Middlebury and its Febs History of Mutual Benefits

Author: Emily Berg

It has been exactly 30 years since the first Febs enrolled at Middlebury College. Over time, the growing population of Febs demonstrated students' desires to explore studies beyond the academic realm. Additionally, the continued popularity of the program reflectsthe mutual benefit between students and the College.

Many applicants view the Feb program as an opportunity during their time off to explore various pursuits from acting to volunteer work to study abroad. Tim Connelly '04.5 spent his semester off in Australia. He praised the program as "an opportunity to take some time off, learn how to be independent or do something unique."

"Febs know how to take things a little bit slower," he added. Connelly said he believed that Febs' experiences are brought along to Middlebury and "enhance the school."

A decline in spring enrollment in the late 1960s and early 1970s inspired the program's creation. Off-campus studies, internships and other opportunities drew students away from Middlebury each spring. To compensate for the subsequent decrease in revenues and to fill empty beds, Former administrators Erica Wonnacott and Fred Neuberger spearheaded what is now known as the Feb program. In January of 1971, 30 first-year students matriculated. February, the start of second semester, proved to be a more natural time to start off college, and in 1972, the first Feb class enrolled. The program has thrived ever since.

"It is the most efficient way to admit more students," commented John Hanson, director of admissions. Approximately 100 Febs enrolled for the spring semester of 2002, and the admissions office aims to admit 115 into the class of 2006.5.

The target number of Febs does not depend on interested applicants, but on the number of available spaces available each spring, Hanson explained. The growth of the Feb program conveniently compliments the apparent rise in off-campus study among upperclassmen. There is no official research done in this area, and the records regarding Febs are desultory. However, Hanson noted that as a trend the number of applicants willing to delay college for a semester is on the rise.

Excitement and pride seem to have risen with the Feb population. This past week Feb cheers rang all over campus, often coming from enthusiasts in wacky attire. As the Feb program grows with Middlebury, the party continues.