Admission Chat Transcript 11-01-2007 for  Room 2
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MHCEmma	Hi Sarah
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MHCSabahat	Hi Room 2!
MHCSarah	Hi Miss Emma
MHCSmstanto	Hi everyone!
MHCEmma	Hi :D
MHCSarah	Ladies, people tend to bleed over into room 2 after a little while...stay tuned!
MHCEmma	Yes M'am
MHCSabahat	Yay! ::biggrin
MHCEmma	:)
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MHCSabahat	Enjoying your food guys?
MHCSmstanto	Yes, it's quite good!
MHCEmma	too busy enjoying it to type!!
MHCSabahat	haha
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MHCSabahat	I'm waiting for the bleeding of prospies
MHCShannon	Haha, me too!
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MHCSabahat	Hi Sheila!
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MHCShannon	We're so unpopular.
MHCEmma	i know right?!
MHCSabahat	seriously..
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MHCEmma	Hi Faithie!
MHCEmma	welcome!
MHCSabahat	Good evening :)
Faithie	Hi
MHCShannon	Hi!
MHCShannon	How are you doing?
Faithie	Good. How is everyone?
MHCEmma	Good. Thank you!
MHCShannon	I'm good, thank you!
MHCEmma	Any questions for us :)
MHCSabahat	We're good thank you :)
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MHCSabahat	Hi!
MHCSabahat	Welcome to caht room 2
MHCShannon	If you have any questions for us, please feel free to ask and ALL of them! ::smile
MHCSabahat	chat*
MHCEmma	Hi !
MHCShannon	Hi!
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MHCShannon	Any and all questions I mean*
MHCShannon	bad typing on my part!
MHCSabahat	Hello mtholyoke and ltheurer
MHCSabahat	How are you guys?
ltheurer	i was wondering what your reasons for choosing mount holyoke were
ltheurer	if that isnt too personal a question
MHCSabahat	Well I am a biology major and the science facilities here are outstanding, with a recent 34 million dollar renovation to the science building
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MHCEmma	Apart from the strong academics and the beautiful campus, it was the sense of community that swayed me. and frankly that's what has kept me here
MHCSabahat	oh no not at all :)
MHCShannon	Not at all. I chose Mt. Holyoke for the fact that I found it to be a wonderful atmosphere for learning. I was extremely impressed with the Biology department here.
MHCShannon	I was also really impressed with the English department, and all the faculty members that I met.
MHCSabahat	Also, the international population here is one of the largest in the nation for a college campus
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ltheurer	also, did you have any initial reservations about the all-female campus?
MHCShannon	Not to mention, the students are and were friendly, supportive, and helpful.
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MHCSabahat	Hello Liz!
MHCEmma	I didn't mind; I came irrespective of the all-female campus. but I have come to appreciate the all-female campus with time.
MHCEmma	It helps you build up a unique sense of confidence
MHCShannon	I didn't set up thinking that I'd attend a women's college, no. But, when I was strongly considerly Mount Holyoke I just really concentrated on the fact that I would be receiving a one of a kind education, and that I would be known by my name, not a number by my professors.
MHCSabahat	I would agree - I did not know what to expect in an all-female environment, but i have come to appreciate it
Faithie	I would like to study foriegn languages...can any of you provide information about MHC 's foriegn languages?
MHCShannon	That sealed the deal for me. I tell prospective students that are interested in college, but having a few reservations about going to a women's college.
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MHCSabahat	Mount Holyoke offers numerous languages
MHCSabahat	they are actually a requirement here
MHCEmma	welcome ngumkowski!
MHCSabahat	and UMass also offers many more through the 5 college consortium
MHCShannon	Hi ngumkowski!
ngumkowski	Hi, I'm Nina
MHCSabahat	hi nina!
MHCEmma	Hi Nina!
MHCShannon	I believe there are about 33 foreign languages offered in the 5 college area.
ltheurer	does anyone know anything about the russian classes?
MHCShannon	There are 12 here on campus.
MHCShannon	So it's pretty extensive.
MHCSarah	what language are you interested in studying?
ngumkowski	In the other roomthey were talking about getting a 5 college certificate, can anyone tell me more about why that is offered in some cases?
MHCSabahat	yes
Faithie	As many as I can! lol. But I am especially interested in Sapnish, French, and Japanese.
MHCSarah	russian classes are amazing. they are very student-learning based
MHCSabahat	i am actually doing the culture,health and science certificate as my minor
MHCShannon	The Spanish, French, and Japanese departments are very strong here.
MHCSabahat	this is because it combines so many of my interests
MHCShannon	I was took French and Spanish here, and liked my classes.
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MHCShannon	I've had friends that have taken Japanese and have like those classes as well.
MHCSarah	you can link to the languages webite at www.mtholyoke.edu to find out more specifics and examples of classes under "academics" and then under "majors and minors"
Faithie	Is it easy to take more than one foriegn language at MHC?
Faithie	Ok! Thank you!
