I had a great visit to Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. App State was founded as Watauga Academy in 1899 to increase access to education for people in this remote, mountainous area. It evolved into a teachers' college, and grew tremendously in the 50's and 60's, becoming a part of the UNC system in 1971, staying true to its mission as a rural serving institution.

Appalachian State is deeply committed to the environment. They make Princeton Review's list of "green colleges," they offer over 2000 courses that incorporate sustainability, and they tend to draw students who are very enthusiastic about the outdoors. You can get PE credit for skiing and snowboarding classes, and there are over 50 hiking trailheads within driving distance to campus. Kayaking, whitewater rafting, biking, and rock climbing are also popular, with an indoor climbing wall accessible for practice. One of my favorite things I saw on campus was a truck owned by the university solely devoted to bicycle repair!

There's actually an academic department called "Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment," offering majors in Architectural Technology and Design, Sustainable Building Systems, Construction Management, and Sustainable Technology. The Geological and Earth Sciences department is also very strong, with majors in Environmental Science and Geology, both with multiple interesting tracks to choose from.

There's also a gorgeous arts center, tons of other majors, an Honors College with housing, and the option of an accelerated masters degree in 5 years.

With 17,000 undergraduates, an 83% acceptance rate, D1 athletics, and an all-in out-of-state price under $39K, Appalachian State University is a great option. But keep in mind - although this is North Carolina, it's in the mountains, and winters get very cold! So if you're thinking of the balmy south, you need to head further east or south!