katspitzer
- 6 days ago
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College Profile: St. John's College

I have lived in Annapolis for almost 20 years and have attended various events on the beautiful campus of St. John’s College. One of the community’s favorite events is held there annually: US Naval Academy vs. St. John’s College Croquet Match! The lawn is filled with people in large, decorative hats and colorful garb to take part in the historic event. I have also had the pleasure of enjoying many lectures and art shows at the wonderful gallery on campus. This is a small, but unique, institution in a gorgeous setting right in downtown Annapolis.

Fun Facts About St. John’s College:

Unconventional Curriculum: St. John’s College is known for its distinctive curriculum focused on the Great Books of Western Civilization. Students engage in a rigorous study of classic texts across a wide range of disciplines, from philosophy and history to mathematics and science.
Small Student-to-Faculty Ratio: With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 7:1, St. John’s College offers a highly personalized education. This means more one-on-one interaction with professors and a close-knit academic community.
Historic Campus: The Annapolis campus is located on a site that has been home to educational institutions since the early 18th century. The college’s main building, McDowell Hall, is a beautifully preserved example of Georgian architecture.
Honor Code: St. John’s College operates under a unique Honor Code that emphasizes integrity and mutual respect. This code fosters a strong sense of community and personal responsibility among students.

A Brief History of St. John’s College:

St. John’s College was founded in 1696 as King William's School, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States. It became St. John’s College in 1784, and has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to liberal arts education.

The college’s historic Annapolis campus, established in 1784, has been a center of intellectual inquiry for centuries. In 1964, St. John’s College expanded with a second campus in Santa Fe, New Mexico, broadening its impact and reach.

Traditions at St. John’s College:

Commencement Ceremony: The college’s graduation ceremony is a deeply cherished tradition. Students and faculty don traditional academic regalia, and the ceremony often features thought-provoking speeches and reflections on the journey through the Great Books curriculum.
The Annual “Discourse”: A highlight of the academic year, the Discourse is a formal discussion where students present and debate ideas from the Great Books. It’s a showcase of the college’s commitment to dialogue and critical thinking.
“The Big Event”: Held each year, The Big Event is a community celebration that includes games, music, and various festivities. It’s a way for students and faculty to come together and enjoy a day of fun and camaraderie.
Formal Hall Dinners: Held regularly, these formal dinners are a time for the community to gather, enjoy a meal together, and engage in meaningful conversation. It’s a way to foster close relationships and build a strong sense of community.

Student Statistics at St. John’s College:

Undergraduate Enrollment: St. John’s College has a student body of approximately 500 undergraduates on each campus, ensuring a close-knit community.
Diverse Backgrounds: The college values diversity and attracts students from various geographical, cultural, and educational backgrounds, contributing to a rich and dynamic academic environment.
Graduation Rate: The graduation rate at St. John’s College is notably high, reflecting the institution’s commitment to supporting students through their academic journey.
Student Organizations: With numerous student-led organizations and clubs, including literary societies and discussion groups, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved and pursue their interests outside the classroom.

If you are looking for an intimate environment for college, featuring an abundance of literature and academic discussion, St. John’s might be just the right fit. Walking around campus, the students seemed engaged and happy. And with so much going on mere steps from campus, it’s an excellent environment for living and learning simultaneously. For more information, check out the website at https://www.sjc.edu, and try to schedule a visit in person.

College Profile: St. John's College

Fun Facts About St. John’s College:

Unconventional Curriculum: St. John’s College is known for its distinctive curriculum focused on the Great Books of Western Civilization. Students engage in a rigorous study of classic texts across a wide range of disciplines, from philosophy and history to mathematics and science.

Small Student-to-Faculty Ratio: With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 7:1, St. John’s College offers a highly personalized education. This means more one-on-one interaction with professors and a close-knit academic community.

Historic Campus: The Annapolis campus is located on a site that has been home to educational institutions since the early 18th century. The college’s main building, McDowell Hall, is a beautifully preserved example of Georgian architecture.

Honor Code: St. John’s College operates under a unique Honor Code that emphasizes integrity and mutual respect. This code fosters a strong sense of community and personal responsibility among students.

A Brief History of St. John’s College:

St. John’s College was founded in 1696 as King William's School, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the United States. It became St. John’s College in 1784, and has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to liberal arts education.

The college’s historic Annapolis campus, established in 1784, has been a center of intellectual inquiry for centuries. In 1964, St. John’s College expanded with a second campus in Santa Fe, New Mexico, broadening its impact and reach.

Traditions at St. John’s College:

Commencement Ceremony: The college’s graduation ceremony is a deeply cherished tradition. Students and faculty don traditional academic regalia, and the ceremony often features thought-provoking speeches and reflections on the journey through the Great Books curriculum.

The Annual “Discourse”: A highlight of the academic year, the Discourse is a formal discussion where students present and debate ideas from the Great Books. It’s a showcase of the college’s commitment to dialogue and critical thinking.

“The Big Event”: Held each year, The Big Event is a community celebration that includes games, music, and various festivities. It’s a way for students and faculty to come together and enjoy a day of fun and camaraderie.

Formal Hall Dinners: Held regularly, these formal dinners are a time for the community to gather, enjoy a meal together, and engage in meaningful conversation. It’s a way to foster close relationships and build a strong sense of community.

Student Statistics at St. John’s College:

Undergraduate Enrollment: St. John’s College has a student body of approximately 500 undergraduates on each campus, ensuring a close-knit community.

Diverse Backgrounds: The college values diversity and attracts students from various geographical, cultural, and educational backgrounds, contributing to a rich and dynamic academic environment.

Graduation Rate: The graduation rate at St. John’s College is notably high, reflecting the institution’s commitment to supporting students through their academic journey.

Student Organizations: With numerous student-led organizations and clubs, including literary societies and discussion groups, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved and pursue their interests outside the classroom.

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