MHCSabahat	many of the classes i am taking are in different subject areas, and instead of seeming like they are random choices, they are actually classes all realted to each other in some way, that fall under this "culture, health and science" title
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mtholyoke	When I visited the campus, I was surprised to see students living in basements. Is that going to continue after the new dorm is built? When will the new dorm be done?
MHCShannon	It is, in fact, a good number of students do. Especially International Relations students, and students that major in Romance Languages and literatures.
MHCSarah	many students will take more than one foreign language, particularly if they are also interested in international relations
Faithie	Awesome! And I heard that you can have a self-made major at MHC.
ngumkowski	When I visited I did not see basement rooms .... I would also like to know if that is a possibility next year?
MHCShannon	Yes, you can self design a major here. Were thinking about doing that?
MHCSarah	mtholyoke, there are some student who live in the lower level of residence halls and have a really awesome experience. the rooms can be very similar to the rooms on other levesl
MHCSabahat	Definitely! If one subject area does not apply to all your interests, you can self-design a major and title it so that it incorporates your concentration and focus
MHCSabahat	Not only that, you can also self-design a minor
MHCSarah	have any of our students lived in the basement level?
MHCEmma	no I haven't
MHCEmma	but I have friends who are and it's carpeted and all, you wouldn't even know it was a basement.
MHCEmma	and the heating there is extremely good too!
MHCShannon	I haven't. But I have had friends that have lived in basement rooms, and have enjoyed them.
MHCSabahat	A friend of mine actually lived in the basement last year - It was 6 juniors on that floor, and we would all always hang out with each other
Faithie	Yeah..because I really want to try and double major in Linguistics and Foriegn language, but I am also in love with History and Drama.
ngumkowski	I am excited about possibly self designing a minor that has som buisness classes in it from the other colleges
MHCSabahat	the rooms are very similar to those in the rest of the hall
MHCSabahat	sometimes they even tend to be bigger since there is more space down there@
MHCShannon	Well, there is certainly a way to comprise your interests and to make them into a major that suites your interests.
MHCShannon	I know that UMass offers good business courses, since MHC does not have a business class segment.
MHCSarah	and, mtholyoke, the new residence hall should be ready next year
MHCShannon	But credits will transfer, and you would be set up with an advisor who would help you plan out how to make this major sound.
ngumkowski	Thanks Shannon, that is great to know ... I will look at thier catalog too
MHCShannon	Yes, definitely check out the five college catalogue. It's available online. During the academic year there are about 6,000 courses offered through the 5 colleges.
ngumkowski	I heard other girls say that it is easy to take classes at the other schools, I am looking forward to that experience too.
MHCShannon	Yes a lot of MHC students like taking classes off campus. It's a good experience.
MHCSabahat	Professors at other colleges usually assign a certain number of spots for 5 college students, so showing your interest is key!
MHCSarah	it IS easy to take courses at other colleges, and there's a bus that runs to the other colleges, too, so that there's always transportation
ngumkowski	Great tip Sabahat, thanks so much!
MHCSabahat	I am actually taking only one class at MHC this semester.. and 2 off campus!
ngumkowski	is it easy to find the 5 college catalog on line in the MHC web site, I will look for it later
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MHCEmma	you can access that catalogue here: http://www.fivecolleges.edu/sites/courses/
MHCSarah	hello ellen!
MHCSabahat	Here you go: www.fivecolleges.edu/sites/courses
MHCSarah	welcome to the chat!
MHCEmma	welcome Ellen!
MHCShannon	Hi Ellen!
MHCSabahat	Hello Ellen
ellen	Hi!
ngumkowski	Thaks so much Emma and Sabahat! do you usually wait until soph year to start taking classes at the other colleges
MHCShannon	How are you doing?
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MHCSabahat	Nope.. Students can begin taking classes their 2nd semester here
MHCShannon	You can start taking classes off campus the second semester of your first year.
MHCSarah	you can start taking classes as soon as the second semester of your first year
MHCEmma	welcome kalsang:D
MHCSabahat	but of course everyone starts at a different time
MHCShannon	They want you to become acclimated to the MHC campus first.
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mhckalsang	Thank you, I am glad to join you ladies
MHCShannon	Hi Kelsey!
MHCSabahat	we are glad to have you :)
mhckelsey	hey
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MHCSarah	ellen, do you have any questions for admission directors or students>
MHCSarah	?
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MHCShannon	I'd be happy to answer any more questions any of you have.
Faithie	How many classes do you typically take a semester?
MHCShannon	Usually 4
MHCShannon	That's 16 credits in total
MHCShannon	4 credits per class.
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MHCSabahat	you have to take at least 3 to be onsidered a full-time student
MHCSabahat	considered*
MHCShannon	You can take as much as 5 courses, but past 20 credits, you have to get special permission.
MHCShannon	You can take 5 courses starting your second semester.
ngumkowski	are all classes 4 credits?
MHCShannon	Yes
Faithie	And how many credits do u need in all?
MHCSabahat	Well some can be 2 credits also
MHCShannon	The only class that will differ as far as credits go is PE
ngumkowski	even lab courses in the sciences?
