Kelp as well.
6. The Library
Dinand Library is a favorite spot for many students. The students in the library at late hours feel like they're in it together. It's quiet, peaceful, and there's lots of space for students to study. They've also got a huge supply of books!
7. The Size and Atmosphere
Holy Cross is pretty small-only 3,000 students. The atmosphere on campus is very warm and welcoming and made me, as a nervous freshman, very comfortable.
8. Resources for Students
From Career Planning to Therapy, there are loads of resources on campus, and all the staff is very willing to help out.
9. Clubs!
There are lots of clubs and activities on campus. It's so easy to get involved in music groups, student government, community service-you name it, there's a club or activity.
10. The Spirit
The spirit and school pride on campus is amazing. Orientation Leaders are super enthusiastic about what they do, Pep Rallies are loads of fun, and sports games bring fans along for the ride. At the NCAA basketball tournament in 2016, the campus eatery called Crossroads was packed with students, watching the game.
11. The Professors
The professors are all super involved in the success of students, and give lot's of opportunity for one-on-one in the classroom and office hours.
12. Alumni
Alumni are very involved in the success of Holy Cross, and donate time and money to make higher education possible for thousands of students.
13. Liberal Arts Education
As a liberal arts school, Holy Cross offers a huge range of programs and allows for strange combinations: like my English Major with an Environmental Studies Minor and a Creative Writing Concentration.
14. The Marching Band and Athletics
Being a part of the band has been an irreplaceable experience. I'm sure most of the athletes on campus feel the same way. Band is my family, and athletics drive student-athletes to achieve their goals and push themselves to be better.
15. The Guest Speakers
Holy Cross has so many opportunities, and one of the coolest things is the guest speakers that they bring in. I've listened to people like Gretel Ehrlich and Neil Degrasse Tyson speak at Holy Cross. Every department invites speakers and allow students to learn about people, careers, and subjects that they wouldn't necessarily learn about in their classes or majors.
16. Jesuit Mission
The Jesuits are a Catholic religious order known for its spirituality, commitment to education and justice, and active engagement with the world. Their concept of dialogue and change is central to the Holy Cross Education. It drives the meaningful discussions and opportunities at Holy Cross.
17. My friends Are Here
The best thing about Holy Cross is the people. I've made so many great memories and gotten so many great friends. The people I've met at Holy Cross are some of the most genuine, caring people I've ever met. Life on Mount Saint James wouldn't be the same without them!