Founded in 1780, Transylvania University is a distinguished private liberal arts college located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky. Known for its rich history as the first university established west of the Allegheny Mountains, Transylvania, affectionately known as "Transy" by those who walk its campus, is home to a close-knit community of approximately 1,000 students. Its compact size enables a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, providing an environment conducive to personalized learning and individual attention.
Transylvania University stands out for its pioneering "May term," wherein students delve into a single course for an intensive three-week period, allowing for innovative learning experiences, such as overseas travel courses or in-depth research projects. The university's First-Year Academic Experience is designed to integrate new students into college-level thinking and learning. Transylvania also boasts notable alumni, such as two U.S. vice presidents, and is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, having launched initiatives like the "Green Revolving Loan Fund" to fund energy efficiency projects across campus.
Academically, Transylvania University prides itself on a liberal arts education that prepares students for a variety of career paths. The university supports a vibrant pre-professional advising program that has resulted in extraordinary acceptance rates to medical and law schools, far exceeding national averages. Its community engagement programs are robust, exemplified by the university's partnership with local organizations for service-learning opportunities that enrich both student experiences and the surrounding Lexington community.
Despite its many positive attributes, Transylvania University is not without its challenges. The institution has faced issues with diversifying its student body, reflecting a broader struggle within its regional context. While efforts are underway to cultivate a more diverse and inclusive campus environment, the university continues to grapple with attracting a broader demographic. Furthermore, given its urban location and historic buildings, the university confronts unique difficulties related to campus space and modernization, balancing the need to preserve its historical significance with the demand for contemporary facilities.
