Welcome to the Storage Scholars Spotlight series! Every week, we highlight a different school in our network of college storage locations. This week, we're talking about Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Read on to learn more about this historic institution and why it's the perfect place for your summer storage needs! ‍

About Franklin and Marshall College

Situated in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Franklin and Marshall College is a prestigious liberal arts institution educating students for over 230 years. With a student population of just under 2,500, Franklin and Marshall College offers a small, close-knit community where students can form meaningful connections with their peers and professors. The college's 220-acre campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the recently-renovated Ann & Richard Barshinger Center for Musical Arts. With over 60 fields of study, Franklin and Marshall College students have plenty of opportunities to explore their passions and develop their skills. So, whether you're a prospective student, a proud alum, or just curious about this fascinating institution, sit back, relax, and enjoy our deep dive into all things Franklin and Marshall College.

What is Franklin and Marshall College Best Known For?

Franklin and Marshall College is best known for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum and commitment to undergraduate research. The college offers a broad range of academic programs, from interdisciplinary studies and social science majors to cutting-edge programs in biology and biomedical sciences.

Aside from its studies, F&M is known for its lengthy place in American history. Established over 230 years ago, it has a long story to tell, from its connection to its namesake Benjamin Franklin to its merging with Marshall College. Its place in history is known as both the first coed college and the first bilingual college. 

History of F&M

Founded in 1787, Franklin and Marshall College is one of the oldest colleges in the United States. Originally named Franklin College after a generous contribution from Benjamin Franklin, the school was established to provide a liberal arts education to young men and women who sought to become leaders in their communities and also "to preserve our present republican system of government." In 1853, the college merged with Marshall College, another local institution, and adopted its current name.

While Franklin College was one of the first co-educational institutions in the US, it didn't remain that way. It became a male-only college until 1969, when it reopened its doors to women. It was also the first bilingual college in the US, offering studies in both English and German.

Over the years, F&M has undergone many changes and transformations. In the early 20th century, the school started a new aviation program. The college became a pioneer in undergraduate research, with professors encouraging students to conduct original research projects. Today, it is committed to rigorous academic programs, innovative research initiatives, and dedication to diversity and inclusion. Despite its long history, Franklin and Marshall College has always maintained its mission to provide students with a world-class education that prepares them for lives of purpose and meaning.

Famous Alumni

Franklin and Marshall College boasts an impressive list of notable alums, from athletes to politicians and entertainers. It has been the alma mater of Pulitzer Prize winner and Tony Award recipient James Lapine and actor Treat Williams. F&M also boasts alums and politicians Mary Schapiro, William H. Gray III, Barry Finegold (also a lawyer), and Mary Orie. CEO of HBO, Richard Plepler, is also among the college's notable alums. In the sports world, F&M was home once to Mike Dee and amateur boxer Roy Scheider (also an actor).

Undoubtedly, Franklin and Marshall College has trained many notable people during its more than 200-year history! From politics to Hollywood to sports, it has produced graduates who have significantly impacted the world around them. It just goes to show that a liberal arts education can prepare you for anything life throws your way.

Life On Campus

Franklin and Marshall College students don't live in a typical dorm residence. Instead, they take part in a unique approach to college housing and call one of the five college houses their home! The five houses are a unique on-campus experience for the students who attend F&M. The houses are themed, each with its own crest. Students can express their interests in their first year to determine in which house they will reside. Each house is allotted a budget, and students are in charge of that budget and the activities and happenings in their house.  

Students in past years have planned various events with their houses for the rest of the student body to enjoy, such as performances, dances, dinners, discussions, and more. 

In addition to housing, students enjoy Greek Life and many clubs, organizations, and sports teams. Their team mascots, the Diplomats, demonstrate the school pride at F&M.

Life Off Campus

Venture off campus for the day, and you'll get to know the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania–the perfect combination of urban and rural all in one. Whether you are looking for museums or shopping, there is much to do! A truly unique experience for any outsider would be the Amish attractions and the Pennsylvania Dutch Countryside. Tour a farm or an Amish home or get to know the Amish people themselves to immerse yourself into the culture and history of the Amish community first-hand. 

If shopping with locals is your thing, you certainly won't be disappointed with the Rockvale Outlets Shopping Village or the famous Lancaster Central Market (the world's oldest Farmers Market!)

Stroll through historic downtown to visit attractions like the Fulton Theatre and the many museums of Lancaster. No matter your interests, Lancaster has something special just waiting to be explored.

Favorite Traditions

With such a long history, it's no wonder that so many great traditions exist for students at Franklin and Marshall College! 

Flapjack Fest is a beloved tradition that brings professors and students together to enjoy pancakes just before their exams in December. Students enjoy a few hours away from studying while the faculty helps out with the cooking and serving. 

Stressbusters is a similar tradition for students who can't wait for a break from their studies. It takes place the night before the Fest and includes fun activities like a Velcro Wall and delicious food. Students can finish the night with a stress-free massage!

Homecoming Family Weekend is another tradition that brings students and alum together each year! Tailgating, sports (go Diplomats!), and a weekend packed with activities keep the F&M community looking forward to this one every year.

Finally, Springs Arts is a fun tradition that takes place every spring for students to enjoy on campus. Musical performances, food trucks, and fun help kick off the last month of the semester.

Storage Scholars and F&M

Franklin and Marshall College has partnered with Storage Scholars since its early days. It is one of the schools with which Storage Scholars has key access to provide top-notch service to its customers. This means they've teamed up with F&M Residence Life and can access the dorms before students move in at the start of school and after they move out at the end of the year. Campus Co-founders run the campus for a more tailored and personalized experience. 

     Over the summer of 2022, Storage Scholars rolled out its brand new "Ship to School" Program, and Franklin and Marshall College was one of six campuses able to test it out. Students received shipping boxes and supplies at their homes, filled them with their belongings, and shipped them to the Storage Scholars warehouse (located near campus), where they stayed until a week before college move-in. At that time, our talented Co-Founders and their team used their key access to drop off those boxes before students arrived on campus. In addition to shipping boxes from their home, Students could order items from online retailers and have those dropped off. Students and parents raved about the convenience of the program and the efficiency with which it was executed. Kudos to all the student movers for launching a successful Ship to School program. To learn more about Storage Scholars and secure your spot for an upcoming campus move, visit www.StorageScholars.com.

Sources:

https://www.fandm.edu/about/mission-and-history

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_%26_Marshall_College

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