Academics
A historically black women’s institution, Spelman College has built a strong reputation for “molding intelligent, goal-oriented young ladies into determined, successful, free-thinking women.” Many prospective students are attracted to the school’s “powerful history,” including the “long list of successful, educated, strong, black women who have attended Spelman College” during the century since its founding. Once on campus, students are happy to report that Spelman’s “professors are committed to the mission of the school,” and they really “bring out the best” in their students. In the classroom, students are “encouraged to state our opinions,” and professors “allow room for us to challenge and discuss what they present.” You’ll definitely work hard to stay afloat in this “challenging academic environment,” because professors “do not allow for even a minute amount of slacking when it comes to completing assignments and being on time for class.” Fortunately, there are “many academic resources available to help us, such as tutoring services and a writing center.” Plus, the majority of Spelman professors “take additional time outside of instructional time to assist their students” with course work. Of particular note, Spelman is “very focused on the sciences and improving the number of African American women in this field, and they offer many facilities, faculty, and opportunities” for advanced study. As graduation approaches, the “Career Counseling Center is extremely strong and has helped numerous students find employment and graduate school placements.” While the future looks bright for Spelman grads, many say this private institution could better serve its students by providing “more money for scholarships and financial aid.”
Student Body
Spelman College is “full of warm, welcoming, sisterly, and highly educated African American women.” A unique environment, “Spelman College offers a chance for African American women to be the majority,” and students appreciate being “surrounded and empowered by other young, intelligent, and goal-oriented women like myself.” At the same time, “the institution promotes diversity within the student body,” and Spelman women “come in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life, though linked by our African descent. Anyone can find their place here.” Confidence and individuality are prized at Spelman, and the typical undergraduate “speaks her mind, wears what she wants, [and] is comfortable in her own skin, yet she has empathy and a strong sense of social justice.” Many students “love to do service for the community” and are involved in philanthropic projects around Atlanta. Spelman women are “hardworking and focused on academics.” However, most are “excellent at balancing a full course load and an active social life.”
Campus Life
There’s a “strong sense of tradition and loyalty” on the Spelman campus, and most students are deeply involved in the community. From service groups to sororities, “there are so many organizations and clubs that you’re bound to find one that fits you.” There are tons of “opportunities to obtain leadership positions” outside the classroom, and many students are “very involved in campus life.” A first-year student details, “In my freshman year already, I’ve walked in a fashion show, I was crowned Miss Glee Club, I write for the campus newspaper.” There’s a constant buzz of activity on campus, and “informational forums, career fairs, college fairs, performances, and sporting events are at the forefront of everyone’s campus life.” Socially, “Greek Life is quite important at Spelman College, but isn’t a must.” Even if you don’t join a sorority, “there are a lot of social events on campus,” and two other historically black colleges, Clark Atlanta and Morehouse, “are only inches away.” Spelman undergrads say, “The camaraderie between the schools is great,” and “joint homecoming with Morehouse is the highlight of the entire year.” Off campus, students “go skating, bowling, and to Six Flags Over Georgia, as well as to Atlanta Falcons, Hawks, and Braves [games].” Nearby, Atlantic Station is home to “a major movie theater, shopping, [and] restaurants.”
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