You may be tempted to think that Principia is simply a proving ground, preparing you for what people call “the real world.” If you find yourself thinking this way, then you may be surprised to learn that there’s no reason to treat Principia College like it isn’t the real world. There are real people, real problems, and real solutions.

Professors demand your finest thinking. You can’t hide in a class of 10. Coaches inspire your most focused and disciplined efforts. When you get to the game field, podium, stage, whatever, you’re there to find dominion over time, space, or any other limitation. Sunday School teachers, but more importantly the eight others in your Sunday School class, expect you to seek answers with them. Friends hold you to your word.

In the classroom, on the tennis court, in the brand new pool or dance studio, you will face and learn to conquer real-world problems with confidence, grace, and a lot of support.

Remember those things called “limits”? Your professors and coaches won’t see them, and after some practice in this real-world version of a proving ground, neither will you.

It’s here. The new College Athletic Complex has been a long time coming. And it’s ready to help you meet your fitness and competition goals.

There’s a six-lane 200-meter indoor track for runners and fitness enthusiasts. For those into the more technical field events, there’s a pole vault pit as well as areas for the other jumps and throws. The two regulation-sized basketball/volleyball courts can be used by varsity athletes or recreational athletes for intramurals. Baseball players are enjoying the batting cage. Of course when the dividing curtains are raised, soccer, baseball, and football players can have a great big space to play during inclement weather.

And whether you’re a swimmer, diver, or just want an aquacizing class, the new eight-lane 40-meter stretch pool with a moveable bulkhead (you can adjust the length of the pool) is a great place to relax (or work out) and cool off. Olympic weights and Hammer Strength Life Fitness equipment are available for the serious athlete.

It doesn’t stop there. The Hay Field House renovations (in the building where our competition gymnasium is located) include major locker room upgrades for both men and women, two multipurpose rooms for dance and other activities, a fitness center with specialized equipment, and a bouldering wall. These spaces will be ready for use in winter 2008.