While many schools have adopted a looser curriculum, Boston College's core requirements ensure that every student receives the foundations of a liberal arts education. While courses outside of one's major may not be the most interesting, being open to different subjects fosters a fuller, more enriching experience. Having to fulfill core requirements does not preclude one from experimenting with the plethora of electives and graduate-level classes. Professors are accommodating and flexible when a student needs to make up an exam or wants extra help. Computer labs, tutoring, study groups, and online resources bolster learning from day one to finals. The only drawback lies in scheduling - though such problems exist at other institutions, BC's outdated registration system and confusing override method (where students can join a class even after it's full) hamper an otherwise sterling academic environment.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
Boston College has a fantastic student life. It's close to Boston, but not too close, bridging the gap between a quiet, suburban neighborhood and the city's energy. Transportation is inexpensive and efficient, granting students access to the city's museums, internship opportunities, and happening night-life. But leaving the campus is not necessary to relax and have fun. Dorms are spacious, clean, and are all within close proximity of a dining hall, which are open until 2 a.m. on weekends. The food is superb and most students have ample resources on their meal plan to dig in or pig out. Football, basketball, and hockey games are a blast to watch (especially when BC beats Notre Dame). NCAA Division I athletics, club and intramural sports, hundreds of student clubs and activities, plays, concerts, and visiting lectures are all great ways to stay involved. While the university does not allow fraternities or sororities, there is still an active party atmosphere for upperclassmen of the legal drinking age. With all the extracurricular activities and welcoming student body, there is little pressure or need to drink. The university's Jesuit heritage makes it an attractive campus for Catholic students, but the religious persuasion is not at all in-your-face, leaving plenty of space for the religious beliefs of every student.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Tuition stands at over $54,000 a year, making Boston College one of the pricier institutions of higher education. But the university goes to great lengths to provide ample financial assistance to students in need. This year, in light of the recession, the administration cut operating costs to give even more grants and scholarships. The invaluable learning and life-long friends made here are near priceless in comparison to the school's price-tag.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Get involved early on and stay involved. Joining an extracurricular activity is the best way to meet friends and explore something you don't have time to in class. Take up a hobby or take up a cause, student groups help you to find your niche and have fun. And if at first something doesn't work out, try something else. You will only regret the stone you leave unturned.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
This school is great for any type of student. If you're an athlete, the NCAA Division I athletics, club, and intramural sports are perfect. If you're intellectually driven, the Honors Program should challenge. If you're socially outgoing or introverted, you'll meet new people and make new friends.
While many schools have adopted a looser curriculum, Boston College's core requirements ensure that every student receives the foundations of a liberal arts education. While courses outside of one's major may not be the most interesting, being open to different subjects fosters a fuller, more enriching experience. Having to fulfill core requirements does not preclude one from experimenting with the plethora of electives and graduate-level classes. Professors are accommodating and flexible when a student needs to make up an exam or wants extra help. Computer labs, tutoring, study groups, and online resources bolster learning from day one to finals. The only drawback lies in scheduling - though such problems exist at other institutions, BC's outdated registration system and confusing override method (where students can join a class even after it's full) hamper an otherwise sterling academic environment.
Boston College has a fantastic student life. It's close to Boston, but not too close, bridging the gap between a quiet, suburban neighborhood and the city's energy. Transportation is inexpensive and efficient, granting students access to the city's museums, internship opportunities, and happening night-life. But leaving the campus is not necessary to relax and have fun. Dorms are spacious, clean, and are all within close proximity of a dining hall, which are open until 2 a.m. on weekends. The food is superb and most students have ample resources on their meal plan to dig in or pig out. Football, basketball, and hockey games are a blast to watch (especially when BC beats Notre Dame). NCAA Division I athletics, club and intramural sports, hundreds of student clubs and activities, plays, concerts, and visiting lectures are all great ways to stay involved. While the university does not allow fraternities or sororities, there is still an active party atmosphere for upperclassmen of the legal drinking age. With all the extracurricular activities and welcoming student body, there is little pressure or need to drink. The university's Jesuit heritage makes it an attractive campus for Catholic students, but the religious persuasion is not at all in-your-face, leaving plenty of space for the religious beliefs of every student.
Tuition stands at over $54,000 a year, making Boston College one of the pricier institutions of higher education. But the university goes to great lengths to provide ample financial assistance to students in need. This year, in light of the recession, the administration cut operating costs to give even more grants and scholarships. The invaluable learning and life-long friends made here are near priceless in comparison to the school's price-tag.
Get involved early on and stay involved. Joining an extracurricular activity is the best way to meet friends and explore something you don't have time to in class. Take up a hobby or take up a cause, student groups help you to find your niche and have fun. And if at first something doesn't work out, try something else. You will only regret the stone you leave unturned.
This school is great for any type of student. If you're an athlete, the NCAA Division I athletics, club, and intramural sports are perfect. If you're intellectually driven, the Honors Program should challenge. If you're socially outgoing or introverted, you'll meet new people and make new friends.