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When one pictures the quintessential college experience, they no doubt see Ivy-clad walls, magnificent campuses bursting with foliage, and carefully architected student commons -- all hallmarks of Massachusetts colleges and universities. What's great is that being a student in a state that offers such a "college town" appeal is the numerous academic and lifestyle options available. Take a look ...

Cool Classes
What makes college such a fun educational experience is the flexibility you have in learning about so many different topics. In fact, many students feel the electives that they take are often the most interesting courses they complete.

Merrimack College (Andover) is among many of the  

Massachusetts state universities

  that offer unique course options. Case in point, the popular "Spirituality of Running" class, which focuses on how running has historically been understood as a spiritual experience. The class was conceived by Dr. Warren Kay, who chairs the department of religious and theological studies and coaches men's and women's cross country. "I like that it's different," says Mike Berry, a senior political science major who took the class. "It's nice to see an innovative teacher bringing more than just academics to the table."

At Bay Path College (Longmeadow), a student favorite is actually one that's required. All freshman must take a "Dynamics of Leadership" course, and are given the option to continue the certificate program for the remainder of their tenure at the school.

Amanda Babineau, a junior psychology major, says the leadership program is the main reason she chose to attend Bay Path. "I feel I'm becoming a better leader," she says. "I've taken on leadership responsibilities with my friends, family, and in my classes."

A+ Extras
Massachusetts state universities offer tons of clubs, organizations, and campus life options to help you explore your interests. The World Music Ensemble at Wheaton College (Norton, MA), for example, defines multicultural music. Combining Brazilian, Appalachian, Southern Indian music and more, this campus group paints musical pictures from a palette that s as diverse as the student body itself. Plus, its members are always learning, as they often host guest performers.

Beyond classes and clubs, there's dorm life. Merrimack is an example of colleges that boast unique student housing, including substance-free, self-governing, and community-service oriented dorms. What makes these living experiences extra special however, is that students requested the creation of such housing options. How's that for an attentive administration?

Research Massachusetts Universities
With such an array of educational offerings and campus cool at Massachusetts state universities, how can you find the best one for you? For starters, take advantage of opportunities to ask questions. "The most important thing to remember about the college interview process is that it's a two-way street," says Courtney E. Minden, associate director of undergraduate admissions at Tufts University (Boston). "While interviews have traditionally served as a way to determine if a candidate is a good fit, it's also an opportunity for a prospective student to learn more about the school."

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