For Parents

Creating Well Rounded Students at Champlain College

There is a learning curve to students becoming adults — and for the entire family. Champlain tries to ease that transition by addressing the many facets of human development through our educational approach. In brief, we teach students to integrate three kinds of knowledge: interdisciplinary ideas that range from understanding of self and community to overarching ideals of the western tradition (like capitalism and democracy); a global experience; professional studies and experience; and core competencies for a successful life—from negotiating a lease to financial sophistication and leadership/teamwork.

Parents also appreciate the lasting value of our approach. Champlain students develop their potential now, but they’re also prepared to adapt as professional, personal and economic realities change in the future.

Intellectual growth

From their first day on campus, Champlainers learn to:

• Gain self-knowledge, plus the vision to see “the big picture” and the long-range impact of their decisions and actions
• Develop the ability to reason through ideas, manage relationships, work for the well-being of their community and acquire the skills and practices needed as their careers evolve
• Delve into professional studies in their field of choice
• Build their multicultural competency
• Track their academic progress with the assistance of three personal guides: a faculty member, a Career Services advisor and an Advising and Registration Center staff member

Ultimately, students align what they have learned in their major with their Core foundational studies and a cultural immersion experience through their capstone academic project.

Health

The national dropout rate of 26 percent in the first year of college has raised awareness about the unique transitions freshmen face. To help students adapt successfully to college life, Champlain offers numerous resources and plenty of personal attention. We support their ability to make wise choices by encouraging a healthy lifestyle through our Wellness Program. Champlain’s Student Health Center provides preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic and rehabilitative services. In addition, The Counseling Center at Champlain College offers a full range of confidential mental health services:

• Individual counseling
• Group counseling
• Psychiatric and medication referrals
• Substance abuse treatment referrals
• Academic and physical disability accommodations
• Alcohol and drug education programming

Security

In a Farmer’s Insurance Group study of safe cities nationwide, Burlington ranks among the most secure places to live. Champlain’s campus is equally committed to maintaining a safe environment:

• Campus security is available 24/7.
• All residence halls are locked; only residents have access cards.
• All residence halls are hard-wired to the Burlington Fire Department, which is two minutes from campus.
• A Campus Emergency Notification System and safety protocols are in place.

Life Skills

While students are pursuing academics, a structured series of programs, activities and experiences will foster competencies in four areas through our Life Experience in Action Curriculum

• Clarifying values and self-understanding
• Broadening awareness of community, citizenship, other cultures and global travel
• Learning the fundamentals of career management
• Gaining financial sophistication