College of the Holy Cross (HC)

College of the Holy Cross provides "an incredible learning environment for students" through a holistic and self-explorational combination of academics, "strong student life," and "small classes." As a Jesuit liberal arts school with the mission of "men and women for and with others," it sends students into the world with "a broad-based foundation to be successful in a variety of careers." The school encourages students "to reflect on their experiences and continue to better himself/herself as a whole person" and to this end is "dedicated to creating an exciting learning environment" and offering "endless opportunities." One such means to this end is the Montserrat program, which places first-years in one of six interdisciplinary "cluster," with whom they'll live and study, creating a personalized experience that blends classroom and life: where "you're more than just a number in the classroom and on the field." One student attests, "From the acceptance letter alone, I knew that my entire application was read thoroughly and that my character was closely examined." Each incoming class has a dedicated Class Dean that remains with them throughout graduation to provide mentorship and guidance, and additional support can be found in the "fantastic alumni network." Those undergoing the "rigorous" academics say the school equips them "with an intangible set of skills that not only prepares them for a job, but for life." Professors "get to know you on an individual and personal level" and are "always accessible and more than happy to help." As one student puts it, "It is a place where like in the parable of the mustard seed one can grow." One student, recognizing that their work will not go unrewarded, says that Holy Cross "demands enormous amounts of work from its students, but puts them in a great position to succeed."

At College of the Holy Cross, "people take their work very seriously" and tend to be "studious with an activity or two that defines their interests and what they do during the weekend." They are also "very put together" and "generally articulate," with "a diverse set of interests" that range from ballroom dance to space exploration. It is rare "to find someone with no extracurricular responsibilities," according to one student. While most are from New England, the main commonality is that "all love being here" and "there is a tremendous sense of community." School pride is rampant among this "uncommonly friendly" group and everyone loves "going to sporting events, especially football and basketball." A student sums up, "If you want to do well academically, have fun on the weekend...study hard and play hard, then you will fit in at Holy Cross."

Because each study cluster lives together, "many of the friends you make your first year will stay with you for years to come," and 88 percent of students remain on the "exceptionally beautiful" campus after their mandatory first year. All types of dietary needs are catered to (the college has previously been selected for a "healthiest dining halls" list), but students also point to "amazing" options in nearby Worcester or Boston, which is just a free 45-mile shuttle away. For those interested, there are "countless opportunities to learn through internships [and] speaker series." Additionally, there are "a multitude" of more than 100 student organizations ranging from academic to the arts, the largest being the Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD), which organizes community service programs in the surrounding area and nationwide. While the library dominates the week, weekends are for letting loose, whether that's "riding the mechanical bull at a local bar" or events sponsored by the Student Government Association "such as karaoke or dances [that] are a blast."