Self-Governance

When students united to form the Bryn Mawr College Self-Government Association in 1892, the College became the first institution of higher education in the United States to give students responsibility not only for enforcing rules of behavior upon themselves, but also for deciding what those rules should be. It was considered a radical experiment at the time, and is still unusual.

A Unique College Tradition

The College's tradition of respect for students' autonomy and responsibility has created a unique campus environment where students participate in discussion and resolution of the most important issues facing the College — from the alcohol policy to faculty appointments to the College's curriculum.

Mutual Student Respect

Socially, Bryn Mawr students are asked to respect the rights of those around them and to work together to find solutions to problems. Academically, students are given full responsibility for the integrity of their academic work, including original research and self-scheduled exams. These principles are collectively expressed through the Honor Code. The SGA and the Honor Code give students a valuable opportunity to learn about the challenges of democratic government and leadership.