If you’re interested in studying at a college in Boston, Simmons University is a great choice. Not only will you enjoy a unique, women-centered education in leadership, but Simmons is also one of the Colleges of the Fenway (COF).
If you’re not sure what that means, don’t worry: we’re here to tell you all about it.
So, what are the Colleges of the Fenway?
The Colleges of the Fenway are a group of 5 colleges located in or near Boston’s popular Fenway area. Students at each college can attend classes (known as cross-registration) at any of the other Fenway colleges, opening up a whole world of educational opportunities!
Aside from Simmons University, the other Colleges of the Fenway are:
- Emmanuel College (a Catholic liberal arts and sciences school)
- Massachusetts College of Art and Design
- MCPHS (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences)
- Wentworth Institute of Technology (a specialist technical design and engineering school)
What benefits do the Colleges of the Fenway offer?
The Colleges of the Fenway was formed with the aim of improving educational opportunities and enhancing the student experience by sharing their resources and expertise.
Now, from access to a huge range of courses and facilities, to the chance to compete in internal sports events, the Colleges of the Fenway have a lot to offer their students
1. Take classes at other colleges
One of the biggest benefits is cross-registration. Through Simmons’ membership in the Colleges of the Fenway, you’ll have access to 2,500 courses across all 5 institutions — that’s over 1,000 more than if you only took classes at Simmons. In fact, you can even study an entire minor at any of the Colleges of the Fenway!
You can take up to 2 courses a semester at another COF institution for no additional cost, and your credits will be transferred automatically.
By taking classes at another college you’ll be able to explore a wider range of academic disciplines. You’ll also experience different teaching styles, and have the opportunity to make new friends!
2. Get the best of both worlds
At Simmons, you’ll be joining a small, nurturing student community. However, as part of the Colleges of the Fenway, you’ll also be part of something bigger: a network of 20,000 students and more than 700 full-time faculty members with whom to share ideas and inspiration.
This means you’ll get the very best of both worlds — Simmons’ supportive, women-focused environment, and all the benefits of a large-scale academic network.
3. Access shared facilities
Many campus facilities at each of the COF member colleges in Boston are open to all COF students. For example, you’ll enjoy access to all libraries in the Fenway Library Organization, which includes the Museum of Fine Arts, the New England Conservatory and the University of Massachusetts Boston.
You’ll also be able to access other services shared across colleges, such as free WiFi, fitness centers and games rooms.
You can also make cashless payments for purchases at dining halls, cafés and book stores etc. on all 5 campuses, and at participating local restaurants and stores using your Fenway Card.
This means you’ll be able to move between campuses with ease, without having to carry cash or credit/debit cards. It’s easy to reload your card online, and your family at home can top up up your funds too!
4. Enjoy intramural sports and activities
Intramural sports are played against other teams from within the Colleges of the Fenway. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy your favorite sports even if you don’t compete at a national or regional level.
There are intramurals all year round and teams are encouraged to include members from across all 5 colleges. This mean you’ll have plenty of opportunities to join in!
You’ll also be able to get involved in theater and performing arts events at all 5 colleges, and there are nearly 100 clubs and societies open to all COF members too. Your social calendar is about to get 5 times busier!
5. Attend special social events
As well as events organised by the many clubs and societies you can join, the Colleges of the Fenway also arrange several major annual events for all students to enjoy.
For example, you can get to know your new classmates at the COF Block Party in September, or, if you’re staying in Boston for the Thanksgiving period, you can join a free Thanksgiving Luncheon at MCPHS.
Plus if you like movies, you’ll love Campus Movie Fest. It’s the world’s largest student film festival, attracting over 200 participants every year. The top 4 filmmakers even enter a competition to have their work showcased at the Cannes Film Festival!
Study at Simmons University in Boston
These are just some of the benefits of studying abroad at Simmons. Check out the links below to find out more about this innovative institution, and how Kaplan can help you fulfill your study abroad dreams.
If you apply through us, you’ll even receive a guaranteed tuition scholarship!
