CollegeAdmissionsInternational.org
Haverford College, a liberal arts institution located in Haverford, Pennsylvania (on the Main Line) is known for its rigorous academic environment and emphasis on a collaborative learning experience. The college offers a variety of majors, but the most popular ones include Biology, Economics, Political Science, Psychology, and English.
Haverford's interdisciplinary approach to education allows students to engage with subjects across different fields, fostering a well-rounded intellectual development.
The faculty-student relationship at Haverford is a hallmark of the college, characterized by close mentoring, small class sizes, and a student-faculty ratio of 9:1. The college also places a strong emphasis on research, with the vast majority of students undertaking original research projects before graduation. Students are encouraged to think critically, make meaningful connections between disciplines, and contribute to the community.
Haverford's facilities include cutting-edge science labs, spacious libraries, and well-equipped art studios. The Marian E. Koshland Integrated Natural Sciences Center is particularly noteworthy, supporting advanced research across biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology. The Magill Library offers vast academic resources and study spaces. Meanwhile, the VCAM (Visual Culture, Arts, and Media) building provides facilities for students interested in film, visual arts, and other creative endeavors.
Sports and recreational facilities are abundant, with the Douglas B. Gardner Integrated Athletic Center offering students access to an indoor track, fitness center, and courts for basketball and squash. Haverford's facilities, combined with its picturesque 200-acre arboretum campus, contribute to a stimulating and supportive academic environment.
Internships are a significant part of the Haverford experience, as the college encourages students to explore real-world applications of their studies. The Center for Career and Professional Advising (CCPA) helps connect students with internships and externships, both domestically and internationally. Students have interned at prominent organizations such as the World Bank, Google, NIH, and local non-profits in the Philadelphia area. Funding is available for students seeking unpaid or underpaid internships, making it possible for all students to gain valuable professional experience regardless of financial background.
The ideal Haverford student is intellectually curious, independent, and committed to social justice. Haverford places a great emphasis on community values, particularly trust, concern, and respect, which are encapsulated in its Honor Code—a document written and maintained by the students. Those who thrive at Haverford are often self-motivated learners who value open dialogue, academic honesty, and a sense of responsibility to their peers.
Haverford College has a reputation for being a safe and inclusive campus. The college's small size and close-knit community contribute to a sense of security, and the Honor Code extends beyond academics to promote respectful interactions in all aspects of campus life. There is a 24/7 Public Safety team, and students report a generally high level of trust and safety across campus.
This is one of the very few campuses I visited where students left their backpacks and laptops usurpervised anywhere on campus.
The social scene at Haverford is diverse but often relaxed. It lacks the presence of fraternities or sororities, which contributes to an inclusive and non-competitive social environment. Social activities are often organized around cultural clubs, athletics, and the arts. Events such as performances at the VCAM, campus-wide dances, and trips to Philadelphia create opportunities for students to socialize in varied settings.
Haverford students are passionate about a wide range of extracurricular activities. Popular clubs include the Bi-College News, Haverford Mock Trial, the Black Students' League, and the Outdoors Club. Many students also participate in affinity groups that provide spaces for dialogue and activism, particularly around issues of identity, social justice, and community service.
International Student Experience and OPT Opportunities
Haverford's international student community benefits from a supportive environment tailored to meet their academic and social needs. The International Student Support Office provides guidance with immigration, cultural transition, and academic challenges. The college ensures that international students have access to resources to make their experience smooth and rewarding.