Colleges That Change Lives is a fantastic organization that puts students’ futures first.
As a high school graduate, finding a school for your desired major can be challenging, but that will also give you lifelong skills.
With this organization, students can have skills that help them educationally and interpersonally.
What Is Colleges That Change Lives?
Colleges That Change Lives is a non-profit organization initially developed in 1996. It was loosely based on a book by Loren Pope (student advocate and college counselor).
The central premise behind the book was to change the general public’s idea of what college truly is.
It was a very insightful read that discussed how choosing a college goes far beyond the traditional steps you’d take.
For example, popular colleges aren’t always the best choices for every student in the nation.
Colleges That Change Lives was developed using a new, student-centered approach to college planning.
How Does Colleges That Change Lives Help Students?
Choosing the right college can be incredibly stressful for students, especially if you have to pick a school on your own.
This is where CTCL comes into play, helping students choose the best schools based on their needs and skills.
Through this service, you can find an assortment of printed materials and outreach programs for families and students.
There are also professional services for education companies, schools, and counselors to help guide students in the right direction.
Essentially, you will find these resources most helpful if you are ready to look for schools outside rankings and ratings.
Most of the schools that students will find through CTCL help instill knowledge, values, and character to young students.
Another massive component to consider with Colleges That Change Lives is they help every student, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, and gender.
It is also a phenomenal program that ensures students from any socioeconomic status are given equal opportunities for the best possible education.
With their help, students have a fair shot at pursuing post-secondary schooling without discrimination.
How Can I Find Schools Using Colleges That Change Lives?
Outside of talking to a counselor within the program, you can also use CTCL’s website to search for prospective programs.
Students can browse by major, geographic region, or even if the school is test-optional.
There are different filters, such as whether the school features varsity athletics and the state it’s located in.
Using this search criterion, you can find a list of CTCL-recommended schools in your immediate area.
You will then be able to review numerous tenets of each school to help you choose the right one for your needs.
The most common areas of research to focus on include:
- Character – How the school you’re searching for is designed to help students build character
- Faculty & Academics – What about each school makes them unique compared to others
- Areas of Study – What programs does the school offer for students to enroll in?
- Varsity Sports – If you’re an athlete, this category tells you what athletic programs are available.
- Life After College – How will the school assist students with preparing themselves for life after college?
Who Are the Colleges That Change Lives Members?
Aside from giving students advice when choosing a school, there are also specific schools that students, families, and counselors can find through CTCL.
These colleges and universities are members of the CTCL program, ensuring students have the most fulfilling education based on their specific needs.
Let’s look at some of the most popular colleges you will find in this program:
Antioch College
With a strong backing in supporting students through their education, Antioch College has been renowned since the 1850s.
They also assist students with finding employment post-graduation, as they require students spend 25% of their studies in co-op positions.
You’ll find this is one of the best schools to consider if you want lifelong experiences to help you after graduation.
Bard College
Bard College is one of the most collaborative schools you are likely to find.
Students will join a diverse ecosystem of students, staff, and faculty to help them explore a world of liberal arts education.
It is one of the more unique schools to consider if you are also interested in studying abroad.
Cornell College
At Cornell College, you will be a part of a unique approach to liberal arts education.
This school is known for its “One Course at A Time” curriculum, which allows students to learn a single subject per eight academic blocks.
Using this approach, you will become a specialist in various unique disciplines, helping you prepare for your future life.
Goucher College
Goucher College is a fantastic school for students interested in learning from the best, as 87% of faculty members have an advanced degree in their field.
Students will find they can combine different fields into a double or interdisciplinary major for diverse learning.
Also, they offer an assortment of community learning programs and internships for real-world experiences.
Knox College
With a student body of 1,200, Knox College is an excellent option for students looking for a diverse yet small school.
Most of the curriculum focuses on academics while providing hands-on experience at the same time.
Students will try their hands at research, internships, and off-campus programs during their studies.
Rhodes College
Aside from its jaw-droppingly beautiful gothic campus, Rhodes College has plenty to offer.
For instance, students will engage intellectually through a more realistic liberal arts curriculum nationwide.
They will also unlock numerous experiences to help them reflect on their development as a person.
University of Puget Sound
The University of Puget Sound has a great combination of students from across the country.
With a distinctive liberal arts curriculum, they are a fantastic choice for any majors, from music to business.
There are also an impressive number of interdisciplinary studies, helping you diversify your learning.
College of Wooster
If you are looking for mentored undergraduate research, the College of Wooster is a premier choice.
Students will work alongside faculty to become character leaders in their industry of choice.
Also, you will have some unique independent learning opportunities out of any other school.
Let CTCL Help You Find the Best Program!
Every student needs to consider using the help of Colleges That Change Lives.
With their diverse list of excellent schools across the nation, students can find the ideal type of learning for them.
Instead of following the flow of ratings and popularity, CTCL uses a student-led approach to match you with the best program.
