Franklin and Marshall College was founded more than 200 years ago in, perhaps, one of the best educational investments that comes to mind: a 200 British Pound donation by Benjamin Franklin. In the centuries that have passed since Franklin’s initial contribution, F&M has grown into two seemingly contrasting entities: a renowned research institution, and a well-regarded liberal arts college. Still, Franklin and Marshall succeeds as each. The school hosts research fairs in the fall and spring, which focus on student-faculty projects. These projects are easy to come by, especially with the college’s sole focus on undergraduate degrees and relatively low student-to-faculty ratio. In addition, F&M encourages that students take time to study abroad; during any given semester, nearly a third of the student body is studying abroad.
Franklin and Marshall’s community atmosphere flourishes on campus. The school’s living quarters are reminiscent of a Harry Potter-type situation, by which each freshman is assigned to one of four College Houses which are overseen by faculty members. Members of the same College House live, eat, and attend events together. By a student’s third year, he or she may elect to leave the College House (but can stay). Many students (about 35% of males and 17% of females) choose to participate in the Greek system, which proves to be a popular diversion for group-oriented students. In addition, Lancaster is truly a welcoming area to Franklin and Marshall students. The city hosts First Friday on, understandably enough, the first Friday of each month, during which stores and restaurants stay open late. The similarly-named Third Fridays feature local art galleries and performance theaters.
