Graduate School

Beyond the Gates

Rhode Island was the first of the thirteen colonies to declare independence from England and has historically fostered a strong spirit of independence among its citizenry – the majestic State House is topped with a statue of “the Independent Man.” 

Brown Medical School

Brown’s medical school, founded in 1975 and renamed the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, helps attract world-class doctors and significant federal research dollars to Rhode Island. Brown, the third largest employer in the Providence area, also helps to develop new businesses through various partnerships with the state.

Brown and Providence’s Public Education System

Brown also works closely with leaders of Providence’s public education system and human service agencies to leverage the resources of the University’s centers and programs in support of our city’s citizens. The Annenberg Institute for School Reform and the Education Alliance are among the many Brown-affiliated organizations that offer assistance and resources to public schools.  

Providence and Beyond

Even the most involved, excited, and intellectually intrigued students often need to leave the confines of the campus. A place to wander for a sunny afternoon, a private spot to picnic, and a campsite for a long weekend are resources not usually mentioned by academic advisors and course guides. Don’t worry, Rhode Island is perfect for students who need a break and for people who like to explore on their own.

You may wish to explore many of the historic sites and national parks of the region. A favorite Saturday getaway is Newport, Rhode Island, with its waterfront nightlife and its many restored historic mansions. Block Island, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Island are perfect weekend retreats. Boston, only 50 minutes away, has something for everyone: the Faneuil Hall Marketplace area, the New England Aquarium, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Museum of Science, the traditional history of the Freedom Trail, and Symphony Hall. Nature lovers and skiers will head for Vermont and New Hampshire for the foliage, the snow, the maple syrup, even the apple-picking. 

Providence Monthly carries listings of local music, art and dramatic performances, as well as articles of general interest. The Providence Journal, also has extensive entertainment listings. Rhode Island Monthly magazine is also a good bet. If you are wondering about a specific event, check the Rhode Island Tourism Division website or GoProvidence.

Thayer Street and the East Side

Brown is nestled in the midst of some interesting neighborhoods. College Hill, located on the East Side of Providence, is known for its large, historic homes and pretty residential streets. It’s a great place to bicycle, jog, or just take a walk. Blackstone Boulevard, about a mile east of the campus, is a wonderful place to run (1.7 miles one way); a packed soil walking and jogging path runs the length of the street on the landscaped center median.

Fox Point, south of the campus, has a strong Portuguese identity and character. The Wickenden Street area, rapidly moving upscale, is the heart of this community and offers a variety of stores in which you can buy fresh Portuguese sweet bread, antiques, coffee, and hardware supplies – or eat at an eclectic assortment of eateries.

Facts About Rhode Island

Facts About Rhode Island
Founded: 1636
Founder: Roger Williams
Declared Independence from Great Britain: May 4, 1776
Miles of coastline: 400
State bird: Rhode Island Red (chicken)
State tree: Maple
State flower: Violet
State mineral: Bowenite (similar to jade)
State stone: Cumberlandite (found only in RI)
U.S. Senators: Sheldon Whitehouse, Jack Reed
U.S. Representatives: David Cicilline ʼ83, Seth Magaziner
Governor: Daniel McKee
Mayor of Providence: Brett Smiley