One verifiable fact about education is that people learn best when they take what they have learned by study and apply it to a real-life situation. I have recently been made aware of a Chinese proverb which states, "tell me and I'll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I will understand". Paul Smith's College is committed to involving students in the learning process. We were one of the first schools to make this learn-by-doing, hands-on, brains-on, experiential learning method the model for education at the college level, and we are still completely committed to this teaching method today. In fact, each and every one of our programs combines classroom learning with practical field and laboratory experiences. In addition, students are presented with the opportunity to further test their knowledge and skills in an externship with employers in their chosen fields, and for our baccalaureate students, the Capstone course in the senior year allows them to demonstrate to the entire community their newly acquired expertise.
Paul Smith's offers every student the opportunity to learn and develop with the help of truly dedicated faculty and staff members. At Paul Smith's College, you will never be just a number — you are a real person with dreams and goals, both personal and professional, and our faculty and staff are here to help you realize them. They are not only your teachers; they're your advisors, your friends and your loudest cheerleaders.
During your time at Paul Smith's, our incredible campus and state-of-the-art facilities will be your classroom as well as your playground. In addition to the learning opportunities that abound in the Adirondacks' wild spaces, you'll also have every recreational activity imaginable right at your doorstep. The nearby communities of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid also offer a variety of activities year-round, and I encourage you to get involved. From campus clubs and sports teams to community theatre productions and Saranac Lake's Annual Winter Carnival, there is literally something for everyone.
As you begin your journey at Paul Smith's College, I wish you every success and challenge you to make the most of this experience. Education is an adventure — embrace it!
Warmest regards,
John W. Mills, Ph.D.
President