Mount Holyoke College

Mount Holyoke College, a liberal arts college in South Hadley, Massachusetts, is the oldest women's college in the United States, and the oldest continuing institution of women's higher education in the world.

Traditions

• Disorientation - Affectionately known as "Dis-O," this tradition is the most closely guarded secret at Mount Holyoke. Generally, first-years are kept in the dark about it until it actually takes place (which is why it's not being summarized here!).
• Elfing - Sophomores secretly leave gifts for their chosen Firsties (Freshmen), usually during October.
• Founder's Day - Spending the morning at Mary Lyon's grave.
• Junior Show (also known as J - Show) - Juniors (and a few professors) put the MHC experience into sketch and song, good-naturedly poking fun at the MHC experience. A common feature is a sketch mocking the president and dean of the college, along with well-known professors.
• Laurel Parade - During commencement week, graduating seniors wearing white and carrying laurel garlands parade around the campus. White is a tribute to those who fought for women's suffrage http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/comm/csj/051900/Laurel.html.
• M&C's (or Milk and Cookies) - Each weeknight at 9:30 pm dormitory dining halls open to serve an evening snack.
• Mountain Day - At the sound of ringing bells from Abbey Chapel on a random Autumn morning, all classes are cancelled for that day and many students hike to the summit of nearby Mount Holyoke http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/comm/csj/961004/mtday.html.