Oberlin College is a private liberal arts college in Oberlin, Ohio. Founded in 1833, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States. Oberlin is known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to social justice and activism. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of attending Oberlin College.
Pros:
- Strong academic programs: Oberlin College is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. It is also home to a highly-regarded conservatory of music, which attracts talented musicians from around the world. The college offers a wide range of majors and minors, as well as opportunities for independent research and study abroad.
- Diverse student body: Oberlin College has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and more than 50 countries. The college is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or socioeconomic background.
- Strong commitment to social justice and activism: Oberlin College has a strong tradition of social justice and activism, dating back to its founding in the 1830s. Students at Oberlin are encouraged to get involved in social justice causes and activism, and the college offers a wide range of programs and resources to support this work.
- Beautiful campus: Oberlin College is located on a beautiful campus in the small town of Oberlin, Ohio. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, as well as green spaces and public art installations.
- Access to Cleveland and other nearby cities: Oberlin is located about 30 miles from Cleveland, Ohio, which offers a wide range of cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities. The college also has easy access to other nearby cities, such as Akron, Columbus, and Pittsburgh.
Cons:
- Expensive tuition: Like many private colleges in the United States, Oberlin College is expensive, with tuition and fees costing more than $60,000 per year. While the college does offer financial aid and scholarships, the cost of attendance can be a barrier for many students.
- Isolated location: While the campus itself is beautiful, the town of Oberlin is relatively small and isolated. Some students may find the lack of nearby amenities and entertainment options to be a drawback.
- Limited diversity in some areas: While Oberlin is committed to diversity and inclusion, some students may find that certain aspects of campus life are not as diverse as they would like. For example, the college’s student body is predominantly white, and some academic departments may have a limited range of perspectives and approaches.
- Heavy workload: Oberlin College is known for its rigorous academic programs, and students are expected to work hard and engage in independent study and research. Some students may find the workload to be overwhelming or stressful, particularly during their first year of college.
- Limited job opportunities in the local area: While Oberlin College has a strong reputation and a strong network of alumni, job opportunities in the local area may be limited. This may be a concern for students who want to stay in Ohio or the surrounding region after graduation.
In conclusion, Oberlin College is a highly-regarded liberal arts college with many strengths and some drawbacks. Its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to social justice and activism make it an attractive option for many students. However, the college’s high tuition costs, isolated location, and heavy workload may be drawbacks for some students. Ultimately, the decision to attend Oberlin (or any college) should be based on a careful consideration of one’s academic and personal goals, as well as financial and logistical factors.