Academics

they are very rigorous, from what i've seen. there are a ton of research opportunities, and lot's of one on one time with professors. no tas and no big classes.

The first semester here was the most challenging, stressful, difficult time of my life. I have never been in such a cutthroat competitive environment. Thus, I learned to use the outside resources (SAW program, tutors, and office hours) to my full advantage, and in the end it paid off. It is hard but they want you to succeed.

When I applied to this college, I wanted to be challenged academically and I was. There are classes that I have spent at least ten hours a week studying for and readings I have reread to make sure I understand the underlying meaning of the author's words. This is not a school for the faint of heart. It is academically challenging but the small class sizes, the professors who care and are willing to listen, and the resources available make it worth it.

Depending on the professor, classes may range from straight-forward and simple to cryptic and spending all your nights the week before a paper is due frantically typing and wishing for some kind of caffeinated IV-drip. However, as long as you plan ahead and start major projects as early as possible, and develop close bonds with professors, the academic stress is entirely manageable.

you cannot be stupid here. give it up. your days of passively going through your classes are over. there are no easy classes at mount holyoke. each class will challenge you and make you work. it's the best thing ever.