Inside the Dam

Inside the Dam is Bluffton University’s blog for prospective students and families exploring what college—and Bluffton—might look like for them.

Choosing a college is a big decision. Through this blog, we share helpful advice, real stories and practical tips to guide students through the college search process and give an authentic look at life at Bluffton.

Here you’ll find posts about:

  • Choosing a major and exploring academic programs
  • Preparing for college classes and campus life
  • Financial aid and paying for college
  • Student experiences and campus traditions
  • Tips for making the most of your college years

Whether you’re just starting to think about college or narrowing down your choices, Inside the Dam is here to help you learn more about Bluffton University and imagine what your own college journey could look like.

What is a Liberal Arts Education?

What is a Liberal Arts Education?

A liberal arts education has nothing to do with which direction you lean politically. A liberal arts education provides opportunities and experiences that can be applied to your everyday life.


How to Balance Work, Family and Going Back to School

How to Balance Work, Family and Going Back to School

Pursuing higher education doesn't have to be unattainable or daunting; in fact, it's totally possible! Here, we've put together some tips on how to balance work, family and going back to school so you can prioritize your personal educational and professional growth.


6 Reasons Why You Should Study Abroad in College

6 Reasons Why You Should Study Abroad in College

Studying abroad is a unique experience where students can work toward their degree all the way across the world. Here are our top 6 reasons why you should consider studying abroad opportunities when picking a college.


How to Live on Your Own in College

How to Live on Your Own in College

The idea of living on your own for the first time may be super exciting, or it may make you feel extremely nervous. That’s ok! Either way, here are our best tips to make living on your own easier once you get to college.


How to Choose a College as an Adult Student

How to Choose a College as an Adult Student

Whether you’re considering an on-campus, online, virtual or accelerated program, here are a few things to keep in mind when you are choosing a college as an adult student.


9 Things to Consider When Finding the Best College for You

9 Things to Consider When Finding the Best College for You

Whether you are just starting your college search or you're ready to select the one school that fits you best, here are nine tips to finding the best college for you.


7 Next Steps to Accept College Admission

7 Next Steps to Accept College Admission

Congratulations! You’ve researched many colleges, sent in your application and been admitted to the college of your choice! Now what? Here are seven simple steps you can take now to accept college admission and make your transition to college go smoothly in the fall.


How to Have a Successful Virtual College Visit

How to Have a Successful Virtual College Visit

Many say the best way to know if a college is right for you is to tour campus in person. This might not always be an option. That's ok! Here are our best tips to help you have a successful virtual visit.


6 Reasons to Get Involved on Campus

6 Reasons to Get Involved on Campus

Getting involved on campus is one of the best things you could do as a first-year student. Here are our top six reasons why you should consider joining extracurriculars in college.


7 Reasons You Should Get a Student Job on Campus

7 Reasons You Should Get a Student Job on Campus

Studies show that students who work on campus earn better grades, learn to manage their time efficiently and are more persistent in their goal to graduate. Here are our top 7 reasons you should get an on-campus job.


How Does College Match Freshman Roommates?

How Does College Match Freshman Roommates?

There are four primary ways colleges match freshman roommates. 1) Based on a student-submitted lifestyle questionnaire. 2) Student choice. 3) Randomly. 4) A mixture of the above.


9 Reasons Why You Should Get Your Masters Degree

9 Reasons Why You Should Get Your Masters Degree

Deciding to get your master's degree is a big step in advancing your career, and there's a lot to consider in the process. Here are our top nine reasons why you should get your master's.


5 Tips for a Successful College Orientation

5 Tips for a Successful College Orientation

More than just another campus tour, at a successful college orientation you will make new friends, register for classes and become acclimated to your campus community.


What if I Don't Like My Roommate?

What if I Don't Like My Roommate?

It’s totally ok to have these worries. In fact, a lot of the same people you will eventually meet on campus are wondering about the exact same things! Let’s take a closer look at the question: What if I don’t like my roommate?


11 Steps to Returning to College as an Adult

11 Steps to Returning to College as an Adult

Trying to figure out what the best next step is to move forward in your career? Thinking about going back to school again? This article walks you through 11 steps to get you started pursuing more education as an adult.


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