Profile

Established in 1932 by a group of forward-thinkers, Bennington College is a close-knit, private college in Bennington, VT. It stands out by the being the first to include the visual and performing arts in a liberal arts education and requiring students to spend a term every year at work outside campus. Today, Bennington is an innovative hub for artists, dancers, scientists and scholars who want to apply their talents to address global concerns. Students at Bennington design their education through the Plan Process where they work closely with faculty to determine the direction of their study. Bennington can also boast about its students post-grad: A number have won major artistic awards, and the LA Philharmonic count Bennington graduates among their top ranks as well as Microsoft and Christie’s. Notable alumni include authors Donna Tartt and Michael Pollen, actor Peter Dinklage and photographer Sally Mann.