Liberal Arts & Science Colleges Offers

American education has long prided itself on its diverse range of top quality higher educational institutes. From large state universities to small private universities, from universities lying at the heart of bustling major cities to campuses in more scenic settings, enfolded by lush countryside and mountains, or nestled on the outskirts of small towns and cities, there is, quite literally, something for everybody!

The liberal arts college holds a special place in the tradition of American education. They can be distinguished by their small, diverse communities and extremely low teacher to student class ratios. They also offer a wide range of courses which allows students to receive a more holistic education programme, should they choose not to specialize in one major. Its ethos stresses variety and places emphasis on personal interaction in small groups both inside and outside of the classroom. Clearly, this is not for everybody. Some students leave high school with at least an idea of what they might like to specialize in, and quite often they desire to experience university life on larger campuses in major cities. Others may have more than one strong interest and are not yet ready to make firm decisions. They may also wish to remain part of a smaller community. The liberal arts education model provides one option for this latter type of student.  

So, what makes a student from Dulwich International High School Suzhou choose the liberal arts model?

This year, we have six students who have received offers from prestigious liberal arts colleges in the USA, four of whom chose to apply for Early Decision. We spoke to them about their choices, motivations and aspirations in their future learning.

Cathy W. has received an offer from Occidental College and states that she loves the idea of having two years of courses and the freedom to explore diverse academic interests before making a final decision on a major, or even a double major. This is also what initially attracted Elizabeth C, who will matriculate to Haverford College this year and wants to study Economics, Linguistics and Astronomy. She feels that the liberal arts model of education is perfect for her because of the flexibility offered in exploring her eclectic academic interests. That this will allow her to take some time before making more informed choices about her future career interests. She also cites the small community feature as a major factor in her decision to attend a liberal arts college. Soren G will attend Reed College and also talks enthusiastically about this aspect and the importance of personal interaction. He can’t wait to get into the university classroom and engage with his professors and peers. 

The importance of participation and understanding personal growth 

Both Elizabeth and Soren stress the integral influence that the Dulwich model of schooling has had on them in choosing a liberal arts education pathway. Students are encouraged to try new things through an extensive array of clubs and Co-curricular offerings. Elizabeth feels that her time in Dulwich has provided her with a vibrant environment in which students are encouraged to develop interpersonal skills, be proactive and take on various roles. Inspired by this she cofounded a Spanish culture club and became a House Captain for two years, honing her communication and leadership skills. She says that this type of environment is complimented by very supportive teachers in both academic and Co-curricular contexts, and this is a vital component for students in their educational journey.

Soren wittily remarks that he likes Dulwich teachers because they generally have a good sense of humor and he finds them easy to talk. But he also stresses the importance of this to him personally. He says he has always felt engaged and supported, but perhaps most importantly, he stresses how he has enjoyed his time in high school, while developing into a confident young adult. He feels this has been vital to his personal learning experience and he views the liberal arts college as the ideal setting for him to continue achieving both academically and personally, through engagement and participation in a small community. This confidence in taking part is what Cathy highlights as a key factor from her time in Dulwich. She feels that her involvement in Model United Nations (MUN) and debating societies, to name but two of her experiences, played a central part in her preparation for university life by further developing her critical thinking and writing skills. Hermione S. has received an offer and a scholarship from Macalester College in Minnesota to study media and communications. She says having drama class has had a hugely positive impact on her learning experience and personal development in her school life, increasing her self-confidence and improving her communication skills. She has a strong interest in the entertainment industry and her time at school has included active participation in drama productions and the Chinese Drama Society. Soren talked profusely on the importance of drama as a subject, and how he feels this subject helps all Dulwich students to nurture creativity and self-expression.  

Nurturing self-confidence

In talking to these students, their self-confidence and positivity are immediately noticeable, and it is no surprise that a strong sense of personal development and growth underpins their reasons for choosing a liberal arts education. Although many liberal arts colleges are very competitive and admission is highly selective, our students feel that their time at Dulwich has equipped them with the right opportunities and environment to prepare well for attending university. Perhaps most telling is our students’ sense of self-assurance, in their ability to take initiative, conduct research and weigh options. While Elizabeth had also applied to some large private and public universities in the USA, it wasn’t until she attended an online conference last winter (hosted by top liberal arts colleges) and contacted various admissions departments with questions, that she realized that the liberal arts college would be where she truly belongs. It is this process of growth and discovery that each student individually undertakes in their personal learning journey, which lays the foundations for their achievements and successes.  

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