Faithie	to graduate?
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MHCSarah	not all classes are 4 credits some are fewer...like 1 and 2
MHCSabahat	if they meet for shorter times
MHCSarah	you need 128 to graduate
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MHCSabahat	Hello icebar!
MHCShannon	Hi Icebar!
MHCSarah	lab courses in the sciences are generally 4 credits
MHCShannon	The 1 to 2 credit courses, some of those classes are offered during January Term, or J Term
MHCSabahat	yes, even science classes with labs are 4 credits each
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MHCSarah	hello kirsten
MHCSabahat	The exception are languages, which can range from 4-8 credits, depending on their level of intensity
MHCShannon	where students have the chance to come back a bit early before the spring semester, to take extra classes if they want to
ngumkowski	Can you talk more about any expereince that you have had with J term, it sounds interesting
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MHCShannon	The languages in Asian studies generally are about 6 credits per class.
MHCShannon	J Term is a great opportunity.
MHCSabahat	My first year here I stayed on campus for Jterm to do an internship with a child study center
MHCShannon	It starts shortly after New Years. And it goes on for a month or so.
MHCShannon	During that time students will be on campus working on research projects, their theses, taking class, Teaching classes!, etc.
ngumkowski	when does second semester typically start and end
MHCSabahat	End of January-Mid May
MHCSarah	what other things are you wondering about, prospectives?
MHCSabahat	Hi Kirsten, Do you have any questions for students or Admission directors?
ngumkowski	does anyone in the chat room work on campus during the semester?
MHCSabahat	We all do!
MHCShannon	Faithie, are there any more questions you'd like to ask?
MHCShannon	Yes!
MHCSarah	yes, ngumkowski, all of the students in this chat room work for the admission office during the semester
MHCSabahat	We all work at the Admission Office, some of us are tour guides, and some of us are interviewers
ngumkowski	What is a good balance of work hours/academic credits for a freshman?
MHCShannon	I would say that 16 credits for a first year
MHCShannon	And typically the work hours are 10 and under.
MHCSarah	every student is different, though. sometimes it's a good idea to experiement in high school with how much work is comfortable for you
kirsten	Hi. I was wondering, when should I schedule an interview?
MHCSarah	and to become aware of what feels like too much
MHCSarah	kristen, will you be coming to campus?
ngumkowski	OK. I work after school now and on weekends, but I expect that college courses will be more difficult and time consuming
kirsten	Yes, I live about an hour away.
MHCSarah	oh, great! when would you like to interview? in the next few months?
MHCShannon	Once you would get on campus and sat in your classes you would get a good feel for what you are comfortable with. From that, you can decide if you'd like to have a side job, and how much you'd want to work during the week.
ellen	what are the people like who participate in the Equestrian programs?
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MHCShannon	They are all really nice girls!
mhckelsey	the equestrian team is a really tight nit group
MHCSabahat	They are at the barn a lot!
MHCShannon	They spend a lot of time at the barn. If you've been to Mount Holyoke, maybe you've seen it.
mhckelsey	some bring their horses, others ride the school's ones
MHCShannon	If not, if you visit you should go look. It's a wonderful building.
ellen	oh yes, the barn is beautiful!1
mhckelsey	they really care about the animals and are serious about their sport
mhckelsey	they walk all over campus in their riding outfits together!
MHCShannon	They have a GREAT hunt seat team.
MHCShannon	So they work very hard.
kirsten	Yes, as soon as possible. What happens on an interview? How should I prepare?
MHCSabahat	Well the interview isconducted by a senior student at MHC
MHCSarah	kirsten, you should call the office at 413-538-2023 to schedule an interview
mhckelsey	i think they have a lot of community spirit because they compete together and tend to do a lot outside of the barns together too like eating and walking up to the barns (that takes a bit of time but it's a beautiful walk)
MHCSarah	call soon so that you can have your pick of times
MHCSabahat	And it is more like a conversation rather than a set of questions
Faithie	I would really like to visit campus, but I live a little ways away and don't have the financial means at the moment....
MHCShannon	Ellen, is there anything else about the riding program here that you'd want to know about?
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ngumkowski	Kristen, I went to shadow day and interviewed, It was very low key and comfortable.
MHCSabahat	thank you Nina!
MHCSarah	the interview is meant to be a converation. it's good to prepare by thinking about your expereinces in high school and what they've meant to you
MHCSarah	*conversation
ellen	when I visited during the summer the model dorm room was very nice, are all dorm rooms that wonderful?
mhckelsey	Faithie-you're getting a lot of the mhc experience right here in this chat room :) and be sure to take the virtual tour online
MHCShannon	Faithie, have you had an MHC counselor come to your school?
MHCSarah	it's not meant to be strictly evaluative. and bring questions for your interviewers!
