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Lake Forest College is most commonly known for its Business and Commerce program; however, many students also take advantage of the Communications program, as well as the English Language and Literature majors. Students can enjoy a wide selection of majors and academic programs. The atmosphere at Lake Forest presents students with a strong sense of unity, support from faculty and peers, as well as variety. The College presents students with Career Services opportunities that enable them to get a head start on the professional world with internships, work study programs and plenty of individual preparation services such as resume and interview assistance.
Each year, Lake Forest College hosts an extensive Open House and Student Orientation that welcomes new students and helps them to prepare for the school year ahead. Students are encouraged to get involved with as many activities, organizations and services as possible to optimize their college experience and prepare for the professional world. Providing students with a challenging and enriching atmosphere both in and out of the classroom.
School History
Lake Forest College was founded in the mid 1800’s by a small group of Presbyterian ministers seeking a location to build a new community. When established in 1857, the school was originally names Lake Forest University. The campus grounds of the college portray the history of the school over the years – showcasing the various architectures of each time period. It was the intention of the founders to establish a campus that resembled a park-like atmosphere – giving students the serene surrounding to maintain a peaceful and focused setting. Many buildings that were created in during the beginning stages from 1876-1890 are still standing on campus today such as the College Hall and the Patterson Lodge.
Lake Forest College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. However, the teacher education programs are also accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education as well.
The Lake Forest College founders not only discovered and established the school, but the town and community that the surrounds the school as well. In 1856, Almerin Hotchkiss was hired as the architect for the new city, creating the blueprint for what still remains today. Shortly after, the Lake Forest Association was established to carry out and develop 1,200 acres of that blueprint with the intentions of selling the land for the funds needed to build University Park at the center.
The Civil War left Lake Forest College, at that time called Lake Forest Academy, at a standstill in development. However, by the mid 1800s, morale and construction picked up, adding to the existing layout of the academy building, church and the few homes that stood. In the years that followed, the town itself went on to encumber more residences and merchants, social activities and a completed college for local students.
Campus Life
Lake Forest College is situated on 107-acre campus, mere miles away from downtown Chicago. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the surroundings both on and off campus to enhance their experience while attending Lake Forest. Many students enjoy venturing into the various nature walks and reserves located around campus, giving them ample places to relax, catch up on studying and interact with friends, while enjoying the beautiful landscapes. The Mohr Center offers plenty of activities such as pool, ping-pong and computer labs that many students utilize to pass the time in between classes. However, you can always find a crowd at the library or campus bookstore as well. Many organizations and groups host events in front of these buildings to raise awareness for various causes and student leisure. There are over 75 different student operated clubs and organizations to participate in – each enabling students to optimize their skills, social influence and innovative minds to take action in their environments.
Students at Lake Forest College are encouraged to join in and take part in the many traditions that have been passed down through the generations such as the Mud Olympics, Global Fest and the annual Global Fest window Painting. All student events and activities are created to engage and stimulate intellectual and social skills – enhancing campus life as well as student preparation for their professional career. Many students become members of the student government, debate teams and community service groups in order to maintain a proactive impact on society.
Since the majority of students live on campus, Lake Forest offers a variety of accommodations such as several residence halls that are assigned by special interests, majors and athletic groups, apartment style complexes and townhouses. Undergraduate students also have the opportunity to pledge for fraternity and sorority housing as well.
Financial Aid
Lake Forest College remains dedicated to helping students find the best financial aid options to help reduce the stress of out-of-pocket tuition costs. Upon admission, Lake Forest students are each considered for merit-based aid, as well as athletic and artistic scholarships. Traditional FAFSA loans are accepted, as well a NYS TAP loans. In addition to the traditional scholarships and funding, Lake Forest also offers various work-study programs that can alleviate tuition costs for students. Positions are available both on and off campus to accommodate all student scheduling.
The Office of Financial Aid at Lake Forest is available to assist students with loan qualifications and financial aid documents. Staff and faculty members are available to consult and support students, as well as their families to answer any questions they may have regarding tuition and financial aid. Lake Forest is dedicated to providing and maintaining a solid resource for students to make the college experience both educationally and financially enriching.
