College of the Week: William & Mary

Tribe Pride

The College of William & Mary, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is renowned for its beautiful campus that exudes colonial charm amidst modern academic life. The campus is adorned with historic buildings like the Sir Christopher Wren Building, the oldest academic building in continuous use in the U.S., which embodies the university’s rich history. The Sunken Garden, with its vibrant flowers and iconic griffin statue, and the serene Crim Dell bridge, where students share a tradition of kissing for good luck, add to the picturesque setting. The blend of Georgian architecture with sprawling green spaces, including the College Woods, provides a tranquil environment that encourages both study and reflection, making William & Mary’s campus a living testament to its 300+ years of educational heritage.

William & Mary is celebrated for its highly ranked undergraduate programs, especially in the liberal arts, sciences, and business. The Raymond A. Mason School of Business is noted for its undergraduate business program, which blends traditional business education with innovation and ethics. The Arts & Sciences curriculum stands out for its rigorous yet broad liberal arts education, with particular strengths in history, government, and English, fostering critical thinking and global awareness. The university also offers unique programs like the School of Education and the School of Marine Science at VIMS, providing students with specialized knowledge and research opportunities. This academic excellence is supported by small class sizes, a focus on undergraduate research, and a community that values intellectual inquiry.

The student body at William & Mary embodies the “Tribe” spirit, known for its inclusivity, intellectual engagement, and community involvement. With students from all 50 states and over 60 countries, diversity is a key aspect of campus life, promoting a culture where different perspectives and backgrounds are celebrated. The vibe among students is one of collaboration and spirited participation, whether in academic pursuits or traditions like the Yule Log Ceremony or the annual King & Queen Ball. This sense of community is also evident in the enthusiastic support for William & Mary sports, particularly during football games at Zable Stadium. However, this enthusiasm extends into a culture of service, with students often engaged in community service projects, demonstrating a commitment to making a positive impact.

Life at William & Mary extends well beyond academics into a vibrant cultural and social scene. The university supports over 450 student organizations, from academic societies to cultural clubs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Events like the Charter Day celebration, which marks the founding of the college, or the Opening Convocation, which welcomes new students into the W&M community, highlight the dynamic and tradition-rich student life. The campus’s location in Williamsburg, a city known for its historical significance, offers students unique opportunities for cultural immersion, including access to Colonial Williamsburg and its living history museum, blending the past with the present in their educational journey.

In conclusion, William & Mary offers an educational experience where history, beauty, and academic excellence intersect. Its beautiful campus serves as an inspiring setting for learning and personal growth, steeped in tradition yet forward-looking. With highly ranked undergraduate programs, William & Mary equips students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a complex world. The student body, with its diverse, engaged, and service-oriented nature, creates an environment where everyone feels part of a community dedicated to both personal and communal betterment. Whether through its academic offerings, spirited traditions, or the rich cultural life of Williamsburg, William & Mary truly embodies what it means to be part of the Tribe.