アメリカの大学のアドミッション担当者にインタビューを行い、各大学の特色や学生生活、出願などに関するお話を伺います。
今回は、アイオワ州のリベラルアーツカレッジである グリネル大学 を取り上げました。すべて英語で掲載していますので、最後まで頑張って読んでいきましょう！
Established in 1846, Grinnell College is one of the best liberal arts colleges in the USA, with a truly open curriculum that allows students to design their own academic journey under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
This month, YGC interviewed Mr. Jonathan C. Edwards, the Director of International Admission.
Fast Facts
| Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Grinnell College | Grinnell, Iowa, USA |
| US News Rank | Times Higher Ed. Rank |
|---|---|
| #19 National Liberal Arts Colleges | #69 (in 2022) |
| Number of Students | Percentage of International Students | Student-to-faculty Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| 1,750 | 20% | 9:1 |
| Average SAT® Scores | Mean TOEFL iBT® Score |
|---|---|
| 1440–1530 | 107 |
Interview
I. Academics
- What are your most popular majors or areas of study?
We have many students who are interested in Computer Science and Economics. These are two of our strongest programs. Recently, our Japanese students have gone into graduate study in fields like psychology and biochemistry. We are committed to academic diversity and look for that in students’ applications.
- Do you emphasize theoretical or practical learning? Are classes mostly lectures, discussions, or labs?
Certainly, there’s a combination of all, but our primary methodology is discussion-based. Because we have an open curriculum, we encourage students to take introductory classes they’ve never experienced before. For example, if a student never got to take psychology in high school, but thinks they may be interested in it, they can take a class at Grinnell.
Our programs have lab work, projects, group presentations, and so on. We want our students to be able to talk about their research to any audience. At the end of their studies, a Grinnellian scientist should be able to introduce their research to a non-expert and secure their understanding and support.
Grinnell is in a fortunate position given our 3-billion-dollar endowment. It enables our 1,700 students to afford an experiential education. We can support students in unpaid internships, send them to study abroad, and even offer research stipends. It’s very empowering.
II. Admission
- What does your ideal Japanese applicant look like?
Well, we try not to stereotype, but I guess I would say a non-traditional student. Students from Japan are our 4th-largest represented country. I’ve been working in admissions for 27 years. Of course, we want academically capable students. But we want to know more. What else are they bringing to campus? On a small campus, one person can make a huge difference! Students don’t need to have 50 high school activities or have won a certain number of awards. What we want to learn about is their attitude, their positivity, and their openness.
- What part(s) of an application (e.g., personal statement, letters of recommendation, volunteer experience, grades, test scores, etc.) do you place particular importance on?
Since Grinnell is a small school, we often conduct interviews and really dig into students’ personal statements. We ask almost all of our international applicants to take part in an interview.
- Do you use the Common Application? Do you require supplemental essays?
We do use the Common Application. We don’t have a required supplemental essay, but we do have an optional one. But you know, in admissions, when anyone says something’s optional, it’s not really optional.
This year’s prompt is:
Grinnell’s core values include supporting a diverse community that is respectful, egalitarian, and committed to the common good. How might your background, respect for the lived experiences of others, and/or eagerness to be exposed to new perspectives equip you to thrive at Grinnell and serve the common good?
For international students, the Common Application personal statement and the supplemental essay are a great way to use your voice, especially if you can’t visit our campus in person.
III. Financial Aid
- Do you offer scholarships and other financial aid to international students?
Yes. We are need-aware, so when we admit students, we intend to meet their demonstrated need. Also, we are one of about 25 no-loan schools in the USA.
Students often fear asking for aid will harm their chances of admission. Technically, yes. But just be honest. Have a genuine conversation with your family. Remember, Grinnell is #9 in the US for Best Value Schools.
IV. Student Life
- What kinds of on-campus support are available to international students?
International students have access to all student resources as well as the Office of International Student Affairs. OISA runs the International Pre-Orientation Program every year to support incoming international students. Students also have the opportunity to apply to be hosted by members of the Friends of International Students in Grinnell, Iowa. My family has hosted international students often!
- What are your most popular student clubs and organizations?
Our International Student Organization is one of the biggest student organizations on campus. They host an annual showcase of all kinds of talents! One year, almost 40 members of the Japanese Student Association performed a J-pop song and dance. There are also academic clubs, film clubs, choirs, as well as political groups and religious groups!
V. After Graduation
- How many of your students graduate with a four-year degree? How many secure a job after graduation? What about graduate, law, or medical school?
Nearly all of our students finish their degrees in four years. About 60% of graduates go directly into the workforce. 20% enroll in graduate or professional schools. Around 10% of our graduates go into service with the Peace Corps or Teach for America. Basically, our international graduates leave Grinnell able to find employment in the US or abroad.
- What careers do your alumni pursue after graduation? Who are some notable alumni?
One of our most famous alumni is comedian and actor Kumail Ali Nanjiani, who has appeared in Disney, HBO, and Hulu movies and TV shows. Another name you may recognize is Nathaniel Borenstein, the co-inventor of the microchip and co-founder of INTEL.
VI. Other Questions
- Why are you passionate about Grinnell College?
I live right across from campus. I am very appreciative of how the school and community intertwine. It’s unpretentious. You can always find a way to connect with others. Grinnellians are curious and always want to learn from each other. The campus and community are small, so you have to build strong relationships.
※TOEFL®はETSの登録商標です。このコンテンツはETSの検討を受けまたはその承認を得たものではありません。
