College Profile: Dickinson College

On a recent rainy day, I had the chance to take a counselor tour of Dickinson College. I fell in love with this gem of a school that offers terrific programs for its students. For more than 240 years, Dickinson College has prepared students to become engaged global citizens. Located in the historic and adorable town of Carlisle, Dickinson combines the close-knit feel of a liberal arts college with a strong commitment to global education, sustainability, and experiential learning. 

History:

Dickinson College was chartered in 1783 by Benjamin Rush, a signer of the United States Declaration of Independence and one of America's leading physicians. It holds the distinction of being the first college founded in the newly independent United States after the American Revolution. The college was named after John Dickinson, known as the "Penman of the Revolution" for his influential writings supporting colonial rights. 

From its founding, Dickinson embraced innovative ideas. Benjamin Rush advocated for the teaching of modern languages and an international perspective, making Dickinson one of the earliest American colleges to emphasize global citizenship; a value that remains central today. 

Fun Facts:

1. It Was the First College Founded in the New United States

While several colleges existed before the American Revolution, Dickinson was the first institution chartered after America became an independent nation. 

2. The College's Unofficial Mascot Is a Mermaid

One of Dickinson's most beloved symbols is a mermaid. When architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe requested a weathervane depicting Triton, a local coppersmith misunderstood the instructions and created a mermaid instead. Students embraced the accidental symbol, and it remains an iconic part of Dickinson culture today. 

3. Dickinson Was a Sustainability Pioneer

The college is recognized nationally for sustainability and was among the first colleges in the United States to achieve carbon neutrality. Environmental responsibility is woven throughout campus operations and academics. 

4. Red Adirondack Chairs Are a Campus Landmark

The famous red Adirondack chairs scattered across campus have become a symbol of Dickinson's collaborative and flexible learning environment. Students move them around campus for studying, conversations, and outdoor classes. 

5. Study Abroad Is Part of Dickinson's DNA

Long before study abroad became common, Dickinson established international programs and global partnerships. Today, it is consistently recognized for its strong global education opportunities.

Traditions:

Signing In and Signing Out - One of Dickinson's most meaningful traditions occurs at the beginning and end of a student's college career. During Convocation, first-year students walk through the historic doors of Old West and sign into the college. At Commencement, graduates walk back through those same doors and sign out as alumni. 

Don't Step on the Seal - Legend says that students who step on the bronze Dickinson seal embedded in Britton Plaza will not graduate. Whether students believe the superstition or not, most carefully walk around it.

 

Cafsgiving - Each year, Dickinson hosts "Cafsgiving," a campus-wide Thanksgiving celebration where administrators, faculty, and staff serve students a festive meal. It is one of the most anticipated community events of the year.

 

Red & White Day - Named for the college colors, Red & White Day celebrates Dickinson athletics and school spirit through games, tailgates, reunions, and community events. 

The Red Devil Mascot - The "Red Devils" nickname originated in 1930 after a sportswriter praised the football team's grit and determination. Students quickly adopted the name, and it remains Dickinson's official mascot today. 

Historic Rivalries - Dickinson maintains one of the oldest athletic rivalries in the country with Franklin & Marshall College. The schools compete annually for the Conestoga Wagon trophy, while another historic rivalry with Gettysburg College centers on the Little Brown Bucket trophy.

 

Student Statistics:

According to Dickinson's latest published figures:

Statistic	Figure
Total Enrollment	Approximately 2,100 students
Student-Faculty Ratio	9:1
Average Class Size	17 students
Majors Offered	46
Student Organizations	More than 110
Varsity Sports	25 NCAA Division III teams
States/Territories Represented	43 plus Washington, D.C.
Countries Represented	44
Domestic Students of Color	22%
International Students	12%
Graduate Success Rate	96% employed, in graduate school, internships, or service within one year

What Makes Dickinson Stand Out?

Dickinson combines the intimacy of a small liberal arts college with opportunities often associated with larger universities. Students benefit from close relationships with professors, extensive research opportunities, strong internship support, nationally recognized study-abroad programs, and a campus culture centered on engagement and global citizenship. The college's emphasis on experiential learning, sustainability, and international education has helped it maintain a distinctive identity among American liberal arts institutions.

I had the chance to talk with students, faculty, and staff. Each perspective showed the rich experience possible for students. If Dickinson sounds like a good option for you, I encourage you to visit the beautiful campus in person and explore the website at https://www.dickinson.edu/.