Macalester College

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN, USA
Private
4 Year

Sarah's Review

Review of Macalester College

Describe your college in three sentences.

Macalester is intellectually engaging and challenging. It emphasizes internationalism and community engagement, but it often falls down when it comes to commitment to its progressive values.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Take advantage of the Twin Cities! They are full of amazing opportunities to apply your learning. Find work that excites you and use your education to compliment that work.

What’s there to do for fun at your college?

The Townhouse is the best gay bar. Get into some performing arts in Minneapolis; I saw incredible one-man plays, quirky theater, and dance performances on a regular basis. Also, free Thursdays at the Walker. And playing in the snow.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

Private school can cost a lot (usually in the form of loans) but Macalester is committed to meeting the financial need of all its students, so for low-income folks, it can be a good deal. It's a great school academically, but not necessarily the path to the highest paid positions.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's the bell (ring it when you first have sex on campus). There's a game with a giant ball that has made a comeback since I was there. You can learn to play the bagpipe for free (one of my biggest regrets).

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Smart, engaged, thoughtful types

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

None