Reviews
Hardin-Simmons University
Hannah from Dayton, TX
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Hardin-Simmons University is a warm, welcoming and family-based school that has the goal of being a family in Christ. The campus is not so big that you are overwhelmed, and not so small that you know everyone and see the same people every day. The staff is kind and willing to help you with whatever problems you may have and work to make the transition to college and then into the real world smooth.
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Tips for prospective students
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College is a very different experience and can be a huge change in one's life, so any advice I would give is this: let the college you choose be the one that feels most like home. You want the school you attend to be an environment that you are comfortable in and can adapt to easily. Hardin-Simmons was the perfect match for me because every time I visited, I met people that were genuinely kind and caring and were honest with me about their experiences. Basically, I felt like I was running into old friends and were catching up with each other.
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Academic Rigor
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College classes can be a challenge, and the professors will not baby you here, but they are also very willing to work with and help you. The professors push you to reach high goals and be the best you can be, and are willing to help you every step of the way.
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Dorm Life
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Dorm life can be a little hard when you are with the same people all the time, but if you keep an open mind and you are willing to compromise and work with your roommate and neighbors, it can be the best part of college.
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Food and Dining
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The two meals I have in our cafeteria are some of my favorite parts of the day. I have nutritious food, time to relax and hang out with friends, and sometimes a little entertainment. It is always nice to enter such a warm environment where I can stop for a while and eat good food.
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What to do for fun
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There are many student activities going on every week that are always fun to do, but even if the campus gets old, there are tons of things to do in Abilene that are college student budget-friendly.
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Bang for the buck
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I definitely feel like I have gotten what I paid for. I have worked hard to be able to attend this school, and through all of this, there has never been one moment where I regretted coming here.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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There are some crazy and strange traditions here on campus but it is a lot of fun to join in on them. It is almost cult-like but not in a creepy way. Being here and participating in the different events makes you feel like you are a part of something great.
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Great for these types of students
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This school is perfect for students who are looking for a smaller atmosphere where you get to know your professors and classmates on a deeper level and a good, Christian environment that is encouraging and uplifting.
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Clubs and Activities
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There are many clubs and activities to join that will keep you busy. These make it easier to make new friends you might not meet otherwise, and give you a great study break to relax and take a breather.
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Greek Life
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Because this is a private university, the social and service groups are local and unique to Hardin-Simmons along with a few national groups that are academic or service based. While these are organizations are all different, each student can find a group that meets their interests.
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Campus Safety
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Hardin-Simmons is an open campus but does not slack off when it comes to the safety of their students. There are emergency phones located in each parking lot, and campus police who work specifically for Hardin-Simmons and are on the clock 24/7 along with lights that illuminate the campus like Christmas. There has never been a moment that I have felt unsafe or in danger while walking around campus during the daytime or nighttime, which definitely makes my parents feel a lot better.
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Michael from Cedar Hill, TX
a current student here
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Am learning a lot
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The learning environment is excellent here. The student to professor ratio is considerably lower than that of other colleges and universities, so students can actually have access to the professor and build genuine relationships with them. I feel that students can learn whole lot better with a smaller class because being in a class of 500 people is so much more intimidating than being in a class of 15 to 20 people. Most of the classes I am taking are intellectually engaging. I highly recommend high school students applying here to also apply for the Honors Program. Being a part of the Honors Program has developed my cognitive skills and has taught me how to think differently about important issues in our society.
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Am enjoying being here
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Being a small school, Hardin-Simmons makes everyone feel like one big family. The university encourages students to get plugged into campus organizations and social groups on campus. I enjoy being a part of something big, and I do not feel like a number here. Making friends is so easy here, and mostly everyone you meet will have a smile on their face and is ready to strike up a conversation with you.
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Bang for the buck
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Tuition may be a bit high, but the education you receive is totally worth the money you pay. The university offers many scholarships, so paying for college is not so difficult to do. I have a university scholarship which covers almost all of my tuition and other costs such as my meal plan and my housing costs.
