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Hampden-Sydney College provides students with a quality, private liberal arts education within a close-knit community of students and faculty members. The campus atmosphere offers a strong sense of encouragement and self-development for all students to grow and advance their personal and professional lives. Located just outside the city of Richmond, the campus grounds contain a wealth of historical buildings, traditions and reputable alumni that have all helped to establish a strong foundation of academic excellence.
Many students pursue degrees in the Political Science course, graduating to become leaders in their community and state legislatures. Many Hampden-Sydney College alumni actively contribute to their communities in this manner, developing privately run activist and political campaigns. Or those students that prefer a more professional based program of study, the Business and Commerce program offered at Hampden-Sydney has developed a high standing on an international level.
School History
Founded in 1775, Hampden-Sydney College is noted as one of the oldest collegiate institutes in the country, receiving the first charter in 1783, the first accreditation of private colleges in the southern sector. Known as the “Log School’ from the beginning days of operation, the College based its curriculum and social structure on that of the University of Edinburgh, which the College held in high regard. Under the reign of the first president, Dr. John Witherspoon, the College was able to establish a strong foundation that later became the foundation for Witherspoon’s second academic involvement, now known as Princeton University.
Hampden-Sydney College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and an active member of the Association of Virginia Colleges.
Although the school was accredited years after it began operations, it has since developed one of the most profound liberal arts education platforms in the country. Incorporating new programs and courses to accommodate the changing times has helped Hampden-Sydney College maintain student involvement and preparation for life after graduation. With the help of iconic figures such as Rev. Samuel Stanhope and Patrick Henry, Hampden-Sydney College has continued to excel in academic and student enrichment.
Campus Life
Campus life at Hampden-Sydney College provides students with the tools needed to stimulate their mind through a variety of perspectives such as culture, art, literature and social sciences. Students have helped mold the framework for all activities, organizations and programs offered on campus including the infamous Rhetoric Program that was established in the first decade of operation. By giving students the opportunity to work and study amongst their peers, With over 60 clubs to choose from, each student is given the opportunity to showcase their interests, beliefs and skills, while proving to themselves their strengths and weaknesses. The student body works hard to maintain their independence, fully operating the majority of organizations run on campus, and expediting campus life such as rallies, awareness meetings and fundraising events for various causes. Many students also participate in the athletic activities offered throughout the campus on both varsity and intramural levels.
Students can also take advantage of the variety of honor societies that are established on campus, providing life-long friendships and opportunities that they can rely on. Hampden-Sydney College maintains a strict code of honor throughout the campus grounds, following a zero-tolerance for discrimination and cultural prejudice. Since the student body represents over 25 states and 15 countries, encouraging a multicultural acceptance on campus is vital o the enrichment of all students.
Residence life offers a unique sense of community amongst students, many of which live on campus in one of the residence halls. Although students have their choice in housing facilities, many choose to dorm together in one of the apartment style complexes that accommodate up to three students per dorm. Many students take advantage of Greek Life on campus, housing in one of the sorority and fraternity houses located throughout the campus. Despite where you choose to reside, all students have access to the Shuttle Service that helps students commute to and from classes, campus buildings and outside campus amenities.
Financial Aid
Financial aid has been an important part of Hampden-Sydney College life since the beginning of existence. In honor of the founders, the College works hard to ensure that all students can obtain a quality education regardless of financial status. In order to accomplish this, students are introduced to the various financial aid options during orientation. This enables them to explore all options that will help them to optimize their college experience. Hampden-Sydney College encourages students to apply for both federal and state funding to ensure timely registration. Many students also apply for third party funding from various charity and community organizations. This ensures that all tuition and personal expenses are covered and students can focus on their studies and advancements.
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