We drove to Greenville, South Carolina to experience Furman University—a small liberal arts college with roughly 2,500-3,000 undergraduates and a lot to offer.
Discovering Greenville, SC
Greenville, named one of the best places to visit by The New York Times, is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This vibrant town boasts:
- Abundant Outdoor Activities: Enjoy biking, hiking at nearby state parks, and soaking in the natural beauty.
- Culinary Delights: A dense downtown area packed with unique, foodie restaurants—so many, in fact, that dining at a different spot each day would take six months.
- Lively Social Scene: Trendy bars with welcoming patios, free street festivals, and live concerts that quickly won us over.
Furman University: A Liberal Arts Gem
Furman University stands out with its expansive 750-acre wooded campus, often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the nation. The campus exudes a peaceful ambiance, enhanced by:
- Scenic Landscapes: A picturesque rose garden, a tranquil lake, an iconic tower, and classic Southern-style red brick buildings.
- Tailored Academics: Small class sizes, involved professors, and excellent advising across all majors.
- Specialized Programs: Particularly noted for its music, theater, environmental science, pre-med/pre-health track, business, and political science programs.
At Furman, students are not just numbers—they truly become part of a close-knit community.
Campus Life and Cultural Enrichment
One of our favorite aspects of Furman is its unique Cultural Life Program. This initiative requires students to attend 32 cultural events (four per semester) as a graduation condition, ensuring they engage with arts, lectures, and performances that enrich their education. This mandatory exposure to cultural events sets Furman apart from many other colleges where such opportunities might go underutilized.
Academic Excellence and Admissions
With an admission rate in the 60-70 percent range and generous merit aid, Furman offers excellent academic opportunities and value. The emphasis on experiential learning—such as the Pathways program, which helps students plan learning beyond the classroom—ensures that students have a well-rounded and engaging college experience.
Considerations: Diversity and Location
One drawback of Furman is its limited diversity. Part of this may stem from its small-town South Carolina location—a politically conservative region that might not appeal to every family. Despite these concerns, my visits to Greenville and Furman have always felt welcoming. The balance of natural beauty, engaging academics, and a vibrant local scene make it a great fit for many students, even if the cultural mix isn’t as diverse as some might prefer.
Final Thoughts:
Furman University offers a remarkable blend of academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and a serene campus environment. While its location in Greenville, South Carolina might raise questions about diversity and regional comfort, the overall experience—ranging from outdoor adventures in the Blue Ridge foothills to immersive cultural programs on campus—makes it a standout choice on any college list.
