Lawrence University
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Lawrence University: Transformative research, travel, and professional experience

University is not just a place where you spend three to four years of your life. It’s a journey of your transformation. Every student has their own goals to achieve but for a recent graduate of Lawrence University – it was the opportunity to carry out research abroad.

They were part of a field trip to Jamaica under Lawrence University’s “Chandler Senior Experience,” an independent project of the student’s choosing. It could be a research project, a creative work, or even a performance. The student had the opportunity to perform research in a field that further enhanced their experience working internationally as well as networking outside of the US. “It was very reassuring to know that I have used Lawrence resources and support to help with my future,” they said.

Lawrence University

Source: Lawrence University

Research opportunities also brought Neuroscience major Moeka all the way from Japan to Winsconsin, where Lawrence University is located. “I’m running a study on the relationship between mental health and gut bacteria and Lawrence University gave me the opportunity to do research on those two fields,” she explains, mentioning how the university allows students to pursue their passions.

Around 1,500 students from 40 countries attend the private liberal arts college – they make up 15% of the student population. Here, they are guaranteed small student-faculty ratios (8:1), which gives them the chance to collaborate closely with professors. Isha, a Biochemistry and Psychology major from India, chose Lawrence University for this exact reason. She shares that the small size and abundance of research opportunities made her love her time here. The fact that her professors are approachable and nice is just the cherry on top.

Not many liberal arts colleges have a first-year requirement like Lawrence University. The “First-Year Studies” – a two-term introduction to the liberal arts and sciences – allows students to not only grapple with subjects outside of their major, but also lets them mingle with students that will soon venture into wildly different fields. They get to explore a wide range of topics, from ancient plays and graphic novels to jazz albums and the periodic table. 

“My favourite part of Freshman Studies (what the programme was previously called) was the discussion. I loved that they grouped us with 15 students that we probably would not have been paired with, all coming from different fields of music or majors in the college. It definitely allowed me to see different viewpoints and change my own mindset,” a recent Studio Art graduate says. 

That does not mean that you won’t eventually work your way towards a unique educational pathway of your own at Lawrence University. Whether you join the world-class College of Liberal Arts and Sciences or the award-winning Conservatory of Music , there will be plenty of things you can do to harness your skills and pursue your passion like study abroad at their London Centre or intern at leading companies.

Lawrence University

Source: Lawrence University

Preparing for the competitive workforce is vital to most, if not all, students – which is why New York native Taeen Jidaan chose Lawrence University. “The reason why I came to Lawrence University is because the school teaches me about leadership. For example, I am the co-president of the Student Organisation for University Programming and Lawrentians Enhancing Diversity in the Sciences,” he says. “Those two clubs taught me how to be a leader for the people. It’s basically a skill that I never learned before.”

For Vietnam-born April, what made Lawrence University stand out to her was its international student community: “I can make friends with a lot of people from all around the world and learn about other cultures.” 

Indeed, Lawrence University is the natural choice for international students. Besides being in the Top 50 list of best colleges for undergraduate teaching, the university also allows future international students of Lawrence University to chat with current international students. Being able to connect directly with these “international ambassadors” will help alleviate many concerns like funding, course structure, and student experience that may be on the applicant’s mind. 

Don’t worry about never having visited the US, Lawrence University boasts stellar student support – international students can sign up for the Friendship Family Programme. It is a volunteer programme that enhances the student experience by matching them with a local family so that they get to experience a typical American family life, learn about the culture, and participate in local traditions.

If you see a future for yourself in the liberal arts, consider applying to Lawrence University.

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