Agnes Scott College (ASC)

Agnes Scott College is a liberal arts college dedicated to fostering a "supportive community of strong women working to create change in the world." The school's unique SUMMIT curriculum offers an individualized course of study, immersion, and experiences under the guidance of a personal advisor. The program is designed "to engage [students] in the social challenges of our times while providing context for a variety of viewpoints, whether that is various global, religious, or political perspectives." Throughout their time here, all students participate in co-curricular development activities, such as Peak Week, a period in the spring where students take part in events like Global Journeys (faculty-led trips), career experiences, and SCALE, where second-years collaborate with Atlanta businesses and nonprofits. One student highlights the autonomy of the curriculum as a major reason for choosing Agnes Scott: "I have the power to create the program. That is a wonderful opportunity," adding, "I [will] leave an impact on my college." The academics here are "rigorous but rewarding," and "students are expected to work hard outside of the classroom so that class time can be spent valuably." To this end, professors "create thoughtful syllabi" and "classes are interactive and engaging because [professors] are open to different teaching styles and making sure all students can bring their own perspective into the discussion." The administration "really tries to get the student's perspective on all aspects of campus life" and is "inclusive and open to addressing problems within the student body." The college "prepares its students to face the world head-on," providing valuable leadership opportunities and "creating a living-and-learning community...[while] preparing women to be a part of the global community."

Agnes Scott "is an incredibly diverse campus of students," representing a wide range of backgrounds and viewpoints. Students value the "inclusivity created by the campus community," which actively "welcomes students of all identities" and encourages students to be "inquisitive and forward-thinking," ensuring that "there is never a Scottie that is alone here." The school is described as having "both a competitive and loving environment. Every student is so understanding and willing to cooperate with everyone else." For instance, "It is very easy to form study groups or collaborate with others on projects." Within this supportive student body, "everyone finds their group and niche on campus."

"The campus is absolutely beautiful," and "the energy and vibe here is unique. We get the experience of a large city but have the community of a close-knit town." Admittedly, "there isn't much free time because students...tend to have work study, jobs, hard classes, volunteer, extracurricular, and internships to keep them busy all week." Fortunately, the "student-led Programing Board offers weekly events," and there are "constantly events on campus put on by student clubs." One very popular event is Pancake Jam, where the night before exams, "faculty and staff serve us breakfast food so students can sing, dance, and destress." When students want a break from campus, they can "hang out in downtown Decatur since it is a quick walk from campus," and it's a "cute and a safe little town." Additionally, "the MARTA subway system is a five-minute walk, so you can [visit] almost anywhere in Atlanta." Students enjoy Atlanta's "vibrant culture...by eating at restaurants, visiting museums, attending music events, and visiting art galleries." Closer to home, the campus features numerous hammocks for students, so when the weather is nice, it's common to "see us hanging out in between classes" or enjoying a good book in them.

The Office of Internship and Career Development prepares students for a lifetime of success, providing major-to-career roadmaps, career coaches, skill-building workshops, career panels, and recruitment events. More than 400 Agnes Scott alumni participate in the school’s Summit Career Connect program which offers options like job shadowing and networking. There are “fantastic internship opportunities” available due to the proximity to Atlanta, and professors are supportive of all student career goals and “push you to go after internships, clubs, leadership positions, and jobs.” As part of a longstanding tradition, senior class members ring the campus bell and sign their names in the bell tower when they receive a job offer or acceptance into graduate school. PayScale.com reports that Agnes Scott alumni earn a median starting salary of $56,700, and 62 percent say that they derive a high level of meaning from their jobs.