Considering higher education options? Debating between a specialized degree geared towards a single profession or a versatile liberal arts education? Schools like St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, offer this expansive academic experience.
Forecasting the future is a tricky endeavor. For example, nobody knew 40 years ago that cell phones would be ubiquitous, owned by over 7 billion individuals, which is upwards of 91% of the world’s population. The decisions you make about your education now will ripple through the rest of your life, significantly shaping your future.
So, what’s the appeal of a liberal arts college?
These institutions provide a well-rounded curriculum, offering courses in the humanities, arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and even math. This isn’t a specialized training ground; it’s a multidisciplinary approach that aims to equip students with key skills such as critical thought, problem-solving abilities, and articulate communication in various subjects.
Focus on Students
Primarily offering undergraduate courses, liberal arts colleges prioritize student success above research or faculty advancement. Educators at these schools are invested in student progress, mentoring, and personalized feedback.
In this more intimate academic setting, class sizes are smaller, which leads to an interactive learning environment. Here, students not only listen but also contribute to classroom discussions, thus enriching the educational experience for everyone involved.
If you’re a young person in Ruidoso weighing your college options, try seeing yourself in one of these pictures. New Mexicans who secure admission at St. John’s College have the opportunity to receive a $13,000 grant!
Life Beyond Academia
The sense of community at private liberal arts colleges tends to be stronger, particularly in the initial year. The smaller student body makes it easier to forge meaningful relationships. Even with their compact size, these campuses offer a multitude of opportunities for students to build leadership skills through various activities and student organizations.
Gearing Up for Further Education
Statistically, more graduates from liberal arts colleges go on to pursue graduate degrees. The broad foundation they receive can easily dovetail into a more specialized field of study at the graduate level, thereby enhancing their skill sets even further.
Why Employers Value Liberal Arts Degrees
Job-hopping is more common now than ever before. In such a fluctuating employment landscape, the wide array of skills gained from a liberal arts education is a valuable asset. Employers increasingly look for candidates who have the capability for teamwork, critical reasoning, and problem-solving—skills that a liberal arts curriculum often fosters.
In various fields, the same qualities are highly desired in applicants. According to the 2020 Workplace Learning Trends Report, communication, creativity, and critical thinking were in the top 10 soft skills that employers value.
A diploma from a liberal arts institution like St. John’s College can open numerous career doors in fields as diverse as technology, public policy, design, and many more. Internships in various fields can also lead to careers in various areas. It offers the versatility required to navigate a constantly evolving job market.
Interested? Consider scheduling a campus visit to St. John’s College to learn more.
Story Sponsored by St. John’s College
Posted by Ruidoso.com
