City with a Conscience

Vermont, and its largest city, are both earthy and experimental, which creates a utopian location for crafting a college experience. Burlington and Vermont have long histories of cultivating creative expression, accessible governance, tolerance and diversity, and respect for the natural world. Burlington's character seems to rub off on the UVM student experience.

Vermonters — past and present — often earn reputations for changing the world. Some notable names:

Influential Vermonters of the Past

Ethan Allen (early American revolutionary and leader of the Vermont Republic)
Calvin Coolidge (former U.S. president)
George Perkins Marsh (father of modern conservation movement)
John Dewey (philosopher, psychologist, educational reformer)
Robert Frost (poet)

Modern-Day Neighbors

Howard Dean (Democratic National Committee Chairman, former U.S. presidential candidate)
John Irving (author, "A Prayer for Owen Meany")
Katherine Paterson (author, "Bridge to Terabithia")
Trey Anastasio (founding member of Phish)

Culture of Change

Folks in Burlington and Vermont like to think they walk the walk in terms of making the world a better place, and the mutually beneficial relationship between the city and campus means students support that mission alongside permanent residents.

Burlington is known for …

Being a learning laboratory: The accessibility of thriving small businesses (home to Burton Snowboards, Magic Hat Brewing, Vermont Teddy Bear, Ben & Jerry's, Seventh Generation products, and many more) gives students opportunities to intern and obtain hands-on experience. The greater Burlington area boasts quality schools in which to student teach, and this socially conscious town has no shortage of non-profit organizations where students exercise their service-learning, community-minded muscles.

A history of free thought: There's a reason Burlington attracts artists and entrepreneurs: Vermont's long history of free-thinking and commitment to social justice continues today. Historic examples: In 1777, Vermont was the first colony to outlaw slavery. During the Civil War, of the 37,000 eligible to fight, about 34,000 volunteered.

Stewardship of the environment: We're called the green state for a reason. Thought of by many as the birthplace of the modern conservation movement, Vermonters remain an environmentally conscious lot. The signs are there: Hybrid docking stations outside of Burlington's cooperative market; biodiesel buses chugging up and down College Street; many local businesses pursuing alternative energies.

Its socially conscious vibe: You don't have to wander far on the Church Street Marketplace to see the words fair trade, peace, justice, local, organic, etc. Burlington has a welcoming reputation for trying to do right by all, and people who visit or dwell often share that mission.