Everybody will have to go through the college research process sooner or later, even if they opt not to go on to college, but most people don’t choose to do what I did. I took a deeper look into the all-women’s college scene. “Why?” you may ask. I say to you, “Why not?”

It has been my theory that women’s colleges deliver a superior education to many, if not most, of the public and private universities, and from meeting students, alumnae and faculty, my theory is not wrong. I have visited four of the 60-plus women’s colleges in the United States: Smith College, Wellesley College, Mount Holyoke College and Bryn Mawr College. Each delivered a unique perspective to the college lifestyle, but they also supported my theory of superior education. Every single woman at these fantastic institutions possesses an extraordinary confidence matched with an incredible intellect that must have been encouraged while they attended these colleges. From my first step onto the Smith campus to my last step out of Bryn Mawr, my enthusiasm to go to an all-women’s college soared. This enthusiasm has not lessened one bit.

I know what you’re thinking now: “But why would you want to go there besides for the education which you can get anywhere? Are you some kind of ultrafeminist?” That, sadly, is a common stereotype of the all-women’s colleges, everyone thinks they are insane feminists or lesbians. But women of every kind of thought-process and culture are at these colleges. Diversity is a big topic, and they take steps to accept students of all cultures, intelligence and attitudes. No one is rejected because of opposing views. You are constantly being challenged to speak up and say what you think even if you are the only one who thinks that one way. Even when I was visiting for the day, I was challenged to speak up and project my views as I am doing right now.

Just think about it. The next time you’re looking for a great education that combines confidence with diversity, look toward the all-women’s colleges. Each has their own amazing uniqueness but each pushes you to be yourself. Open your mind and step beyond the border, I think you’ll be surprised and delighted.

— Lauren Bornstein is a senior at Free State High School.