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Tips for prospective students
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In general, don't be afraid to apply to college. For prospective students thinking about applying to Hardin-Simmons, don't get turned off by the school because of it's small size. The small student population allows incoming students to feel at home here. I have found a family here at Hardin-Simmons among my close friends. I highly encourage students to apply to the Honors Program at Hardin-Simmons. If you get into the Honors Program, you get another scholarship added to the university scholarship you will probably receive when you apply to the university. Hardin-Simmons is a great place to be. The Christian atmosphere is very inviting, and you feel like you are home here.
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Great for these types of students
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Hardin-Simmons is great for students who are passionate about God. The university has an amazing Christian atmosphere. It is also great for students who do not want to go to a huge public university. The small student population is great for students who want to get plugged into social clubs and campus organizations. I believe that anyone who applies here can find a place to fit in.
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Isabel from Grand Prairie, TX
a past student here
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Did learn a lot
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The professors here are fantastic! They are willing to meet with students outside of class and want to see the students succeed!
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Did enjoy being here
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I'm a Cowboy Band ex and miss all the fun I had performing at football and basketball games as well as in parades throughout Texas. The campus is beautiful, teachers are awesome and there is a lot to offer students.
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Bang for the buck
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Compared to other Baptist universities in Texas, Hardin-Simmons is one of the more affordable choices. Of course as a student, I would have greatly appreciated lower tuition rates, but for the education, class size and professionalism of the profs, definitely worth it!
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Tips for prospective students
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Be a diligent student. Research your opportunities, especially before getting into debt at a private university. Take full advantage of your professors because they care for you and seeing you succeed!
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Great for these types of students
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Students looking for a smaller campus, those looking to get involved through campus life and enjoy a top-notch education.
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Sally
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Hardin-Simmons is a great Christian University with many great professors and advisors who want nothing more than to see you succeed. HSU has a beautiful campus and tons of places outside that you can sit under a tree and study and it is so relaxing. Also the other students are great and are always there when you need something.
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Tips for prospective students
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Apply as early as possible to get more scholarship opportunities because the school is pretty expensive. Also be sure to sign up for New Student Orientation (NSO) and participate in all its' events you will not regret it.
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Academic Rigor
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Academics are very important here at HSU including to coaches. As every other school you have your hard classes and your easy classes but all the classes are well taught and professors are always willing to help you in anyway they can.
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Dorm Life
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Dorm life is the best! You meet so many people and have fun movie nights and cook outs. The dorms them self are nice and very clean, no bugs. Some complain that some of the dorms are too small but I believe they are all a good size.
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Food and Dining
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The Cafe is actually really good. There are plenty of varieties in food from the grill to the sandwich line you will always find something you like. On top of that the desserts are the bomb.
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What to do for fun
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On campus there is always something to whether you just want to hang in the POD or down in the basement playing pool, bowing, or all sorts of video games. Also there are always intramural games going on that you can get a team together and compete in.
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Campus Safety
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Campus police are always driving around and making sure that everything is going as it should and you can always have and officer escort you to your dorm if you feel uneasy about walking there by yourself.
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Kyle from Abilene, TX
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Fast, Christian, Fun
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Tips for prospective students
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Pick a time of your day dedicated to studying. ALWAYS GO TO CLASS :)
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Academic Rigor
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All classes are led by doctors so it's fairly intense.
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Dorm Life
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In NIX Hall we have a pretty fun time especially when the whole school plays Humans VS Zombies!
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Food and Dining
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There is a wide choice to choose from including hamburgers, fajitas, grapes, salad, pietas, crepes and much more! The burgers however are sometimes old.
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What to do for fun
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Hangout with friends, color, read, write, take bathes, and work.
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Bang for the buck
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Hardin Simmons is expensive however the educational and academic value is great. All the professors are nice warm and welcoming and more importantly they know what they are talking about.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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Humans VS Zombies is a game we play with anyone who wants to join. We have dammit the dog celebrations as well.
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Great for these types of students
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Red, yellow, black, white, shy, outgoing, fun, boring, everyone should be a part!
