Photo by: Tara Freeman. Retrieved from: www.usnews.com
Most infamously known for the Economics and Political Science programs, it is no surprise that many St. Lawrence University alumni graduate to play an active role in political groups and local governments. Many students are also members of the Student Government, Debate Team and many other political clubs and organizations at the University that meet on a state and national level. There are over 35+ majors in addition to the liberal arts and political based degrees at St. Lawrence University. Many students prefer to pursue a double major in order to maximize their college experience and obtain multi-level degree backgrounds to optimize their professional preparation. Campus life offers a supportive, free-spirited environment for students – encouraging them to develop new skills.
Most of the full-time faculty members at St. Lawrence University hold advanced degrees in their specialty fields of interest – giving students an academic advantage to learn from hands-on experiences. All students are given access to the Student resource Center and Computer Labs to enhance their classroom learning experiences, as well as obtain the help they need to prepare for their professional careers such as interview and resume assistance. This close-knit community allows students to experience the various aspects of college life – preparing them academically, mentally and socially for their professional life after graduation.
School History
St. Lawrence University has a rich history that dates back to the late 1500s. Founded in 1856, the college developed its name from the infamous Jacques Cartier who named the Gulf of St, Lawrence in 1535, becoming the basis of the school name two centuries later. Just one year later after the school was chartered; construction of the campus began, developing the first building which is now known as Richardson Hall. The first graduating class received their diplomas in 1861 – at the time the school was only operating as a theology school. Two years later, St. Lawrence honored its first women graduate, Ms. Olympia Brown, who went on to become the first ordained woman in the United States. Just as the Civil War ended in 1865 and President Lincoln was assassinated, St. Lawrence honored the first graduating class of the College of Letters and Science, which consisted of only two women.
St. Lawrence University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on higher Education.
By 1869, St. Lawrence developed what is now known as Moving Up Day, an annual Spring event that allows students and faculty members to join together and transplant trees around campus rather than attend classes. This is a tradition that is still in place today. Shortly after, the college developed their athletic programs, offering students a wide selection of intramural sports to help them develop team and leadership skills effectively. Today, the college is well known for its varsity teams. Over the years, St. Lawrence University has lived through many presidents, each adding their own benefits and programs to enhance the curriculum. However, throughout the terms and changes, St. Lawrence has always been dedicated to providing students with the most well-rounded education and opportunities possible during their college years.
By 1951, the college had lived through and survived many obstacles including wars, the Great Depression and the fire that destroyed the 70 year old home for the Theology School hosted in Fisher Hall. However, the strength and determination of the faculty and students conquered the uncontrollable circumstances, enabling them to keep the school and students safe and accommodated for classes.
Campus Life
Students at St. Lawrence University rarely have a lull in events on campus. With over 70+ student operated clubs and organizations actively hosting events, seminars and live performances throughout the campus grounds. Faculty and staff members strive to ensure that students have all the assistance and essential amenities located right on campus such as laundry facilities and dining options. Providing a well balanced surrounding enables students to remain intellectually stimulated both in and out of the classroom.
The majority of St. Lawrence University students live on campus, creating a close-knit community within the college grounds of students, faculty members and student life staff members. This enables students to develop their individual talents, skills and professional advantages more effectively. Each student has the choice of housing in the various residential halls, as well as the fraternity and sorority houses located throughout the campus. There is off campus apartment complexes established for undergraduate students as well. Most of the housing halls are established by interest, major or athletic affiliations to help students get accustomed to college life and their peers. However, at St. Lawrence University, many students take advantage of the study abroad program, giving them the opportunity to maximize their education, living amongst various cultures and communities around the world.
Athletics remain a vital part of campus life at St. Lawrence University. Many students are actively involved in the various varsity and intramural sports teams that meet throughout the campus. Up until 1942, the St. Lawrence University football team was undefeated – an achievement that many teams to do not accomplish.
Financial Aid
St. Lawrence University staff and faculty members are attentive and dedicated to providing students with reliable financial aid options while attending school. Reducing the financial stress on students enables them a solid foundation to focus on their academics rather than financials. As students are accepted to St. Lawrence, they are considered for a variety of private financial aid options such as merit-based aid and athletic scholarships from the school. FAFSA and NYS TAP loans are accepted and encouraged to ensure students can take advantage of both partial and full tuition coverage. Many students at St. Lawrence also take advantage of the work study program in place on and off campus to ensure that students can work in their field while attending school to help reduce costs.
The Office of Financial Aid at St. Lawrence is available to help students qualify and apply for the various financial aid options, including helping them to prepare and submit loan documents. Faculty and counselors are available for support for both students and their families. First year students are encouraged to visit the Financial Aid Office before the start of the first semester to ensure all funding options are considered.
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