Simpson College is a private liberal arts college located in Indianola, Iowa. Founded in 1860, Simpson College offers a wide range of undergraduate majors and minors, as well as graduate programs in education and criminal justice. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of attending Simpson College.
Pros of Simpson College:
- Strong academic programs: Simpson College offers a wide range of academic programs, with over 80 majors and minors. The university is known for its strong programs in business, education, and the arts, among others. The faculty at Simpson are dedicated to providing students with a rigorous education and helping them achieve their academic goals.
- Personal attention: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, students at Simpson College receive individual attention from their professors. This allows for more personalized instruction and mentorship, and helps students develop strong relationships with their teachers.
- Community involvement: Simpson College encourages students to get involved in the community through service projects and volunteer opportunities. The university has a strong commitment to social justice and sustainability, and provides resources for students to get involved in these areas.
- Beautiful campus: Simpson College’s campus is located on 75 acres of wooded grounds in Indianola, Iowa. The campus features stunning architecture, including the historic Carver Science Center, which serves as the university’s academic building.
- Career preparation: Simpson College places a strong emphasis on career preparation and provides students with numerous resources and opportunities to help them achieve their career goals. The university has a Career Development Center that offers career counseling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities.
Cons of Simpson College:
- Cost: Like many private universities, Simpson College is expensive. The cost of tuition, room and board, and other fees can add up quickly, and many students graduate with significant debt. However, the university does offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help mitigate the cost.
- Lack of diversity: While Simpson College is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, the student body is not particularly diverse. This can make it difficult for students from underrepresented backgrounds to feel fully integrated into campus life.
- Limited social scene: Simpson College is a small university, and the social scene can be limited. While there are opportunities for socializing on campus, many students choose to venture off campus to explore the nearby city of Des Moines.
- Athletic facilities: While Simpson College has a strong athletic program, the facilities are somewhat limited. The university has a small gym and athletic fields, but they may not be as impressive as those at larger universities.
- Location: Indianola, Iowa is a small town, which may be a drawback for students who are looking for a more urban experience. While Des Moines is nearby, students may feel limited by the lack of options in the immediate area.
In conclusion, Simpson College offers a strong academic program, a beautiful campus, and a commitment to community involvement. However, the university’s high cost, lack of diversity, limited social scene, limited athletic facilities, and location may be drawbacks for some students. It is important for students to carefully consider these factors when deciding whether or not to attend Simpson College.