Eckerd will definitely be the best college experience you'll ever have. You'll learn a lot, both academically, and about yourself. There's a reason everyone calls it summer camp.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
I recommend attending the Prospective Student events; they let you spend a few days on campus so you can get to know what it's really like, including sitting in on a few classes and going to some events. Don't be intimidated by everyone--we've all been there and everyone is friendly and willing you help you if you need it!
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
The adjustment from high school to college is going to be a challenge at first, but the small class sizes make it a lot easier. The professor's actually know your name and are willing to help you with anything you need.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
The dorms aren't in the greatest condition, but they're honestly not that bad--it adds to the college experience. As far as everything else goes, everyone in the dorms form a huge bond with each other and always find something to do. That's not to say you can't go hang out with people in other dorms--everyone does, but it's nice to know you don't have to go too far to find some friends.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
I was glad that Eckerd didn't have the traditional fast food menus that most colleges and universities have. There was a pretty good selection, although the vegetarian options were pretty narrow. Overall the food was okay, and there were enough healthy options that no one gained the freshman 15.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
If you like the beach, this is the school for you. They have a private beach we call South Beach that overlooks the gulf, and it's absolutely beautiful. They also have what's called The Waterfront, where you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, windsurfers, canoes, and sailboats, as well as camping and fishing gear.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
I think the Waterfront program definitely makes up for the tuition expenses, providing you take full advantage. The school also holds frequent events where they bring in comedians or bands such as Hello Goodbye.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Every year before finals week, the schools holds what is known as Kappa Karnival, where they fill a big empty field with all sorts of carnival rides and games, along with free food and drinks. Some people take the carnival part literally and dress up in all sorts of crazy outfits, others come in their usual attire. It's a great way to blow off steam right before finals!
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Everyone at Eckerd is very laid back and relaxed. It's pretty easy to find your balance between social and academic life [most people actually do homework on the beach or the docks], but this isn't your typical brainiac school--we like to have fun!
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
They have everything from the Scooba Diving club to Dumbledore's Army, Hillel club to the Improv. group [my personal favorite]. You name it, they have it. Aside from clubs, they have all sorts of activities such as Coastal Cleanups, the Splash Bash, triathlons, and lots of really fun classes at the gym!
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
Campus Safety is very good at responding to calls. I would say the only downside is that the campus doesn't have the blue lights or other poles located throughout campus that you can call from, but Eckerd is very safe so there's really no need to worry.
Eckerd will definitely be the best college experience you'll ever have. You'll learn a lot, both academically, and about yourself. There's a reason everyone calls it summer camp.
I recommend attending the Prospective Student events; they let you spend a few days on campus so you can get to know what it's really like, including sitting in on a few classes and going to some events. Don't be intimidated by everyone--we've all been there and everyone is friendly and willing you help you if you need it!
The adjustment from high school to college is going to be a challenge at first, but the small class sizes make it a lot easier. The professor's actually know your name and are willing to help you with anything you need.
The dorms aren't in the greatest condition, but they're honestly not that bad--it adds to the college experience. As far as everything else goes, everyone in the dorms form a huge bond with each other and always find something to do. That's not to say you can't go hang out with people in other dorms--everyone does, but it's nice to know you don't have to go too far to find some friends.
I was glad that Eckerd didn't have the traditional fast food menus that most colleges and universities have. There was a pretty good selection, although the vegetarian options were pretty narrow. Overall the food was okay, and there were enough healthy options that no one gained the freshman 15.
If you like the beach, this is the school for you. They have a private beach we call South Beach that overlooks the gulf, and it's absolutely beautiful. They also have what's called The Waterfront, where you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, windsurfers, canoes, and sailboats, as well as camping and fishing gear.
I think the Waterfront program definitely makes up for the tuition expenses, providing you take full advantage. The school also holds frequent events where they bring in comedians or bands such as Hello Goodbye.
Every year before finals week, the schools holds what is known as Kappa Karnival, where they fill a big empty field with all sorts of carnival rides and games, along with free food and drinks. Some people take the carnival part literally and dress up in all sorts of crazy outfits, others come in their usual attire. It's a great way to blow off steam right before finals!
Everyone at Eckerd is very laid back and relaxed. It's pretty easy to find your balance between social and academic life [most people actually do homework on the beach or the docks], but this isn't your typical brainiac school--we like to have fun!
They have everything from the Scooba Diving club to Dumbledore's Army, Hillel club to the Improv. group [my personal favorite]. You name it, they have it. Aside from clubs, they have all sorts of activities such as Coastal Cleanups, the Splash Bash, triathlons, and lots of really fun classes at the gym!
Campus Safety is very good at responding to calls. I would say the only downside is that the campus doesn't have the blue lights or other poles located throughout campus that you can call from, but Eckerd is very safe so there's really no need to worry.