Smith College Top Questions

Many of the professors are amazing, but of course it's always a mixed bag. Students spend a LOT of time studying.

Academics are challenging, but not impossible. Generally, the classes are small, but there are the occasional exceptions. I'm planning on being a music major and the department is wonderful, and so are the facilities (we have a VERY impressive performing arts library with tons of scores and recordings). The professors are all very approachable and acceptable, and they want their students to succeed.

My Smith education has not only allowed me to get an engineering degree which has led me to 2 job offers my senior year, but it allowed me to take classes such as ecology, anthropology, buddhist studies, and modern dance. I have had such a rich education, I would not trade it for anything.

I believe that almost all of my professors have known my name during my years at Smith, the classes are small enough most of the time for the professors to get to know you. Students study pretty often, but are able to balance studying with a social life.

The best thing about Smith is the professors. The average Smith class is small, about 15-17 students, so professors truly take the time to get to know every one of their students. They are always available for extra help, advice, guidance, or even just a friendly chat! As a Smith student, I have a strong sense that my professors genuinely care about me and the education that I receive here at Smith. Also, no class will EVER be taught by a grad-student, which is fabulous. We really do receive the best education possible here!

Professors are interested in students' lives. They want to help us succeed! I've had amazing conversations with professors from everything to my future plans to class material to pop culture. They really are some of the smartest people you'll ever meet, and they're on campus for Smith students, not for research grants or for grad students.

My classes are small, my professors are friendly and helpful, and classes are challenging and fun to learn in. They are A LOT of work, from readings to movie showings to papers and exams, but I feel like I am really getting the education that I wouldnt've gotten elsewhere. I do not feel like I am being pushed toward a job just yet, but I am still only a first year.

Academics at Smith are SO AMAZING. The classes are usually really small and when they are big (like 50 people) they are broken down into smaller discussion groups. Discussions and lectures are always interesting and sometimes get very heated. Hearing the varying opinions of a diverse student body is really enriching. Also, teachers a very personable. They tell about their lives and their stories. They are accessible and understanding of the need for extensions. It is really easy to build a fabulous relationship with your favorite professor, or with all of your professors. Smith also makes it SO easy to LOVE what you learn. The classes are interesting and you never have difficulty finding a class to love. Also, since you don't have any requirements outside your major and one writing intensive course, you can dip your feet in any new course you'd like. It really provides an opportunity for you to make the most of an AMAZING liberal arts education.

All of my professors know my name and are very approachable. The student body is very studious and competitive and contribute a lot to the classroom.

Smith college classes and professors come in a variety of styles. Classes range from large lectures, like introductory psychology, to small seminars with only 7 to 8 students. Professors can be uninvolved and uninspiring, or friendly and welcoming, going the extra distance. From talking with classmates, most departments are a mix or good and bad, and you learn quickly which professors you like and which you don't. A Smith education can amazing or leave you wanting, depending on what you make of it. While the college has some amazing classes and professors, they are nothing with out your active involvement in the material, participation in the class, and interest. The students who get the most out of their classes are active in their major department and concerned about their future.