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Applied Learning & Research

Smith's wide array of innovative programs and centers, cross-disciplinary initiatives, and internship and service opportunities are designed to enrich the academic experience to help students further explore their passions in real-world pursuits.

Explore Applied Learning

Environment & Sustainability
Community Engagement
Women & Finance
Work & Life
Poetry Center
Kahn Liberal Arts Institute
Design Thinking Initiative
Praxis Program
Lewis Leadership Program

Insight: Inquiry, Ideas & Research

Insight showcases the ideas, the people behind the ideas and the original contributions Smith is making to larger intellectual dialogues through the culture of research and the liberal arts at the college, where a vibrant community of scholars and students exhibit a love of discovery. Here are some recent features.

A large pile of discarded batteries

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Denise McKahn is looking for a sustainable replacement for disposable lithium-ion batteries.

Though it is currently grappling with a catastrophic air pollution crisis, China hopes to redefine its economy and become a dominant player in the world’s green energy future.

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Professor Dan Gardner says China hopes to become a dominant player in the green energy future.

Professor John Davis in the Smith College Museum of Art

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In its earliest years, Smith was one of the foremost institutional patrons of contemporary American artists.

The dark underbelly of perfectionism and its crippling side effects can take a significant toll on the human mind.

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Psychology professor Patricia DiBartolo says perfectionism can take a significant toll on the human mind.

Rocks tell the fascinating story of the landscape of the Connecticut River Valley

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Rocks tell the fascinating story of the landscape of the Connecticut River Valley.

A council of eggheads brought Ireland back from the economic brink.

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A “council of eggheads,” including a Smith professor, brought Ireland back from the economic brink.

The study of zebrafish could shed new light on human ailments

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Michael Barresi’s study of zebrafish could shed new light on human ailments.

Trench warfare in World Way I shaped the Inklings literary group

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How did the horrors of trench warfare in World War I shape the members of the Inklings literary group?

Closeup of the spines of a large collection of books

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What recent books have shaped, altered or defined how Smith professors think about their fields?

Keep Exploring

Smith Scholars

The Smith Scholars Program provides a framework for talented students to spend one or two years working on projects of their own devising.

STRIDE Program

Smith offers some of its finest incoming first-year students a scholarship that includes a paid research position with a Smith professor.

Celebrating Collaborations

With faculty guidance, students present the results of their research, independent study projects and other creative work.