Bard College at Simon's Rock, harboured amidst the stunning landscapes of Great Barrington, Massachusetts, provides a distinctive educational environment packed with unparalleled benefits for its students. It's the landmark institute to pioneer 'early college', offering students an opportunity to engage in college-level studies after completing the 10th or 11th grade. Founded in sixties and marked by cultural diversity, 400 students from multiple countries round out the population, cultivating an intellectually stimulating, globally-inclusive environment. The curriculum here, prove to be a vibrant blend of liberal arts and sciences. It provides numerous opportunities for students–particularly from India–to start their academic journey ahead of their peers, while gaining a deep, culturally-enriching perspectives of education.
Engaging from student's stand, Simon's Rock seems to be a groundbreaking choice primarily due to adaptable academic systems. It winds their traditional education clock forward. Igniting the quest for knowledge at a tender age, it not only gives students a fair understanding of their preferences but also umbrellas them with an extensive range of courses, which are not so tightly structured as in other institutions. Home to an exceptionally supportive faculty, it's often said, you don’t hide in back rows here, emphasising the focus on individualised learning. Students partaking journey in this esteemed sanctuary of knowledge, get a global exposure with an intimate, small college environment which plays a vital part in shaping their persona for a progressive future. Having the option of starting with associate's degree and moving on to bachelor's or even transferring to Bard College or other esteemed American Universities provides a stellar educational trajectory for determined Indian students.
Bard College at Simon's Rock, largely recognized as Simon's Rock, makes its home in the heart of the serenic town of Great Barrington, Massachusetts, in the United States. Known for its residential liberal arts curriculum, it spans four long years of extensive academics. In point of fact, Simon's Rock is an integral part of Bard College, founded in Anndale-on-Hudson, New York, in the year 1860, merely a stone's throw away.
Offering a unique learning experience, the college basks in its liberal curriculum. Undergraduate students can explore, innovate and challenge themselves across diverse areas of study, ranging from humanities to computer science. Achieving small class sizes, Simon's Rock sustains a student-faculty ratio of 6:1 so that every young mind receives undivided mentorship from distinguished faculty. It is notable, that Simon's Rock is renowned nationwide for its early college entrance program that encourages bright students to start college after the 10th or 11th grade.
At the student level, the diverse and inclusive environment of the college cultivates a global perspective. For students hailing from various backgrounds, Simon's Rock extends a welcoming arm fostering meaningful interactions and bonding over shared experiences. The participation of international students plays a pivotal role in the multicultural fabric of Simon's Rock culture. A substantial number of students at Simon’s Rock, comes from India, bringing with them a diverse range of perspectives that effectively contribute to an enriching learning environment.
In terms of financial aid, Simon’s Rock is committed to making education accessible for all students. The college generously offers a range of scholarships, designed to ease the financial burden off the shoulders of international students. These scholarships are awarded largely on the basis of financial need and academic prowess and can be a source of significant financial relief for aspirant Indian students planning to embark upon their academic journey in the USA. With education at their core, Simon’s Rock is truly committed to breaking barriers to global education.
No photos found for this university.
In the vibrant sixties, when the world was undergoing a metamorphosis of ideas and ideologies, a visionary named Elizabeth Blodgett Hall founded 'Simon's Rock'. Elizabeth, a champion of education, realized that the conventional academic system was not effectively meeting the needs of many students. She believed that a large number of teenagers were more than capable of tackling college-level studies much before the system deemed them ready. The proof was her extensive experience as a private girls' school headmistress at Concord Academy. Now, are you wondering why she named it 'Simon's Rock'? It was simply because she was venturing into the unknown and was uncertain whether this educational institution would ultimately become a high school, a college, or something unprecedented.
The year was 1964, the official commencement of Simon's Rock on the scenic Great Pine Farm, owned by Elizabeth's family. The first buildings to rise from the fertile soil of the farm were the college centre, library, classroom buildings, and three dormitories: Crosby, Dolliver, and Kendrick that would later primarily house freshmen. Adding a touch of heritage, some of the farm's buildings, like Hall's own home, blended seamlessly into the college campus. Striding through all these changes, Elizabeth wore the hat of the college's first president.
Two years later, the doors of Simon's Rock opened to the first batch of all-female students. Initially, these pioneers underwent a four-year program receiving an associate's degree, unlike the current system where an associate degree is awarded typically after two years, followed by a bachelor's degree after four years of study. In 1970, Simon's Rock blossomed into a coeducational institution, marking a defining moment in the college's journey.
