The professors here are very encouraging and willing to help students succeed. I have a one or two professors whose classes didn't challenge me at all. However, I've also had many professors who are not only incredibly intelligent with high standards, but are wonderful people and strong Christians, too. I think it depends partly on the program you pursue here; some (Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.) are stronger than others (Math, etc.). Overall, your academic experience is what you want it to be. If you want to learn and be challenged, you will put forth an effort, pick professors who will challenge you, and, preferably, look into the honors program. You can also slack off (to an extent), pick easy professors, and live it up at the beach all the time. That having been said, there is a great potential for academic growth here, in a Christian environment.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
I love the Christian atmosphere of PBA. Of course, not everyone contributes to that atmosphere, but a large portion of the student population really are actively involved in church and campus ministries. The school offers mission trips, hall Bible studies, weekly student-led nights of worship, etc. There is a moderate amount of school spirit (people get into Sailfish Cup -- the annual dorm competition -- but hardly anyone goes to sports games), which suits me fine, but may disappoint others. There are downsides to any school, and I could possibly get better academics (for less money) at UF or another public university. However, I think PBA offers more good than bad, especially if your faith is important to you.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
For a private school, it's not too bad. They do offer a decent amount of merit-based aid, based on your test scores/high school GPA. Financial aid and work-study jobs are also available for those who qualify. Basically, if you diligently apply for scholarships, you won't end up breaking the bank. It helps if you're from Florida, as Bright Futures and the Florida Resident Access Grant will cover a chunk of the cost. There are also departmental scholarships for certain majors (Theatre, etc.). One bit of advice: Check online for books; the bookstore doesn't always have the cheapest prices, and you can save lots of money renting/getting used books elsewhere.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Visit the campus if you can, and take the time to talk to some of the students (preferably in your major). Sit in on a class. You'll get a much better idea of whether PBA is right for you. I was set against coming here until my dad persuaded me to go to an open house. Now I'm glad I came.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
If you want more in a college experience than academics (and realize that they aren't always the most important thing), and have a strong or growing Christian faith, you'll like it here. Also, you'll love it here if you like the beach. There's a small downtown area nearby too, but it's not a very big city, so if you want tons of things to do off-campus (and don't like the beach), the location might be a downside.
The professors here are very encouraging and willing to help students succeed. I have a one or two professors whose classes didn't challenge me at all. However, I've also had many professors who are not only incredibly intelligent with high standards, but are wonderful people and strong Christians, too. I think it depends partly on the program you pursue here; some (Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.) are stronger than others (Math, etc.). Overall, your academic experience is what you want it to be. If you want to learn and be challenged, you will put forth an effort, pick professors who will challenge you, and, preferably, look into the honors program. You can also slack off (to an extent), pick easy professors, and live it up at the beach all the time. That having been said, there is a great potential for academic growth here, in a Christian environment.
I love the Christian atmosphere of PBA. Of course, not everyone contributes to that atmosphere, but a large portion of the student population really are actively involved in church and campus ministries. The school offers mission trips, hall Bible studies, weekly student-led nights of worship, etc. There is a moderate amount of school spirit (people get into Sailfish Cup -- the annual dorm competition -- but hardly anyone goes to sports games), which suits me fine, but may disappoint others. There are downsides to any school, and I could possibly get better academics (for less money) at UF or another public university. However, I think PBA offers more good than bad, especially if your faith is important to you.
For a private school, it's not too bad. They do offer a decent amount of merit-based aid, based on your test scores/high school GPA. Financial aid and work-study jobs are also available for those who qualify. Basically, if you diligently apply for scholarships, you won't end up breaking the bank. It helps if you're from Florida, as Bright Futures and the Florida Resident Access Grant will cover a chunk of the cost. There are also departmental scholarships for certain majors (Theatre, etc.). One bit of advice: Check online for books; the bookstore doesn't always have the cheapest prices, and you can save lots of money renting/getting used books elsewhere.
Visit the campus if you can, and take the time to talk to some of the students (preferably in your major). Sit in on a class. You'll get a much better idea of whether PBA is right for you. I was set against coming here until my dad persuaded me to go to an open house. Now I'm glad I came.
If you want more in a college experience than academics (and realize that they aren't always the most important thing), and have a strong or growing Christian faith, you'll like it here. Also, you'll love it here if you like the beach. There's a small downtown area nearby too, but it's not a very big city, so if you want tons of things to do off-campus (and don't like the beach), the location might be a downside.