Guilford College is a private liberal arts college located in Greensboro, North Carolina. Established in 1837 by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), it is one of the oldest coeducational institutions in the United States. Guilford is known for its commitment to social justice, community engagement, and providing a well-rounded, values-driven education. The college emphasizes the Quaker values of integrity, equality, simplicity, community, and stewardship.
Key facts about Guilford College:
1. Location: Guilford College is situated in Greensboro, a thriving city in central North Carolina. The campus covers approximately 340 acres, featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture and lush green spaces, including a 240-acre wooded area with walking trails.
2. Academics: Guilford offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as several continuing education programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, and environmental studies. The college follows a unique curriculum called the Guilford Edge, which focuses on experiential learning, personalized education, and integrative studies.
3. Quaker Heritage: As a Quaker-founded institution, Guilford College emphasizes the values of integrity, equality, simplicity, community, and stewardship. These principles guide the college's approach to education, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth and social responsibility.
4. Experiential Learning: Guilford places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage in hands-on experiences, such as internships, research, study abroad, and community-based learning. The college's innovative Guilford Edge curriculum is designed to provide students with real-world experiences that complement their academic pursuits.
5. Study Abroad: Guilford encourages its students to participate in study abroad programs, offering a variety of options, including semester- or year-long exchanges, short-term programs, and faculty-led courses. The college aims to provide students with a global perspective and enhance their educational experience.
6. Campus Life: Guilford offers a vibrant campus life, with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations catering to diverse interests, including academic clubs, cultural organizations, recreational sports, and performing arts groups.
7. Athletics: Guilford College's athletic teams, known as the Quakers, compete in NCAA Division III sports as a member of the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The college offers various varsity sports for men and women, including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and tennis.
8. Admissions: Guilford has a holistic admissions process, considering factors such as high school transcripts, standardized test scores (optional), extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. The college offers both Early Action and Regular Decision application options.
9. Financial Aid: Guilford is committed to making education accessible and affordable, offering need-based financial aid packages that may include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The college also provides merit-based scholarships for exceptional students.
10. Notable Alumni: Guilford College has produced numerous accomplished alumni across various fields, including M.L. Carr (former NBA player and coach), Newt Hardie (founder of TreesUpstate), and Melissa Harris-Perry (political scientist, television host, and writer).
In summary, Guilford College is a private liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on its Quaker heritage, experiential learning, and social justice. With diverse academic offerings, a vibrant campus life, and a supportive learning environment, Guilford provides a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for success in their chosen fields and fosters a commitment to community engagement and social responsibility.
