1. Experiential Learning: At College of the Atlantic, learning goes beyond the classroom. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on, experiential learning through field research, internships, and community-based projects.
2. Environmental Focus: As the first college in the United States to focus solely on the study of human ecology, COA offers a unique and comprehensive approach to understanding the relationship between humans and the environment. Students gain a deep understanding of environmental issues and develop sustainable solutions.
3. Small Class Size: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, students at COA benefit from individual attention and mentorship from professors. This fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
4. Interdisciplinary Approach: COA believes in the power of integrating different disciplines to solve complex problems. Students have the freedom to design their own major, allowing them to pursue their passions and combine multiple areas of study.
5. Outdoor Classroom: COA’s location on Mount Desert Island in Maine provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor learning. From marine biology studies on the coast to forest ecology research in Acadia National Park, students have access to a unique and diverse outdoor classroom.
6. Community Engagement: COA is deeply rooted in the local community and encourages students to actively engage with it. Through service-learning projects and partnerships with local organizations, students make a positive impact while applying their knowledge in real-world settings.
7. Global Perspective: COA attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant and diverse community. This global perspective enriches the learning experience and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
8. Independent Study: COA places a strong emphasis on self-directed learning. Students have the opportunity to design and pursue independent study projects, allowing them to delve into topics of personal interest and develop their research skills.
9. Career Opportunities: COA graduates are well-prepared for careers in a wide range of fields, including environmental activism, conservation, policy-making, education, and research. The college’s strong network of alumni and connections in the environmental sector provide numerous job and internship opportunities.
10. Close-Knit Community: With a tight-knit community of around 350 students, COA offers a supportive and welcoming environment. Students form lasting friendships and build a strong network of peers and mentors.
In conclusion, attending College of the Atlantic offers numerous benefits, including experiential learning opportunities, a focus on the environment, small class sizes, an interdisciplinary approach, an outdoor classroom, community engagement, a global perspective, independent study options, diverse career opportunities, and a close-knit community. If you are passionate about human ecology and want to make a difference in the world, COA may be the perfect fit for you. Visit their website at coa.edu for more information.