All students want to go to college to receive an education, but many are also looking for something more as they make their particular choice. One aspect that quite a few students look for is a different cultural experience, something outside their norm. Let’s look at what campus culture actually means and 10 colleges with cool campus cultures.
What Does Campus Culture Mean?
Flickr user Curtis Cronn
When you hear the word culture you might think of shared beliefs, values, and traditions that bring a group together—and college campuses are no different. Ever heard of a school being called a party school or being known for its strong athletic spirit? That reputation often comes from the campus culture—and it can make or break your college experience. That’s why it’s so important to consider it when choosing where you’ll spend the next four years. You want to find a place where you’ll feel at home.
If you’re looking for a college experience that you’ll remember forever, here are some things to keep in mind when exploring campus culture:
- How diverse is the student body? Will you meet people from all walks of life, or will it feel like everyone’s the same?
- What is community involvement like? Are there clubs, organizations, or volunteer opportunities that interest you?
- Does the school have quirky traditions that make it more exciting?
- Are there opportunities for personal growth?
- Do they offer study abroad programs?
- What’s the city like? Are there coffee shops, cool hangout spots, or even a unique local culture to explore?
10 Colleges With Cool Campus Cultures
From liberal arts colleges and small universities to schools with strong student organizations or those surrounded by nature, many factors play into what makes a cool campus culture. Here’s a closer look at 10 schools that stick out from the rest:
1. UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Known For: Having one of the best study abroad programs in the United States. With hundreds of choices, there are plenty of sections for any major, language, or interest. Students can study Asian Languages and Literature in China during the summer, Gender, Culture, and Human Rights in India, Architecture in Rome, Spanish in Peru, and more.
2. UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
Known For: Their rigorous academics and love of unique traditions. For example, their annual ScavHunt is a four-day event that involves humor, playful rigor, and inclusion.
3. EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
Known For: Their study abroad program with over 300 locations and 580 programs available. The university is definitely a shining beacon for students looking for a culture outside their norm. Programs also include short-term study, intern, field, practical, and long-term opportunities.
Eastern Illinois University also offers an amazing cultural experience right on campus every week. The curriculum includes visiting historical areas, touring scenic locations, and more. Want to get out of your comfort zone? They also have that with skydiving and bungee jumping.
4. REED COLLEGE
Known For: Being a place for independent thinkers. Reed is all about challenging academics and unique traditions, like Paideia—a week where students teach classes on subjects they are passionate about.
5. UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO
Known For: Being one of the most popular school choices located in Colorado. Its extensive culture includes having been named “America’s Foodiest Town” and is also famous for its art, pedestrian and cyclist-friendly paths, and beautiful scenery. The city offers plenty of community service opportunities and the school itself has over 400 clubs, groups, and organizations.
6. OBERLIN COLLEGE
Known For: Its love of the arts and progressive values. Oberlin has an incredible music conservatory and lets students design creative Winter-Term projects to explore whatever excites them.
7. WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
Known For: Its artsy, creative community. Wesleyan has a thriving music and art scene, making it a great spot for students who want to express themselves.
8. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN- ANN ARBOR
Known For: Snowy winters and Michigan’s outdoor beauty. Many students tend to bond over outdoor activities like sledding, skiing, kayaking, and hiking.
9. UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
Known For: It’s southern charm and big-school spirit. Students love venturing downtown, tailgating for football games, and enjoying the local music and food scene. Plus, UGA has great access to outdoor escapes like hiking trails and the beautiful North Georgia mountains.
10. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Known For: Its prestigious programs in the arts and diverse academic opportunities. The campus itself hosts many ways for students to get involved and it’s located right in Los Angeles, so students bond over local cultural events, entertainment, and even industry connections.
This is just a glimpse into a few out of hundreds of colleges—each with its own unique culture that entices students. Whether you’re artsy, crave community, thrive on deep conversations, or live for sports, every college has something special to offer. You just have to find which one is for you—and College Raptor’s College Match tool can help you do just that!
Researching College Cultures
When you are researching colleges, use these tips to help you find the culture that’s right for you:
- Talk to Current Students: The best way to find out about the campus culture is to ask the students who experience it everyday! Ask them what they love about their campus, the city they live in, their favorite school traditions, or what a typical weekend looks like.
- Visit: Try to experience the atmosphere of the school yourself. The best time to do this is in the fall or spring when campus activities are at their peak. You can attend a campus tour, sit in on a class, or even plan your visit during a big event like a football game or cultural festivity.
- Check Out Social Media: Many schools nowadays post on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok as a way to showcase what is going on regularly. This can be a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look.
- Look Beyond the Campus: The reality of college is that you will have to venture off campus at some point, so, make sure the city your college is located in feels like home. Do you dream of being in a smaller town that’s close to nature, or do you want to be right in the middle of a lively city? These are important factors to consider during your search.
If you’re interested in a particular school, make sure you check out any information on their campus life, city, and study abroad programs before applying. You may just find a college high on your interest list that has the perfect opportunities for you! Remember, no two schools are the same. When you find the right campus culture—it’ll just click.
Interested in any of these schools? Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to discover if they’re a good fit for you!