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Clubs and Activities
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There are so many things that you can get involved with it's unreal. Whether it's joining a social group, student council, International students, honors, or student activities there's something for everyone. The list can just go on and on.
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Greek Life
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There are many social groups such as Zeta Chi, Theta Alpha Zeta and Tri Phi there is something for everyone as well.
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Campus Safety
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We have the campus police driving around at all times, so it's safe and secure.
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Beth from Abilene, TX
a current student here
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In three sentences
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I have made many friends, not only through New Student Orientation, but through my major and extracurricular activities. The professors are helpful in every way and often times will even give you their cell phone number to contact them at any time. The classes are challenging and push you to be the best student you can be.
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Tips for prospective students
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Try to come in with hours ahead of time and be sure to make friends in and outside of your major.
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Academic Rigor
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The classes are definitely rigorous, but in a healthy, productive way. The teachers push you to give %100, and I know I have to really push myself to make a grade I am happy with.
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Dorm Life
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I love living in the dorms. It's a miniature community and there is always someone to talk to, watch tv with, or study with. Be sure and leave your door open when you can, I promise you'll make more friends that way!
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Food and Dining
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The dining hall is a fun community place to be. I am happy with the selection of food, and the workers are very, very kind and are not hesitant to build a friendly relationship with you.
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What to do for fun
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I enjoy spending time in the basement and chatting with friends in the pod. Being an art major, I love spending time in the art building, making art and being around friends.
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Bang for the buck
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While Hardin Simmons is expensive, and my family struggles to make each payment, we continue to push forward in this investment because my education is quality and my time is not wasted at HSU. I love this school, no matter how much it costs me.
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Tess from Mission, TX
accepted here and planning to attend soon
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In three sentences
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Hardin Simmons University is a 10! The atmosphere, people and opportunities available here are dynamic. Its one of the best learning environments that I have been around.
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Tips for prospective students
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If you are planning to apply or have already applied, I suggest going to the Winter Preview and Early Registration events available to you. I have met most of my professors, incoming freshmen and connected with my roommate. Also, be ready to participate in whatever activities which are available to you.
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Academic Rigor
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As a Theory and Composition Major, I have been able to experience a little bit of the academic side of this school. It seems challenging, but not impossible. And the challenge is welcome!
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Dorm Life
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I love Behrens hall, the freshman dorm. Its nice and the students who stay there seem to welcome you in as soon as they see you. And Lange Hall, the upper classmen dorm is so spacious. Its older, but it has character and alot of study space.
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Food and Dining
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School food is school food. But I was surprised to see that the cafeteria features a large variety of foods and they are very appetizing!
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What to do for fun
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There is a large variety of clubs, sports and activities available on campus. From horse back riding to acapella groups, there are so many opportunities to get involved and have some fun! The basement, the featured gaming center, is smaller but fully equipped for black ops, bowling and Internet splurges.
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Bang for the buck
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This college is a private school, so its a little expensive if you compare it to a community college. However, if you have good grades or a good record of volunteerism or sports, you are able to get a scholarship and other monies which will cover the bulk of your education. I have received most of my tuition and other expenses in full.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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I haven't gotten to see as many traditions as I've heard about. For example: A girl on campus walked into her room and found her dog had died. She says, Oh dammit. So they buried her dog, who everyone loved, by the bridge in the front of the campus. Inscribed on his tombstone are the words, Here lies Dammit.
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Great for these types of students
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There is a variety of majors available at HSU, but the ones which I found the most common were sciences, theology and ministry, and the arts. An odd mix, but great in its own right.
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Clubs and Activities
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There are more clubs available at HSU than I could survey during the days which I spent on campus, but the ones I did get a chance to see at work were fantastic. There are music groups, photography, student government organizations, book studies and even more. Each seems to be an inviting place.
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Greek Life
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After talking with a friend who was kind enough to show me around campus, she put me in mind of what it takes to be a pledge at HSU. Full of kind and respectful societies, Greek Life at HSU is not easy, but has its rewards.
