Why Furman: The Social Perspective

Finding a Place That Feels Like Home

Choosing a college is an exciting yet intimidating decision. It’s not just about choosing your education but also deciding where you’ll call home for the next four years. When you find a place where you truly belong, success becomes so much easier, and you can truly experience what people often refer to as “the best four years of your life.” Since coming to Furman, I can confidently say that this sense of home is shaped by the incredible people and experiences around you. And trust me, Furman is a place that offers a true sense of belonging and home for everyone.

I have noticed on all of my college tours and most others to, that the pressing question is always “why?”. Why did everyone choose this school? What makes it so special? Well, there are many different reasons for many different people. Some people chose Furman for the “Liberal Arts Perspective” or “The Small School Perspective” as you may have read in a recent blog on our page while some may lean more in the direction of social opportunity and involvement. In this blog you will be hearing from two Juniors on their experience and why they chose Furman.

Why Furman: Bella Bilott

Hey friends!! My name is Bella Bilott, and I am a Junior Economics major on the Pre-law track from Greenville, SC.

From the moment I stepped on Furman’s campus, I knew it was special. As someone who thrives on connection and community, I was drawn to the genuine smiles, tight-knit friendships, and overwhelming sense of belonging that Furman radiates. College is about more than just academics—it’s about finding your people too—and Furman makes that so easy! Flash forward to my third year, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped me. Through involvements in Greek Life, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Admissions Liaison, and Club and Intramural Sports, I’ve met some of the most incredible people who constantly uplift and challenge me.

I even got the opportunity to go abroad for a semester to New Zealand with three of my best friends! Furman is truly the kind of place where you’re always meeting new faces but still feel the comfort of a close community. Whether it’s spontaneous trips to the DH (dining hall), cheering on friends at a game, or late-night chats in the library, there’s truly never a dull moment. If you’re looking for a school where friendships feel like family and every day is an opportunity to connect, grow, and make sweet memories, Furman is waiting for you!

 

Why Furman: Patrick Guinee

Hey everyone, my name is Patrick, and I am a junior from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania studying Politics and International Affairs. During my college decision process, I had a lot of factors to consider: academics, financial aid/scholarships, and the school’s social scene. Being a small, liberal arts school, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the social life here at Furman. Luckily, my experience has been great these past three years.

I like to say that Furman is a “small school with big school benefits.” A smaller student body means that I will always say hello to at least one person when walking around campus, whether that be a student, staff, or faculty member. You’re not just a number at Furman. However, we also have Division 1 sports, something typically associated with larger schools. Some of my absolute favorite memories from college took place at Champion’s Grove while tailgating for a football game, or watching Furman men’s basketball in the first round of March Madness my freshman year. 

 

Another great way to enhance your social life at Furman is by getting involved. By joining FUSAB (Furman University Student Activities Board) and my fraternity, I am never at a loss for what to do or who to hang out with on a weekend. Additionally, we are just ten minutes away from downtown Greenville, which provides an excellent social scene at any point throughout the week. At Furman, you can choose how active you want your social life to be; but no matter what, you’re always going to see a friendly face in the crowd. 

Why This Matters:

Being somewhere that you genuinely love with people that you care about is so important. It helps you thrive in your community and be more motivated towards success. Both Patrick and Bella are two of the most kind, motivated, and friendly faces on campus so I hope that their advice is something you can look to when starting your journey here at Furman!

 

-Ashlyn King