I’m from St. Albans, Vermont, a town of about 7,000 people among 15.5 square miles. The town of Castleton, on the other hand, is home to under 5,000 people spread over about 42.5 square miles. Even for a Vermonter like myself, attending Castleton has been a different and humbling experience unlike any other in my life. If it has been rewarding for me, I can’t imagine how the same experience feels for someone from say Boston, or Anaheim, or Vancouver--places much bigger than where I come from.

The small town and school allow you to focus more on yourself: your goals….your passions…who you really are without outside distractions or influences. Castleton makes you realize what is most important to you because here you have the perfect atmosphere to think. Here, we are surrounded by nature, serenity and kind, hard-working people who are busy living their own peaceful Vermont lives.

Castleton’s downtown is beautifully kept and managed, and only about three blocks long. But despite its size, it manages to boast a diner, gas station, barber shop, library, bakery, post office, restaurant/bar, convenience store, and of course access to our picturesque university. We may live in a small town, but whatever we might need is right at the reach of our fingertips.

Stray from downtown and the sights and opportunities get even better. Miles of hilly landscape and winding country roads highlight the town, along with a multitude of barns and their charming farmhouses alongside. The scenic, sleepy roads are popular among runners and bikers, especially during the Fall when the leaves change color and the weather is perfect for outdoor exercise.

About a mile down the road from Castleton University, off a beaten path you can find a rope swing and pond nestled between the trees. This is a place students look forward to visiting every year when they arrive back to school. The fall sports athletes may even consider the nook a safe haven—a much-needed escape from the scorching days of preseason.

In Castleton’s neighboring town of Hubbardton, another scenic gem can be found. The Zen Garden at Mount Zion is a popular attraction for locals, visitors and Castleton students alike because of its unique aura. Those who seek a peaceful and relaxing escape from their schoolwork, or life responsibilities, visit Zen Garden. Found here are hiking trails which are preceded by a Japanese Garden complete with waterfalls, small statues, unique fountains and rock paths. For those who prefer a more exciting escape from reality, Pond Hill Ranch in Castleton puts on a weekly rodeo, with live horses and real cowboys, through the summers and until the beginning of September.

Another form of entertainment for Castleton students and locals are the sports games. Castleton University boasts 17 NCAA Division III sports teams, many of which play under the lights of Spartan Stadium. Spartan Arena in Rutland, Vermont is another Castleton-affiliated facility, which is home to the men’s and women’s ice hockey teams.

No matter why you come here, though, I can attest to the fact that Castleton will help you grow. You will discover, experience and create opportunity here. Any school is what you make of it, but the resources, setting and people of Castleton University make it difficult to dislike.