Lawrence University is a private liberal arts college and conservatory of music located in Appleton, Wisconsin. Founded in 1847, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Lawrence University is known for its commitment to academic excellence, personalized education, and close-knit community, offering a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines within the liberal arts and music.
Academics:
Lawrence University comprises two main academic divisions: the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Conservatory of Music. The university offers over 40 majors and minors within these divisions, with popular majors including psychology, economics, biology, government, and music performance. Lawrence University emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and close interaction with faculty, creating an environment that supports intellectual curiosity and individual growth.
One distinctive feature of Lawrence University's curriculum is the Freshman Studies program, which is designed to introduce students to a wide range of disciplines and help them develop critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills. Students also have the opportunity to engage in independent research, internships, and study abroad programs.
Campus:
Lawrence University's campus is located in downtown Appleton, along the banks of the Fox River. The campus spans over 84 acres, featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture. Campus facilities include academic buildings, residence halls, a library, music and arts centers, athletic facilities, and various outdoor recreational spaces. The university is known for its picturesque setting and vibrant community atmosphere.
Athletics:
Lawrence University's athletic teams, known as the Vikings, compete in NCAA Division III and are members of the Midwest Conference. The university offers a variety of varsity sports, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and more. The school's colors are navy blue and white.
Traditions:
Lawrence University has several traditions that foster a sense of community and pride among students, faculty, and alumni. Some notable traditions include:
1. Freshman Welcome: A series of events and activities designed to welcome new students to the Lawrence community and help them acclimate to college life.
2. Great Midwest Trivia Contest: An annual trivia contest held on campus, featuring teams of students, faculty, alumni, and community members competing in a fun and challenging test of knowledge.
3. LUaroo: A student-organized music festival held on campus, featuring live performances by local, regional, and national musicians, as well as food and art vendors.
4. Commencement: The graduation ceremony for seniors, featuring a procession of faculty and graduates, speeches, and the conferring of degrees.
Admissions:
Lawrence University has a holistic admissions process, considering factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular activities, recommendations, and personal essays. The university offers both Early Decision and Regular Decision application options. In recent years, Lawrence University has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning that standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are not required for admission.
