Have you ever wondered why so many college campuses are hilly? It’s not just a coincidence. There are a number of reasons why colleges and universities tend to be built on hills.
1. Natural Defenses
In the past, colleges and universities were often built on hills for defensive purposes. A hilltop location provided a natural advantage in protecting the campus from attack. In the event of an invasion, the defenders could use the hill’s height to their advantage, making it difficult for attackers to reach the campus.
2. Drainage
Another reason why colleges and universities are often built on hills is for drainage. A hilltop location allows for better drainage, which helps to prevent flooding and other water damage. This is especially important in areas that receive a lot of rain or snow.
3. Views
Hilltop locations also offer stunning views of the surrounding area. This can be a major selling point for prospective students, who may be drawn to the beauty of the campus. In addition, hilltop locations can provide a sense of peace and tranquility, which can be beneficial for students who are trying to focus on their studies.
4. Land Availability
In many cases, colleges and universities were built on hills because it was the only land available. In densely populated areas, it can be difficult to find a large enough piece of land for a campus that is not on a hill.
5. Architectural Considerations
Some colleges and universities have intentionally built their campuses on hills for architectural reasons. A hilltop location can provide a dramatic backdrop for buildings, and it can also help to create a sense of grandeur.
There are a number of benefits to attending a college or university that is located on a hill. These benefits include:
- Improved physical fitness. Walking up and down hills can help to improve your cardiovascular health and stamina.
- Reduced stress. The views from hilltop campuses can be calming and stress-reducing.
- Increased sense of community. Hilly campuses can create a sense of community, as students and faculty members often bond over the shared experience of navigating the hills.
- Boosted academic performance. Studies have shown that students who attend colleges and universities that are located on hills tend to have higher GPAs and graduation rates.
While there are a number of benefits to attending a college or university that is located on a hill, there are also some challenges. These challenges include:
- Increased physical exertion. Walking up and down hills can be tiring, especially if you have to do it multiple times a day.
- Accessibility issues. Hilly campuses can be difficult to navigate for people with disabilities.
- Increased risk of accidents. Hills can be slippery, especially in the winter, which can increase the risk of accidents.
There are a number of things that colleges and universities can do to make their campuses more accessible for people with disabilities. These measures include:
- Installing ramps and elevators. Ramps and elevators can make it easier for people with disabilities to get around campus.
- Providing shuttle services. Shuttle services can provide transportation for people with disabilities who have difficulty walking up and down hills.
- Creating designated parking areas. Designated parking areas can help people with disabilities to park closer to their classes and other destinations.
There are a number of reasons why college campuses are often hilly. These reasons include natural defenses, drainage, views, land availability, and architectural considerations. While there are some challenges to attending a college or university that is located on a hill, there are also a number of benefits. Colleges and universities can make their campuses more accessible for people with disabilities by installing ramps and elevators, providing shuttle services, and creating designated parking areas.