MHCSabahat	And don't be nervous :)
mhckelsey	ellen-the dorm rooms are hard to characterize for they all have their own uniqueness but each res. hall has its perk such as window seats or old fireplaces, walk-in closets, proximity to food etc.
kirsten	That's nice to know, as I haven't done one yet and was wondering. Thanks.
mhckelsey	you can find something nice about each dorm
mhckelsey	and room and they are really great about accomodating you if you're not satisfied
ellen	what do not like Mount Holyoke?
MHCSabahat	No problem, and make sure to call the Admission office soon if you'd like to schedule one!
mhckelsey	the res. life. team is really helpful for room change requests and such if you find yourself having roommate difficulties or whatnot
MHCSarah	yes, faithie, please do take the virtual tour and check out "MY POV" in the MHC website
Faithie	no...MHC came to schools like 2 and half hours away from me I believe
mhckelsey	the only thing i don't like about MHC is that my family can't be here with me! i'm a homebody but this is the best home away from home for me and i'm serious about that as cheesy as it sounds
MHCShannon	Oh okay, well, like Sarah and Kelsey said--check out the virtual tour of Mount Holyoke, and my Point of view on the main mount Holyoke webpage.
MHCShannon	It gives really great insight to the campus. Also, have you received a viewbook?
mhckelsey	its cold once and a while but i love four seasons so that's not even all that bad
MHCSarah	and you can always come and visit in the spring if your situation is different or you're able to save a bit of cash
mhckelsey	the only points of frustration people have here are when there is just too much to do and no time to do it all in-we only get four years here and we're so spoiled with all the opportunities and activities available to us
MHCSarah	there are admitted student programs in the spring
MHCShannon	The only part that I would say I don't like about Mount Holyoke is similar to what Kelsey said--I miss home sometimes. But Mount Holyoke has become a home away from home, and I love my friends here!
MHCEmma	Ellen: MHC is so diverse that I can't run away from having difficult conversations. That can be tough sometimes but it's also very maturing because it has forced me to face issues that need to be dealt with.
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Faithie	I have recieved a viewbook...that sparked my interest in mHC.
MHCSarah	excellent faithie! any other questions??
ngumkowski	i think it was the Princeton review that said that MHC has more to do on campus then in the town. Does that bother anyone of you ... that there is not much to do in town?
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MHCSabahat	Well I am an international student, and I usually don't feel homesick, but after 3 years here I am starting to feel the need to go back home soon! And I will be during winter break :D
MHCShannon	Good, do you have any other questions about MHC? The majors? Activities? Organizations? Social Life? 5 college area?
Faithie	not if there is a lot to do on campus!
MHCSabahat	Hey Alison!
MHCShannon	Hi Alison!
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MHCSabahat	I don't agree that there is not much to do in the town
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MHCSabahat	the 5 colleges offer so many options each weeknight and weekday
MHCEmma	No Nina, I like the fact that the campus is so vibrant that I don't have to get off to do much. But when I do need to go, it's all a bus ride away!
alison	Hey. I have a question. I like the idea of an all women's college in the classroom but not so much socially. What's social life like in that respect?
MHCSabahat	with so many concerts, lectures, speakers, plays.. You name it!
MHCEmma	*only not all
MHCSarah	and there's tons to do in the five college consortium -- from concerts to dinners out, to parties and acapella shows
MHCSabahat	I have never felt like i haven't had much to do here.. Every week is something new and exciting
MHCShannon	Social life here a good mixture, and it's also what you want to make of it. We have plenty of activities here on campus.
MHCShannon	We have something called Something Every Friday.
MHCShannon	There are always parties, documentaries, concerts, etc. going on.
MHCShannon	There are always social gatherings in dorm common rooms.
MHCSarah	and if you're concerned about meeting guys, you can! we have four other colleges in the consortium!
MHCShannon	There is ice skating in the winter!
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ngumkowski	How did you keep from being lonely and homesick during Freshman year
MHCShannon	And as far as meeting guys, they are only a bus ride away!
MHCSarah	but there are so many advantages to being at a women's college
MHCSabahat	And you will see the male population!
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MHCShannon	And not to mention, we're a college full of women--they know we're here!
MHCShannon	Trust me!
MHCShannon	And they come here a lot.
MHCSabahat	Parties, Restaurants, Events on campus
MHCShannon	They'll be in your classes
MHCShannon	They'll be at the parties and social gatherings.
mhckelsey	i dealt with the homesick thing by calling on the phone a lot and going home for the major breaks also finding a close group of friends that became like family taht you eat dinner with every night and go over your days is nice
MHCEmma	Nina: I remember making a concious effort to get to know the other firsties... in a sense they were my new family. I made great friends that I have kept since then
MHCSabahat	You can meet boys on the bus!
mhckelsey	we do get to know the boys in the five colleges!
ngumkowski	you are funny Sabahat
MHCSabahat	Hehe.. why thank you :)
MHCShannon	Too funny.
