F&M Stories

Top 10 Reasons to Apply to F&M

Faculty mentorship. Small, discussion-based classes. Experiential learning. A diverse and inclusive community.

There are many reasons to love Franklin & Marshall College. We welcome you to find yours! The regular decision application deadline is just around the corner. Apply by Jan. 6 and begin to picture yourself here.

You belong here

1. A Place to Belong

A vibrant campus life is a major contributor to your academic experience. From recreational sports to countless campus clubs, there’s a space for everyone on campus (and room to create your own path, too!). 

See social life at F&M

College house dorm
2. College Houses: Your Home Away from Home

Inspired by the models at England's Oxford universities (and popularized by the "Harry Potter" series), our College Houses include residence halls and large, open common areas that serve as "third spaces" for faculty and students to meet for events or informal discussions. 

Explore F&M College Houses

field research
3. Learning Beyond the Classroom

Take on research, strengthen your resume with an internship or immerse yourself in a new culture by studying off campus. At F&M, we take your learning far beyond the classroom.

See your options

Lancaster learning
4. Live and Learn in Lancaster City

F&M's home city of Lancaster offers arts and culture for every taste and preference – all within safe walking distance of campus. Some 550 students participate in local research, internships and service projects in both the city and surrounding county each year.

Discover Lancaster

graduate
5. The True Blue Network

Our network of alumni is eager to help. “I interned at a local company, thanks to an alum who was working there at the time. That turned into my first full-time job after college,” says Juliana Lawrence ’17.

Turn to the Center for Career and Professional Development for free advising, professional development, networking opportunities and programs.

Visit the Career Center

dog park
6. A Dog Park, Arboretum and Nature Trails... Right on Campus

The entire F&M campus has been formally recognized as an arboretum, boasting 1,000 trees from more than 120 different species. Baker Campus and Spalding Conservancy offer field research opportunities just one mile off campus. Dog lovers will love Beau’s Dream Park, located at F&M’s adjacent Buchanan Park. 

Visit campus

luca restaurant
7. The Food Scene 

Lancaster City’s farm-to-table restaurant offerings have earned accolades from Food & Wine and NY Times. But did you know campus offers multiple spots to dine? Favorites include our main dining hall (D-Hall), Diplomatic Cafe, and grab-and-go grill and Asian cuisine. Kosher, international, vegan and organic options are available. 

Take a Bite

connections course
8. A 9:1 Student Faculty Ratio

Want to be more than a face in the crowd? With an average of 18 students per class, our classes are built small so students and professors can engage in dialogue. 

The Liberal Arts Advantage

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9. Go Global: 170 Programs in 45 Countries

We offer more than 170 programs in 45 countries for students looking to study abroad. Off-campus study experiences aren't simply time away from campus; they're meaningfully woven into your entire academic journey at F&M.

EXPLORE OFF-CAMPUS STUDY

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10. Land on Your Feet… No Matter Where Life Takes You!

Within six months after graduation, 92% of the Class of 2025 were either employed or furthering their education. This is higher than the national average, which is typically in the mid-80% range.

Discover how an F&M degree creates pathways to careers you may have never imagined.

Your Launchpad for Success

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