Campus Life
We know that college isn’t just about developing your intellectual side.
It’s also a time to find the people you can lean on so that you can thoughtfully and authentically test your limits.
Bates is a place where students hold doors for each other. Our competitive streak is limited to games against our rivals in the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). And our professors are more likely to ask, “How are you doing?” than “How are you doing in my class?”
Clubs & Organizations
With nearly 100 student-run clubs you’re sure to find something of interest. What you won’t find are fraternities or sororities. We’ve never had them. Never will.
You’ll see our community spirit at work in the library, which closes early on Fridays to make sure students get a study break and keeps a hot water kettle near the research desk to help us stay warm in the winter. You’ll find it between the lines of the Napkin Board in Commons, our one dining hall, where dining staff respond to each comment or suggestion with a personal note (or a meme).
Bobcat Ventures
The student-run Bobcat Ventures club holds an annual pitch competition with a $10,000 prize to the winning small business idea. Competitors attend development workshops and get feedback and support from alumni entrepreneurs.
Try Something New
Bates is special because our community gives you not just time, space, and resources to define your interests, but also the support to care for yourself along the way. That way, you’re prepared to take the risks that will define who you become.