MHCShannon	But it's all true.
mhckelsey	they're fun to have around when you want them but its nice coming back home to campus and feeling relieved thart you can sleep and study there
mhckelsey	without the boys around
MHCShannon	You'll meet boys everyone you go in this area.
mhckelsey	you can do laundry in the basements safely and go down to breakfast in PJs and feel comfortable without boys around too
MHCSabahat	The campus is very safe and comforatable.. As kelsey said before.. It's a home away from home
mhckalsang	I agree with kelsey..
alison	Ok I have another question. How much work do you have? Is there a lot or is it manageable?
mhckelsey	its manageable especially if you delve into it and are interested in what you're working on
MHCShannon	The work load is manageable, but you will work hard.
MHCShannon	As long as you have good time management, you will be fine.
ngumkowski	are there any courses you would not have taken if you knew what you know now?
MHCSabahat	it is alot.. But not impossible.. It is manageble - time organization is important!
mhckalsang	MHC is a challenging but not cut throat.
MHCShannon	It's not impossible to do the work here. But being challenged is a great thing. It pushes you to do great work. And we know that all the women that are accepted into this college are more than capable of meeting that standard and going above and beyond it.
MHCSarah	yes, we are an academically rigorous institution, but our students are also extremely interested in being involved in the community and exploring the world...they are not ALWYS in the library!!
mhckelsey	each night we're up late but we choose to be so that we can be involved in other aspects of the college like social life etc. each woman finds her own space and time and how to balance the academic and social realm here and each is valued for her choices-we dont look down upon people who are going
MHCSabahat	And college is a step-up from high school, so the work load will be as well
mhckelsey	very true
MHCShannon	But we already have a good idea that you are wonderful students.
mhckelsey	you're just not in class from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day
MHCShannon	So we know that you'll excel here.
mhckalsang	All the profs are available to help you through anything. Its great not have to compete for their time and attention. I think knowing your profs, makes your work more enjoyable and rewarding
MHCShannon	Taking advantage of office hours is a great resource for students.
mhckelsey	we have a japanese tea ceremony every tuesday night in the japanese garden to destress!
alison	Thank you guys so much!
Faithie	Awesome!
Faithie	lol
mhckelsey	and all kinds of accessible people to support you in the Speaking Arguing and Writing peer tutoring center as well as the counseling center and other departmental liasons etc.
MHCShannon	You're welcome!
mhckalsang	We also offer Yoga to relax and just walking around the campus is soooo peaceful
mhckelsey	yes
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mhckelsey	so people here are pretty well balanced, working hard but comfortable doing so and still maintaining their sanity :)
ngumkowski	I agree, I was so impressed with the campus, expecially the ampitheater.I can just imagine myself sitting there
mhckelsey	aww yeah its pretty cool
mhckelsey	if you can take the tour and imagine yourself here then you are already in a great place, knowing you could fit in here.
MHCSabahat	Yes we have picnics there in the fall and spring - it's so beautiful to see everyone out there together as a community
mhckelsey	that's what helps with the admissions decision so much-just that feeling of seeing yourself there
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MHCShannon	Any more questions?
MHCShannon	Please ask away!
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mhckalsang	Our campus is great, everything fits, the nature, buildings, people..Everything. Its great
mhckelsey	MHC women are curious
ngumkowski	any courses you would avoid?
MHCSabahat	Not that I can think of
Faithie	Financial aid! What type of financial Aid is offered to students?
MHCShannon	Well, I can certainly recommend courses to you!
mhckelsey	one's that you don't have a keen interest in because to me its more rewarding being in a class that you have an interest in
MHCSabahat	But everyone is interested in different knowledge areas
mhckelsey	but with that said
MHCShannon	But I can't think off the top of my head what courses I'd say to avoid. per say.
ngumkowski	ok, yeah, what can you recommend
mhckalsang	No its hard to say which one should avoid. Your classes completely depend on your interest, learning style etc.
mhckelsey	the distribution requirements can be a great way to explore your interests across the board
MHCSarah	students are offered several types of financial aid
MHCShannon	All of my classes have been great.
MHCShannon	What are you interested in?
MHCShannon	From there I can recommend some courses.
MHCSarah	they are scholarships (need based and merit) loans, grants, and scholarships
mhckalsang	Intro to World Politics with Vinnie ferraro
MHCSabahat	I loved Ancient greece and Rome my first year - it's a history course and I wasn't even too keen on history initially, until taking that course
MHCSarah	we meet 100% of demonstrated need
ngumkowski	I am interested in marketing but will probably major in psychology at MHC. I like the sciences, english, music
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mhckelsey	Critical Social Thought-you wont know what its about until you get into it but its unique to MHC and really engaging/thought provoking, the quintessential college course of deeper thinking and questioning societal norms and constructions
MHCSarah	and you can email the student financial services office at sfs@mtholyoke.edu
MHCShannon	Well, I'm an English major
MHCShannon	But I came in as a Biochem major
MHCShannon	So I know a few things about both departments
MHCShannon	English classes range from first year seminars to senior seminars
MHCSabahat	i am a biology major and anthropoloy/culture,health,science minor
Faithie	thank u
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MHCShannon	In subjects such as Mulitcultural Families and Ties to Jane Austen Fiction and Film
MHCShannon	There are also writing courses such as Intro to Journalism, Creative Writing, Short Story, and Playwriting.
