Bates College is a private liberal arts college located in Lewiston, Maine. Established in 1855 by abolitionists, it is one of the oldest coeducational institutions in the United States. The college was founded by Oren Burbank Cheney, a Freewill Baptist minister, and named after Benjamin E. Bates, a prominent philanthropist who supported the college in its early years. Bates is known for its commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and rigorous academic programs.
Campus:
The Bates College campus spans approximately 133 acres in a residential neighborhood of Lewiston. The picturesque campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including academic facilities, residence halls, and recreational spaces. The college is also home to the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area and the Coastal Center at Shortridge, which offer additional opportunities for research, education, and recreation.
Academics:
Bates College offers a range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The curriculum emphasizes a well-rounded liberal arts education, critical thinking, and effective communication. Students can choose from over 30 majors and 40 minors, as well as interdisciplinary programs and special academic opportunities, such as study-abroad programs and internships.
Bates operates on a 4-4-1 academic calendar, with two semesters and a unique five-week "Short Term" in the spring, during which students focus on a single course, often involving off-campus or experiential learning. The college also requires students to complete a senior thesis or capstone project in their chosen field of study.
Research:
While Bates College is primarily focused on undergraduate education, research and creative projects are encouraged across disciplines. Students often collaborate with faculty on research projects, and many students engage in independent research as part of their senior thesis or capstone project. The college supports research efforts through various grants and on-campus resources, such as the Academic Resource Commons and the George and Helen Ladd Library.
Student life:
Bates College offers a vibrant campus life with over 100 student organizations, including academic and professional clubs, cultural groups, special interest groups, and club sports. The college also emphasizes community engagement and service, providing students with numerous opportunities to volunteer and contribute to local and global initiatives.
Athletics:
Bates College is a member of the NCAA Division III and participates in the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). The athletic teams, known as the Bobcats, compete in various sports, including basketball, baseball, softball, football, soccer, tennis, track and field, cross country, swimming and diving, and rowing. The college also offers club sports and intramural activities for students looking to engage in athletics on a more recreational level.
Notable alumni:
Bates College has produced many notable graduates who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some of these alumni include:
- Bryant Gumbel, television journalist and sportscaster
- Benjamin Mays, civil rights leader and mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- Elizabeth Strout, Pulitzer Prize-winning author
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., environmental activist and attorney
Bates College is a prestigious liberal arts institution known for its rigorous academic programs, commitment to social justice, and emphasis on experiential learning. The college provides students with a supportive and intellectually challenging environment that prepares them for success in their personal and professional lives.
