College Corner: College of Charleston
As seniors are beginning the college application process, it is important that they have access to all the information and resources that they may need to determine their top choices. There are numerous options for colleges that may be the best for someone, and the College of Charleston is a school that many should consider if they’re looking for a fun school with academic rigor. One Schreiber Class of 2025 alumnus, Kaitlyn Schechter, began her journey at Charleston a few months ago, and greatly recommends the school for current high-school students.
College of Charleston, otherwise known as CofC, is a public institution founded in the bustling city of Charleston, South Carolina. It has approximately 12,000 students across its campus, which includes 80 acres of the downtown city area. Additionally, one of the reasons that the college is so popular is due to its beauty. Its coastal location is great for taking a break or studying peacefully.
“The campus is gorgeous, and it looks like something from a movie. Nothing beats the Cistern Yard. It’s right in the middle of campus with all the historic buildings surrounding it and is overshadowed by giant oak trees. My friends and I always bring blankets and sit out there with our laptops. It’s just the most relaxing place to study,” said Schechter.
In addition to its beauty, the school spirit of the Charleston Cougars draws people in. The college has 19 NCAA Division 1 varsity sports, including volleyball, baseball, and sailing, and many more. Their sailing program is their most accomplished, being recognized as one of the top sailing programs in the nation. Notably, many students walk around campus with Cougar clothing to support their school, and sports games are always packed with cheering audiences.
Another highlight of the college is its wide variety of study areas. Students of the college have choices depending on their mood and how they are feeling. There are three large libraries on campus.
“If I really need to focus, I go to the Addlestone Library. It’s very big and has many different sections for quiet or group study. However, the third floor is definitely my favorite for focus and concentration,” said Schechter.
Off campus, there are also many places to explore, including various shops and coffee spots. When wanting to switch things up, students can head downtown to a coffee shop called The Daily or Second State Coffee. Students can also visit King Street to dine at restaurants. Charleston’s on-campus cuisine is also notable. Their main dining hall, Liberty Fresh Food Company, has a multitude of options. Their menu includes everything from comfort food to vegetarian and vegan meals. They also have an Italian kitchen, a salad bar, a deli, and a bakery.
For dorming, the CofC provides comfortable rooms with individual bathrooms.
“The rooms are really nice, and having our own bathroom is such a luxury compared to what I expected. Surprisingly, I feel very at home. There are also plenty of housing options, from historic homes near campus to modern apartments. Students can definitely find a place that fits their vibe once they’re ready to move off campus,” said Schechter.
Outside of class, students can attend several extracurricular activities, such as the Charleston Green Club, which focuses on environmental projects like beach cleanups and sustainability campaigns. Students can also volunteer at the Center for Civic Engagement to become more involved in service projects around the city and help the local community. The college is also very inclusive of religious life. There is a Catholic campus ministry, a Hillel for Jewish students, and several Christian fellowships.
“I also joined the photography club because I’ve been interested in it my whole life. It’s a great way to stay active and meet new people. There are also interfaith and multicultural religious organizations, so no matter what you believe, you can always find a welcoming community,” said Schechter.
The atmosphere of CofC is compassionate and homelike, frightening, or isolating like many people are worried about for college. Students look out for each other, whether going to a friend’s sports event, a play, or a volunteer activity. Everyone just wants to be a part of something positive. Additionally, the comfortable dorm life allows students to form friendships quickly.
“Everyone on my floor is really close. We cook together in the kitchen, study in the lounge, and spend time together on weekends. It makes the transition to college so much easier when you have people right down the hall that have become your best friends. Charleston is big enough to constantly meet new classmates but still small enough to still see people individually,” said Schechter.
The College of Charleston offers early decision, along with early action and regular decisions. The range of binding and non-binding options for applications makes the college a flexible choice for applying students. Early decision I and early action applications are due Nov. 1, early decision II is due Jan. 5, and regular decision is due Jan. 15. Early decision I results begin rolling out in early Dec., with early action close behind in mid-Dec.
To Schreiber High School students thinking of applying to the College of Charleston, Schechter offered some advice.
“Charleston is seeking out students who want to be involved and who care about the community. They don’t only read grades. Let your personality show through your application. Be open to new experiences. Say yes to things that scare you a little. College is what you make of it, and Charleston gives you so many opportunities to grow. I’ve already learned so much about myself here; it’s really starting to feel like a home,” said Schechter.