MHCShannon	There are the classes like Chaucer, Milton, and Shakespeare.
MHCShannon	So it's all over the board.
ngumkowski	that's funny, my AP Eng teacher is a Jane Austen fanatic. That course sounds good. I will check out all of these.
MHCShannon	Yeah,. it was a good course.
MHCShannon	It's taught by John Lemly.
MHCShannon	He's a great professor.
MHCSarah	and you will take something that perhaps you dont expect to like, but then you'll LOVE it!
MHCSabahat	Yes, Sarah!
MHCShannon	I also like to recommend to first years to take Western Civilizations--the Great Books
MHCShannon	It's taught by Jim Hartley
MHCShannon	in the Economics department
MHCSabahat	I took anthropology as a distribution requirement my sophomore year. I fell in love with it and decided to minor in it
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MHCShannon	It's a great course, they survey and read so many classic books.
MHCShannon	And it's a class designed just for first year students
MHCSarah	Hello Sheila!
MHCShannon	Hi Sheila!
MHCShannon	Do you have any questions?
Faithie	Oh and study abroad opportunities?
MHCEmma	welcome Sheila
MHCShannon	There are a lot of study abroad opportunities.
MHCShannon	A good number of us will go abroad at some point in our four years here.
MHCSarah	is there a particular place that you're interested in going?
MHCSabahat	We have numerous opportunites, students typically go aborad for a year or semester their junior year
MHCSarah	about 40% of the junior class will study abroad
MHCShannon	We have programs in South Africa, Senegal, Japan, China, Korea, England, France, and Spain, just to name a few.
Faithie	Japan!
MHCSarah	many students will choose to study in an Asian country
MHCShannon	Yes, we have programs in Japan. We have summer internship opportunities in Japan as well.
MHCSabahat	Some programs require acertain years of languages specific to that country, for example our study abroad program in montpelier, France requires French
MHCSabahat	And that is only the list of programs affiliated with the college, but you can also choose to study abroad in a program of your own choice
ngumkowski	I have to go to an appointment. Thanks so much ladies! Hope to see you next year!
MHCShannon	We actually have an alum that helps run the study abroad program in Montpellier
MHCSabahat	Thank you for chatting with us.. Bye!
MHCShannon	So a lot of French students like going there.
MHCShannon	Bye!
Faithie	Is the cost of studying abroad = to tutition?
Faithie	bye!
MHCShannon	It varies from program to program
MHCShannon	You can apply for the Laurel Fellowship to go abroad
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MHCShannon	That is the equivalent to the regular financial aid package to Mount Holyoke
SheilaMWebb	How would you compare Mt. Holyoke to the other women's colleges, Bryn Mawr, Smith, etc.?
Faithie	oh
MHCShannon	Usually about 90 percent of people that apply for the fellowship will get some form of aid to go abroad with
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MHCSabahat	Faithie, this link may be helpful: www.mtholyoke.edu/acad/programs/global/sa/finaid.html
Faithie	ok!
Faithie	thank you
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mhckelsey	in terms of comparison of MHC to other women's colleges I can let you know that I visited most all of them just two years ago and found them each to be strong in terms of women's empowerment, equal academic rigor in each college, and yet they each had their own appeal and thing that set them apart f
MHCShannon	You're welcome, do you have any more questions?
MHCSabahat	You're welcome :)
mhckelsey	they all have amazing traditions, strong alumnae connections, great professor student relations, and incredible opportunities
mhckelsey	However!!! I chose MHC because of the feeling i got when i arrived on campus-i felt totally welcomed and valued here even as a prospective student which is unusual
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MHCSabahat	Welcome back, Sheila!
mhckelsey	people opened doors, listened attentively to each woman's comment in class, were equally interested in your summer job or internship instead of merely comparing you to themselves
MHCSarah	yes, it's important to visit if you're able to really try to differentiate for yourself
mhckelsey	it was a supportive place and still is where i have already formed lifelong friendships
mhckelsey	MHC overall embodied the type of community that I wanted in a college
MHCShannon	Sheila, did you have any questions?
MHCSabahat	Or Ellen?
mhckelsey	the campuses of women's colleges are also incredible-old fashioned, gothic architecture, castle buildings, and well kept grounds, always clean-we're women so its assumed lol we can even eat in our library because they figure we're not slobs
MHCSarah	yes, this is true. the facilities are very well maintained. especially the residence halls
MHCSabahat	The residence halls feel very home-y with their comfortable environment, sense of community, activities, open doors
mhckelsey	and completely safe too
Faithie	Does MHC take dual enrollment college credit?
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MHCSarah	yes, MHC does "take" dual enrollement credit
MHCSarah	we like that you've challenged yourself
MHCSarah	where do you go to school/live faithie?
Faithie	I live in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina
Faithie	Roanoke rapids High school
Faithie	lol
MHCSarah	oh, excellent!
