Returning to Dickinson: A Homecoming of Purpose and Passion

For many, higher education is more than just a profession—it's a calling. After nearly two decades away, my return to Dickinson College as the Dean of Admissions has been nothing short of a homecoming. My journey has taken me across the country, from Grinnell College in Iowa, where I served as Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, to Pomona College in California, where I spent the past 13 years. But Dickinson has always held a special place in my heart.

There’s something about this community that stays with you. The faculty, the students, and the town of Carlisle all contribute to an environment that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply welcoming. It’s a college that values connections, and you’ll see that firsthand—whether it’s through faculty mentorship, collaborative student projects, or the close-knit relationships that define life on campus.

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Angie Brown, a Dickinson graduate and fellow admissions professional, who will provide more insights about the college. But before we dive into the specifics of academics, student life, and admissions, let me tell you what makes Dickinson College so special.

A Community That Feels Like Home

Dickinson is not just a liberal arts college; it’s a close-knit community where faculty and students thrive together. The relationships between professors and students are deeply personal and transformational, fostering a culture where students are encouraged to explore, challenge ideas, and make meaningful connections.

Why Dickinson Stands Out:

Small but diverse: With over 2,200 students, Dickinson is large enough to offer a variety of perspectives but small enough to maintain a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Faculty-driven advising: Every student is paired with a faculty advisor who guides them from their first-year seminar through graduation, helping them navigate academic choices, career paths, and experiential learning.
A vibrant town: Carlisle, PA, is a manageable, charming town with everything students need—restaurants, green spaces, and access to nature. We’re just two miles from the Appalachian Trail and six miles from the Dickinson College Farm, making outdoor activities a key part of student life.
An emphasis on global engagement: Dickinson is recognized for its commitment to global education, boasting study abroad programs in 40+ countries and a strong focus on sustainability and global citizenship.

Academics: A Holistic, Interdisciplinary Approach

At Dickinson, students aren’t just choosing a major—they’re crafting a personalized academic journey.

Key Academic Highlights

60+ fields of study, including traditional disciplines and unique interdisciplinary programs.
Students are admitted to the college, not to a specific major, allowing for flexibility and exploration.
Two-thirds of students declare their major in their second year, giving them the freedom to take diverse courses before committing to a field.
Personalized advising system, where first-year students have one-on-one Zoom calls with faculty advisorsbefore their first semester.
Hands-on learning through research, internships, and service-learning projects.

New & Unique Academic Programs

Dickinson continues to innovate and expand its academic offerings. Recent additions include:

The Burgess Institute for the Study of the Global Economy, which provides experiential learning, professional skills workshops, and career support for students in business, finance, and international affairs.
A new Global Studies Institute, preparing students to tackle pressing global challenges.
A strong focus on sustainability, with programs like Environmental Science, Sustainability Studies, and an active college farm that integrates agricultural practices with academic coursework.

Study Abroad: A Signature Dickinson Experience

Dickinson is one of the nation’s top colleges for study abroad participation, with nearly 65% of students spending a semester or year abroad.

Why Dickinson’s Study Abroad Programs Are Unique

Financial aid and scholarships travel with students, ensuring accessibility.
Wide range of programs, from English-language courses to immersive, foreign-language experiences.
Seamless academic integration, allowing students to study abroad without delaying graduation.
Special programs like the Oxford Partnership, which offers top students an opportunity to study at Oxford University.

For students who want an internationally focused education, Dickinson provides unparalleled access to global learning opportunities.

Experiential Learning: More Than Just a Degree

At Dickinson, students learn by doing. Whether it's research, internships, community engagement, or global experiences, hands-on learning is a central part of the college’s mission.

Experiential Learning Highlights

92% of students engage in internships, research, or study abroad.
Funded internships and research opportunities, ensuring students can pursue valuable experiences without financial barriers.
A robust Career Center and advising system that connects students with alumni mentors, job shadowing programs, and externships.

One of my favorite examples of this is Dickinson’s College Farm, where students gain hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, participate in farm-to-table events, and even host bonfires and cultural dinners like paella night—a true example of learning beyond the classroom.

Career Preparation: Setting Students Up for Success

Dickinson students don’t just graduate with a degree—they leave with a plan, professional connections, and real-world experience.

Career Readiness & Graduate Outcomes

Shadowing opportunities start as early as the first year, through Dickinson’s externship program.
Internships begin sophomore year, helping students explore career paths.
Graduate school acceptance rates are strong, with impressive numbers for medical school and law school applicants.
A network of engaged alumni, who mentor current students and offer internship and job opportunities.

New Career Initiatives:

Burgess Institute for Leadership & Business: Focuses on financial literacy, professional skills, and career pathways.
Leadership Development Program: Offers students real-world leadership training through workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

These structured career pathways ensure that by the time Dickinson students graduate, they are prepared and confident in their next steps.

Admissions & Financial Aid: What You Need to Know

Application Options

Early Decision I (Binding) – November 15
Early Decision II (Binding) – January 15
Regular Decision (Non-Binding) – January 15

A Commitment to Access & Affordability

Dickinson has been test-optional since 1994, long before it became a national trend.
$60 million in financial aid awarded annually.
Merit scholarships are automatically considered with the application—no separate process needed.

Early Decision: A Great Option for Committed Students

About 44% of the incoming class applies through Early Decision.
Merit scholarship pre-reads are available for students considering ED but concerned about affordability.

Dickinson is committed to making a world-class liberal arts education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

Why Dickinson? A College That Sticks With You

Having worked at multiple institutions, I can say with confidence that Dickinson College is truly special. It’s a place where students are mentored, challenged, and supported, and where they graduate not only with knowledge but with the confidence to make an impact.

This isn’t just a college—it’s a community, a home, and a launching pad for a lifetime of success.

So, whether you’re visiting Dickinson for the first time or are a returning guest, I encourage you to ask questions, engage with students, and experience firsthand what makes Dickinson such a unique and transformative place.

Welcome to Dickinson—a college that stays with you long after graduation.

The Dean Returns to Dickinson!