However, the leadership baton had to be passed on. Elizabeth retired after students organized a vote of no confidence in 1972. Following her was Baird W Whitlock, who, despite his brief presidency until 1977, made significant contributions. Whitlock spearheaded pivotal changes, including streamlining the associate's program into a spartan two-year journey and introducing the bachelor's degree program, which received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges in 1974.
The next president, Samuel McGill, held office from 1977 to 1979. His tenure was marked by an exciting event. Bard College, in a move to uplift Simon's Rock from a challenging financial situation, acquired it. It was a swift process taking only a month, and potential associations with prestigious institutions such as Boston University and Yale University were on the table. The merger meant that Leon Botstein, Bard's president, became the ex officio president of Simon's Rock, and interestingly he holds both offices today.
In 1981, courtesy of generous donations, Simon's Rock expanded its resources by acquiring the 75-acre Upper Campus. This addition was a former seminary uphill from the original campus and included a gymnasium and chapel, among other residential facilities. By 1989, an arts and humanities building had sprouted across Alford Road, keeping company with the college's other art buildings. The same year, the student union humbly stationed itself in the lower part of the dining hall.
1992 was a bittersweet year for Simon's Rock. Tragedy struck when a student, Wayne Lo, staged a mass shooting, leading to the loss of student Galen Gibson and Professor Ñacuñán Saez. However, Simon's Rock emerged stronger than before, bolstering its resolve to provide a nurturing educational environment.
Exuding resilience, Simon's Rock continued its journey. Over the years, the institution saw several additions and renovations to its infrastructure. Some notable additions include the Fisher Science and Academic Center (1998), the Kilpatrick Athletic Center (1999), the Daniel Arts Center (2005), and the Livingston Hall Student Union (2006). Meanwhile, renovations were made to existing structures such as the chapel and the arts buildings.
Simon's Rock once again etched its name in history in 2000. It became the first college in the United States to officially recognize International Workers' Day. In 2001, it played a crucial role in founding the Bard High School Early College (BHSEC) in Manhattan. Now, there are seven Bard Early College programs that are a testament to Simon's Rock's pioneering spirit and commitment to education. The journey came a full circle in 2015, when Simon's Rock founded Bard Academy, a two-year high school program leading into the Lower College program.
Through trials and tribulations, Simon's Rock continues to hold the beacon of unconventional and avant-garde education, encouraging Indian parents and students to explore this epitome of academic and cultural decadence.
No graduates found for this university.
International students whose first language isn't english need to submit their scores from english language proficiency tests like the toefl, ielts or duolingo; the college takes your proficiency quite seriously!
The student-to-faculty ratio at bard college at simon's rock is an impressive 8:1. this ensures individual attention and fosters productive student-faculty engagement.
Safety comes first and foremost at bard college at simon's rock. they've a dedicated public safety department functioning 24/7. what's more, the small college community fosters a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
Bard college makes applying a breeze, as they accept applications through the common application or the school's own simon's rock application. supplemental documents are also a part of the process.
Bard college at simon's rock, stepping out of the normal, offers personalized educational pathways where one can start earning college credits even in high school. the challenging curriculum aims at stirring your thought process and prepares you for future academic challenges.
The one-of-a-kind aspect of bard college at simon's rock is its dedication to 'early college.' this means, high school students start college two years earlier than traditional students. this unique approach creates a nurturing and academically rigorous environment that helps international students thrive.
Student testimonials consistently highlight the college's fostering of academic curiosity, the friendly nature of the community, and the profound impact of early college on their personal and academic growth.
Absolutely! bard college at simon's rock extends several student support services, including guidance on visas, counseling for adjusting to college life, and assistance with academic planning.
Yes, they do! bard college at simon's rock does recognize advanced placement (ap) or international baccalaureate (ib) credits, bringing down the load on your shoulders a tad.
Bard college has your back with its housing! the college offers several on-campus residence halls equipped with all the essentials, ensuring a comfortable stay.
No shortage of fun at bard college! the campus boasts a lively array of clubs and activities, spanning academics, arts, sports, and even community service.
Bard college, squeezing every bit of the world into its campus, comprises a student community from over 40 different countries. thus, international students get the benefits of a diverse and worldwide perspective.
Yes, indeed! bard college at simon's rock offers numerous internship opportunities that give you a head start in your career and strengthen your academic profile, adding more feathers to your cap.
Yes, certainly! bard college at simon's rock offers a range of scholarships and financial aid packages to international students. these aids, based on both need and merit, provide a helping hand in managing educational expenses.
Being a liberal arts college, bard college at simon's rock offers a wide spectrum of majors encompassing arts, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, physical and biological sciences.
What is incarnate university?
Hi. I want to connect with Indian students in Penryn campus. Please help me to connect. I will travel to penryn in September to start my undergrad course.