MHCSarah	are you looking at many colleges in the northeast?
Faithie	um...some...but MHC really stood out to me
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MHCSabahat	Does anyone else have any questions?
MHCSabahat	Hi TJ!
MHCSarah	excellent! do you have any questions about living in the northeast??
MHCSarah	hello TJ...welcome to the chat room. feel free to ask questions!!
Faithie	Yeah...the cold weather....do u like it?
SheilaMWebb	As a parent, I want to let you know how impressed I am at the level of engagement with the prospective student and the family, personal notes after visits, this chat room for parents, letters from the President stating the interest in the prospective student, the advantages of a women's college, on
MHCSarah	it's really awesome to have seasons. it's chilly here tonight and it's so lovely to take a walk on campus --- so refreshing!
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MHCSabahat	Not everyone is accustomed to the cold weather, but living here you need to bundle up! The snow is very pretty, and the campus lights up after Thanksgiving break, adding to the festive atmosphere :)
MHCEmma	thank you Sheila!
MHCSarah	Sheila, thank you for that lovely comment. I'm so pleased to hear that you've had a great experience as the parent of a prospective student.
MHCSabahat	It's not unusual to see snowmen scattered along the green in the middle of winter
MHCSabahat	Thank you, Sheila :)
MHCSarah	We do know that this search is a family process, and are so glad to hear that you've felt welcomed here.
Faithie	I like snow
Faithie	but I hardly ever see it down here
MHCSarah	Fantastic! You'll be just fine here, then.
MHCSabahat	Oh you won't worry about not seeing snow here!
MHCSarah	AND you have the best of both worlds -- you can be home during january if you'd like....
Faithie	MHC seems like a place where students get the best of both worlds
MHCSarah	yes! you can really have some incredible experiences here!
MHCSarah	and feel like you're part of a very global community because you are!
Faithie	Is there any dorms that are for specific majors or special interest dorms?
MHCSabahat	Speaking of global, I have made friends from Liberia, Puerto Rico, India, Pakistan, Japan, China, the list goes on.. And I myself live in Kuwait!
MHCShannon	Hi TJ, do you have any questions?
MHCSabahat	No, Faithie
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MHCSabahat	And that is part of the diversity on campus
MHCSabahat	Our residence halls are also very diverse
MHCEmma	welcome zelfletch!
zelfletch	HI!
MHCSabahat	with students of differents class years and majors all living together
MHCShannon	How are you doing? Do you have any questions?
zelfletch	yes
zelfletch	MANY
MHCShannon	Good !
MHCEmma	great!
MHCShannon	Ask away
zelfletch	i'm jamaican and i sort of worry about me being there but being the only Jamaican or one of two...
MHCSabahat	However, there are representatives from different majors in the dorms, so you can go to someone should you have any questions or concerns, not to mentioned the very supportive faculty we have
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MHCShannon	Oh you won't have a problem!
MHCEmma	oh no you won't!
MHCSabahat	Hi Cssarkles!
MHCShannon	There is a wonderful Jamaican population this campus.
MHCSabahat	Feel free to ask questions
zelfletch	really?
MHCEmma	we have a lot of people from the Carribeans and Africa here!
MHCShannon	Yes!
zelfletch	ok....
cssparkles	how would you describe the work load?
MHCShannon	We have two organizations here on campus for students of African and/or Caribbean decent. One is APAU
zelfletch	how easy is it to make friends? becuase i have heard horror stories about dorm mates being horrid and un-liveable-with
MHCSarah	excellent question, zelfletch
zelfletch	:)
MHCEmma	and we have strong community here. Plus you'll love being a part of MHACASA; the African and Carribean student associateion here
MHCSarah	you will not be alone. about 17% of students on campus are international students.
MHCSarah	and about one in three is a student of color
MHCShannon	MHACASA is a great organization. Within these two organizations, you'll make a lot of great friends and ties.
MHCEmma	you can visit our website here: http://www.mtholyoke.edu/org/mhacasa/ you'll feel right at home!
MHCSabahat	Coming to a college after high school, the work load will be more than that in high school, and MHC does have rigorous academics. Time management is an important skill to have, especially because our students like to participate in so much more outside of the classroom
zelfletch	...decent percentage
zelfletch	but suppose you dont have very good time management skills?
MHCSarah	yes, we're one of the most diverse campuses in the country
zelfletch	there is room for development, right?
MHCSarah	if you dont have good time management skills, there is time for practice.
MHCSabahat	You learn how to manage your work here, along with any extracurriculars you may wish to hold
zelfletch	speaking of extra-curriculars....
MHCSarah	but you should try to challenge yourself in high school so that you can start to learn there as much as possible
zelfletch	what is the entertainment like?
MHCShannon	We're always looking to recruit more diverse students, and try to reach out to as many different countries and US states as possible. But Mount Holyoke is the most ethnically diverse liberal arts country in the nation.
MHCShannon	So we have a VERY strong diverse background.
