Introduction
Dartmouth College is an Ivy League university located in Hanover, New Hampshire. Founded in 1769, it is the ninth oldest college in the United States. Dartmouth is a private, four-year liberal arts college that offers undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. It is renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus. Here are some fun facts about Dartmouth College that will make you appreciate this amazing institution even more.
A Founding Father
One of the most interesting facts about Dartmouth College is that it was founded by none other than Founding Father, Reverend Eleazar Wheelock. Wheelock was a Congregational minister and philanthropist who wanted to create a college for Native Americans. He set up a fundraising campaign to raise money for the college, and was successful in securing a charter from King George III in 1769. The college was named after William Legge, the Earl of Dartmouth, who was a major supporter of Wheelock’s endeavor.
A Unique Ranking System
Unlike other colleges and universities, Dartmouth does not use the traditional grading system. Instead, it has a unique ranking system that is based on a student’s academic performance in relation to their peers. Students are ranked on a scale of 1-7, with 1 being the highest and 7 being the lowest. This system was implemented in the early 1900s and has been in place ever since.
A Home Away from Home
Another fun fact about Dartmouth is that it has its own town. The town of Hanover was founded in 1761, and is home to more than 11,000 people. The town is closely connected to the college, and many of its residents are either alumni or faculty members. The town is also home to many of the college’s cultural and athletic events, including the famous Green Key Weekend.
A Leader in Education
Dartmouth is renowned for its academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. It is one of the eight Ivy League universities and is well-known for its liberal arts education. Its faculty includes some of the most esteemed scholars in the world, and its students are among the brightest and most motivated in the country.
A Thriving Arts Scene
Dartmouth is home to a vibrant arts community. The college has a long-standing tradition of supporting the arts, and it is home to many renowned art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The college also has its own theater troupe, the Dartmouth Players, which has been performing for over 100 years.
Athletic Excellence
Dartmouth is also well-known for its athletic program. The college is a member of the NCAA Division I and competes in the Ivy League. The college has won numerous championships in a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. The college also has a strong tradition of intramural sports, and its students often participate in a variety of activities including skiing, sailing, and mountaineering.
A Rich History
Dartmouth College has a long and storied history. The college has been home to many esteemed alumni, including President Franklin Pierce, Nobel Prize winner Robert Frost, and Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. The college has also had a long relationship with the U.S. military, and many of its students have served in the armed forces.
Conclusion
Dartmouth College is an amazing institution that has a long and storied history. Its founding by Reverend Eleazar Wheelock, unique ranking system, and its own town of Hanover are just some of the many interesting facts about Dartmouth College. Its academic excellence, vibrant arts scene, and athletic success make it one of the most prestigious universities in the world.”