July 10, 2023

Susquehanna University is one of 31 featured colleges in the newly published book 333 Awesome Small Colleges: (that just might save you money) by V. Peter Pitts.

In the reference book, showcasing U.S. colleges with less than 3,500 undergraduate students, Pitts writes, “There is a real ‘family’ atmosphere in these [small] colleges.” He notes that classes at small colleges are often taught by full professors instead of teaching assistants and that students’ interactions with small college professors allow more opportunities for them to excel.

Pitts’ book, geared toward prospective college students and their families, characterizes Susquehanna as a university where academic innovation thrives.

“Susquehanna University is the future-ready institution that prepares students to create their own paths and maximize their unique potential,” as described in a submitted essay for the book chapter. “Invested in cultivating intellectual grounding, active learning and global citizenship for all students, Susquehanna empowers each graduate to lead a successful and meaningful life.”

The chapter on Susquehanna highlights its emphasis on being an engaged, culturally inclusive campus that is grounded in its liberal arts foundation while also stressing real-world experiences and cross-cultural immersion. It also makes note of Susquehanna’s longstanding commitment to access.

Affordability is foundational at Susquehanna. For 2023–24, Susquehanna offered generous academic merit scholarships of up to $42,000 based on an assessment of academic achievement,” the chapter states. “Additionally, need-based awards — contingent on students filing the FAFSA — result in 99% of first-year students receiving financial aid.”

Other mentions include Susquehanna’s 100-plus majors and minors, proximity to the Susquehanna River, campus-powering solar array and sustainability programming, strong alumni network and award-winning study-abroad program.

Pitts is a retired college admissions professional with 42 years of experience helping college-bound students and their parents. He has also published Common Sense Guide to Choosing a College: Making a Case for Small Residential Colleges (2022), a blog and several articles championing small colleges.