MHCSarah	but yes, of course, there is room for development. in time management and in many other areas of your life!
zelfletch	in the best 5 colleges by princeton review it says its a quiet campus and one should go there if they dont mind not being able to go to many parties
MHCSabahat	There is a variety of events always taking place within Mount Holyoke and the 5 colleges, from lectures by guest speakers to concerts to parties or karaoke nights
zelfletch	351
MHCShannon	I don't find that to be entirely true. I find lots to do on this campus, as far as parties, concerts, movie nights, ice skating in the winter! etc.
MHCShannon	Great people from the 5 college area come to Mount Holyoke to have fun, hang out with friends, meet new people, etc.
zelfletch	so there are boys present on the campus from time to time/
zelfletch	?
cssparkles	what should I expect from my interview on campus?
MHCShannon	Yes
MHCSabahat	There is extensive mixing of students from all the 5 colleges through the different opportunies that arise here, in terms of events - both academic and social
MHCShannon	You will see boys on this campus.
MHCEmma	yes. Zelfletch. you have guys in some classes because of the 5 collelge
MHCShannon	They will be in your classes.
MHCShannon	They will be at the parties.
MHCShannon	They will be at the activities.
MHCShannon	You also have the opportunity of taking classes elsewhere in the 5 college area
MHCShannon	So you can meet boys that way too.
zelfletch	so the only thing that would make it a womens college is the fact that only girls board there?
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MHCSabahat	No, all the opportunities here are for women
SheilaMWebb	thanks so much!
MHCSarah	you're welcome, sheila! take care and best wishes to your daughter!
MHCSarah	i think that saying that the only thing that makes mhc a women's college is that only women live here might be a bit of an oversimplification.
zelfletch	i know but u guys said that males are there and take part in activities and attend classes...so it isn't really ALL women's...apart from the fact that only women board there
MHCSabahat	Men are allowed to take classes here and attend all events, but MHC only enrolls women it is a higher education institute designed especially for women and their advancement and empowerment
zelfletch	oh
MHCSarah	meaning that a women's college MEANS so much more to students than JUST living with other women....
MHCSarah	ladies, can you say more about this?
MHCShannon	Well, when I talked about guys being present on this campus and being involved in campus life, I meant to stress that they are present but not to the point of being "members
MHCShannon	of the campus.
MHCShannon	Does that makes sense?
zelfletch	yes it does
zelfletch	thank u
MHCShannon	They are here to take classes, but will not be admitted as students.
MHCEmma	While men are allowed to take our classes and attend our events, the focus here is on women. they come here as visitors to our campus but ultimately, it's our community and the facilities here are for us!
zelfletch	ok
MHCShannon	Only women are admitted to the college, and only women can be live on campus.
MHCShannon	We just like to give opportunities to all 5 college students that would like to study on the campus the opportunity to do so.
MHCSabahat	Once again, i would like to emphasize all the opportunities at Mount Holyoke are for women
MHCEmma	And the structure here allows us to build a unique level of confidence that you get at very few places
MHCShannon	But Mount Holyoke is first and foremost a women's college, and an institution of talented, intelligent women.
zelfletch	ok...now food
MHCEmma	ha ha !
MHCShannon	haha
MHCSabahat	i love food!
MHCEmma	any particular questions/
MHCEmma	?
MHCShannon	We have three types of dining on campus!
MHCShannon	We have the Grab and Go
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zelfletch	at home i'm used to my deep fried flavoured chicken. is it true that mhc has some of the best food around?
MHCShannon	The standard dining hall
MHCShannon	And Blanchard Cafe
MHCShannon	Located in the campus
MHCSabahat	Hello Tenggis.. Feel free to ask any questions!
Tenggis	hello
Tenggis	thanks
MHCEmma	MHC sure does. I'm from Ghana and I do appreciate the food here
Tenggis	i'm from Mongolia
cssparkles	what can I expect from my on-campus interview?
Tenggis	and just applied to mhc
MHCShannon	We do have really good food. Blanchard Cafe offers some great culinary selections during the week
MHCShannon	That are very popular.
MHCShannon	And it's usually a different ethnic food as well
MHCEmma	plus we have facilities here that allow us to cook some food from home when we miss it. so don't worry, you'll get all the jerk and curry chicken you want :D
MHCShannon	For instance, yesterday they had Vietnamese Pho
Tenggis	what is the percentage of intl students admitted?
MHCSabahat	Your on-campus interview is designed to be a conversation
zelfletch	lol
MHCSarah	your on-campus interview is an opportunity for you to learn more about the college and for us to learn more about you!!!!
cssparkles	I've been the victim of a co-ed high school education, is there hope for me at MHC
MHCSabahat	there are no "set of questions" that the interviewers follow; you should consider the experiences you have had in high school and in the community, and what you have gained from them
Tenggis	what is the percentage of intl students admitted?
MHCSabahat	It is more competitive to be an international student than a domestic student, but not to forget that we have one of the highest college international students populations in the nation - we stand at 16%
MHCSarah	the percentage varies from year to year
Tenggis	yes i have