College Profile: Albright College

Often students think they want a big school without realizing that sometimes the best college experiences come in small packages. Nestled at the base of Mount Penn in Reading, Pennsylvania, Albright College offers a rich blend of history, traditions, and vibrant student life that prospective students will find both engaging and inspiring. On a recent visit, I noticed a population of committed and enthusiastic students taking advantage of exciting opportunities. 

History:

Established in 1856, Albright College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Berks County. Its origins trace back to Union Seminary, and through a series of mergers with institutions like Albright Collegiate Institute, Central Pennsylvania College, and Schuylkill College, it evolved into the Albright College we know today. The college is named after Jacob Albright, a Pennsylvania German evangelical preacher and founder of the Evangelical Association. 

Campus:

Walking around, you can’t help but notice the beauty. Albright's 118-acre suburban campus is not just a place for academic pursuits but also a haven for nature and art enthusiasts. Students can explore 15 sculptures scattered across the grounds and admire over 57 varieties of trees, making the campus a picturesque setting year-round. 

Traditions:

• Ponding: On their birthdays, students may find themselves playfully tossed into Sylvan Pond by friends—a lighthearted rite of passage that adds to the camaraderie on campus. 

• Oozeball: Each spring, students participate in this mud volleyball tournament, embracing fun and friendly competition. 

• International Dinner: Every November, the International Students’ Association hosts a dinner featuring global cuisines, allowing the campus community to savor diverse flavors and cultures. 

• Late-Night Breakfast: During finals, the college's president and vice presidents serve late-night breakfast to students, providing both nourishment and encouragement. 

  
  

Student Body:

Albright's commitment to diversity is evident in its student demographics:

• Enrollment: The college has around 1,650 students. 

• Gender Distribution: 56% female and 44% male students. 

• Ethnic Diversity: Approximately 48% of students are of color, reflecting one of the most diverse campuses among small, residential liberal arts colleges. 

• Residential Life: 81% of students live on campus, fostering a tight-knit community. 

• Geographic Representation: 35% of students come from out-of-state, bringing a wide range of perspectives to campus life. 

  
  

Academic Excellence and Flexibility:

• Majors and Co-Majors: With over 50 majors and 150+ co-major combinations, more than half of the students opt to co-major, allowing them to tailor their education to their interests. The structure encourages interdisciplinary learning.

• Student-Faculty Ratio: A 10:1 ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship. 

  
  

Student Life:

• Student Organizations: Over 70 groups, including leadership organizations and a vibrant Greek life, cater to a wide array of interests. 

• Athletics: The college fields 23 varsity athletic teams, with 38% of students participating as student-athletes. 

  
  

If you are interested in a small school in Pennsylvania full of rigor and opportunity, then Albright might be a place for you! Visit in person, and browse the website at https://www.albright.edu/home/.