Academics
A "forward-thinking and creative school," Lesley College at Lesley University lives up to its motto, "Let's wake up the world." Here, students, faculty, and staff are "socially and environmentally conscious" and dedicated to "helping others through different therapies and education." Lesley operates top-rated programs in counseling, psychology, business, and therapy, as well as "one of the best education programs, not only in New England, but in the country." With a strong focus on experiential learning, Lesley students have "the ability to complete multiple internships throughout [the] college experience." Within the curriculum, students also participate in real-world projects, or practicums, which "provide insight on a profession and are extremely hands-on." These practical experiences, in conjunction with the school's excellent career center, contribute to the "incredibly high job-placement rate among graduates." In the classroom, "Professors lecture but also allow adequate time for discussion for students to debate issues and speak more about them." A student adds, "Many of the professors at Lesley are deeply devoted to the material they teach and always come up with new ways to deliver that material." The "small classes and the ability to establish relationships with professors and staff" are key to the Lesley experience. On the flip side, students acknowledge that, "We don't have as many classes offered as a larger university might."
Student Body
A haven for future teachers, activists, and socially responsible citizens, "Open-minded, artistic, and seemingly liberal would be good descriptions of the students here at Lesley." A single-sex college until 2005, Lesley is predominantly female, and "there are few minorities" on campus. However, everyone finds a niche, and "no matter who you are or what you're like, you're going to find a group of friends who accept you for who you are." A current student agrees, "Students come in all shapes, sizes, sexual orientations, religions, and hair colors, and it's a great community because of that." Some Lesley students even claim that, "No one would ever feel uncomfortable just sitting down at random table at lunch and striking up a conversation with someone they have never met." Leftist thought and activism are prevalent, and "Clubs and activities for community service, women, victims of abuse, lesbians, gays, bisexual, etc. are so common, that it is an obvious part of the student community."
Campus Life
On the Lesley campus, "There is always some activity going on, whether it be a movie, open-mic night, or roller skating." Although a large percentage of the student body lives off campus, most "Students here are also very involved in the Lesley community." In general, "Community service, arts, and political and activism organizations are much more popular" than sports, though the school's athletics organizations have become stronger during the past few years. The campus benefits from tranquility of suburban Cambridge, a "nice quiet area" where "The parks around here and the view of the Charles River are absolutely beautiful." At the same time, "Harvard Square offers a variety of restaurants and stores only a short walk away, and taking the red line down into Boston provides access to one of the greatest cities on the planet." Students note, "On occasion there will be a free students night at a museum, aquarium, or theater, and all students from around the Boston area will attend." In addition, "Through Campus Activities, we are always receiving discounted tickets to sports events, shows, and movies." On the weekends, many students go home or "travel to BU or other neighboring schools for parties or to see friends."
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