The Best of the BBC

Introduction
Bates is very, very, very small. At times you may feel overwhelmed by the sense of isolation and entrapment. Other times you may feel like you're in high school again. Though seemingly onerous concepts, this "intimacy" contributes to the sense of community and belonging infecting Batesies. This sense of community spans beyond campus borders into the city of Lewiston; vast measures have been taken to improve the college's relationship with Lewiston. If you crave acceptance and community within a beautiful (but cold) setting then Bates is the place for you.

Campus Life and Social Life
The social structure at Bates does not promote social mobility. Students tend to form exclusive groups or clicks. This sense of exclusivity is masked by everyone's outward "friendliness" and "acceptance" of others (though there are a lot of very nice people here). Gossip and rumors run rampant throughout the campus. So, don't do anything to taint your reputation on Saturday night or else Sunday morning all of Commons (the only cafeteria) will be stirring. Nonetheless, you will make amazing friends bonding over the long cold winter. These friendships will be the only thing to keep you going... Because the student population is so small it seems like everyone is an athlete. Don't fret, these jocks are harmless, though exceptions do exist. Weekends are usually spent going to a concert, a house party on or off campus, or just chilling in your dorm. WRBC, our acclaimed campus radio station brings in great musical performers. Campus security is so relaxed it seems as though they promote substance abuse. Drinking and smoking are such popular past times that "chem-free" housing no longer exists. Academics
Teachers provoke students to think creatively and expand their minds. Professors insight interesting conversations inside and outside of class. There are few TAs, and none teach classes. The workload is challenging, but nothing too difficult. Though seniors are challenged by the required thesis for their respective majors. All departments are very strong, especially Economics, Political Science and Psychology.

Student Body
Diversity is definitely lacking on campus. Most students are white, wealthy and from the Northeast. It may seems everyone's from "just outside of Boston", but greater diversity exists beyond aesthetics and geographic location. Students' political views span all spectrums, but a sense of tolerance permeates throughout most. There is little pressure to look, dress or act one way or the other. And a love of the great state of Maine unites all. The student population posses an infectious charisma and charm. Students are able to balance their academics, extra-curriculars and social life with ease; appearing perfectly "well-rounded".

In Closing...
Three college students walk into a bar in Maine. One from Bates, one from Bowdoin and one from Colby. All three order their respective beers. The bartender serves up three cold beers with a fly in each one. The Bowdoin student is appalled by the fly and immediately leaves the bar. The Colby student slyly removes the fly, then continues to drink the beer. The Bates student spots the fly, shrugs their shoulders, then continues to enjoy their cold beer.