Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges

Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges
by Loren Pope

Reviewed by Leigh Anne Spraetz

This book offers an overview of 40 colleges that continuously change students’ lives and help them to develop into the young self-realized adults they are capable of becoming. Loren Pope, who sadly passed away a year ago, dedicated his accomplished work life in finding these schools by evaluating them through a highly selective set of criteria beyond just academics. He was disturbed by the perceived obsession our nation has with academic aptitude, what many would compare to rankings, verses the emphasis on “student achievement, satisfaction with life and the merit of a human being.” I’m glad to know Mr. Pope left behind a dedicated team to continue his mission. Each time I tour one of these colleges I come away wistful, wishing I could have a “do-over” semester at each one. In my 13 years as a licensed professional counselor who specializes in college and career counseling, I’ve urged many students to apply to these schools when they appeared to offer the right fit. Each time I have had a student attend, they have been ecstatic with the school and have further developed their curiosity for learning, sense of self, leadership skills and community involvement. For students wanting to find their own path and not follow the herd from their high school, this book is a must-read. Go to www.ctcl.com to find details for their college fairs, often held in Atlanta.

The purchase of this recommended book using the link above will contribute to the funding of The Summit Society and benefits our ministry of care for those in need.