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Campus Safety
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My mother, the true snoop that she is, never allows any of us to go anywhere without knowing whether or not its safe. And after searching and asking alot of questions, she found that its a very safe place.
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Hayley from Flower Mound, TX
a current student here
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In three sentences
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I love Hardin-Simmons University. It is a beautiful campus filled with wonderful people. I would choose to go here again if I could.
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Tips for prospective students
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Visit the campus!
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Academic Rigor
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It is a testing program! But the student to teacher ratio is small, and the professors are always available to talk!
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Dorm Life
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Dorm life is safe and easy!
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Food and Dining
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The Caf at HSU was recently remodeled and the food is great.
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What to do for fun
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Spend time with people and go to the mall of Abilene.
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Bang for the buck
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I love HSU, I just wish I wasn't paying so much for it.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
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There is a pond on campus with water fountains in it, and it is by far my favorite place to be.
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Great for these types of students
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Students who want to enjoy college in a healthy way.
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Clubs and Activities
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HSU has social clubs and plenty of opportunities to join them.
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Greek Life
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The Greek Life at HSU are social clubs, I am in one. I love it.
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Campus Safety
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The campus is very safe.
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Holly from Desoto, TX
a current student here
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In three sentences
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Hardin-Simmons is a family where as you walk to class you know almost every person you pass. Hardin-Simmons is a place of freedom to serve and speak about Jesus. Hardin-Simmons is an education enlightened by faith where the teachers care about the students on a personal level and because of this we are able to be scholars in our fields.
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Tips for prospective students
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If you are interested in a small school that you can feel part of a family while being accepted for your beliefs and getting a great education, check out Hardin-Simmons. One experience with the friendly community and you will fall in love with it.
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Academic Rigor
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Hardin-Simmons is serious about academics and strives to set us in the work world at the top of employers' lists. Because of the small class setting, we are able to do many more speeches and hands on projects to give us real world experience.
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Dorm Life
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Living on campus was a great experience for me! The directors and RAs are always busy making dorm life a memorable and great part of college. The dorms are great and surprisingly became home to me!
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Food and Dining
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While the cafeteria on campus is definitely not one of the best parts of campus, the food is good enough to be happy with and bad enough to be excited to get home cooking! Plus there is an all you can eat Blue Bell ice cream bar!
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What to do for fun
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Student Activities at Hardin-Simmons is continually hosting events on campus to keep us having fun, getting needed breaks from studying, and getting to know each other. There is also free bowling, pool, ping pong, swimming, and gaming systems always available for study breaks and hang outs!
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Bang for the buck
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I could not ask for a better school for this price! The campus is absolutely gorgeous and the education you receive is priceless.
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Great for these types of students
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Any student who is serious about their education, faith, and friendships will love Hardin-Simmons University.
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Clubs and Activities
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Our campus features something for every student including service clubs, intramurals, newspaper, annual All School SING!, choir, and many more opportunities to get involved.
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Greek Life
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Our campus has seven social clubs that are far from the sororities and fraternities seen at many larger schools. Our social clubs focus on the sister and brotherhood of their clubs while serving Christ and others.
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Campus Safety
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Our campus cops are always on patrol and just a short call away. I have never felt unsafe on campus as the university works hard to make it a secure and safe place for the students.
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Bethany from San Antonio, TX
accepted here and planning to attend soon
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In three sentences
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Hardin-Simmons University is located in a great environment. The college is very welcoming, fun, and a beautiful place to go to college. I loved the college when I went for a visit and has been the best one I've visited.
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Tips for prospective students
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If you're looking for a great college experience, Hardin-Simmons University is the right choice for you. Be ready for a fun, loving, and friendly environment that will help you and your faith grow.
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Dorm Life
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Dorm life is awesome!
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Food and Dining
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The food is actually really good!
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What to do for fun
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Intramural sports, swimming, sand volleyball, activities, and many more things!
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Great for these types of students
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Everyone!
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Clubs and Activities
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Many clubs and activities for everyone.
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Campus Safety
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There is security all around campus.
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