Each year, Options Solutions team members visit many, many post-secondary institutions. These visits allow us to learn beyond what is readily available on the internet and in print materials. While on campus, we often meet with admission staff and Options alumni who attend the institution. We love learning about the nuance and vibe of each place and about all the hidden opportunities that exist there.
Our Options on Tour series highlights some of our recent adventures and shares them with you. We’ll feature what we saw, who we met, and what neat things/hidden nuggets we learned.
Colgate University – Hamilton, New York
Last spring, Melinda visited Colgate University. Read her highlights below.
The Basics
- Colgate University is a private liberal arts university located in Hamilton, New York, and was founded in 1819.
- Approximately 3,200 undergraduate students attend Colgate, creating a close-knit campus community.
- The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1 and emphasizes small class sizes and discussion-based learning.
- Students can participate in more than 200 clubs and organizations as well as NCAA Division I athletics.
Featured Academic Programs
Interesting Facts
- Colgate was originally established as the Baptist Education Society of the State of New York before evolving into today’s university.
- The institution was renamed after soap and toothpaste manufacturer James B. Colgate, whose family became major benefactors.
- Every first-year student climbs Colgate’s iconic 132-step hill to begin their university experience, a tradition mirrored again at graduation.
- Colgate’s campus overlooks the Chenango Valley and features many historic buildings dating back to the 19th century.
- The number 13 is everywhere at Colgate. According to university lore, the institution was founded by 13 men with 13 dollars and 13 prayers, and the number has become a beloved campus symbol and tradition.
Check out our Admissions category for all our Options on Tour posts!
