Roanoke College

Roanoke College

Salem, VA, USA
Private
4 Year

Rachel's Review

Review of Roanoke College

from Salem, VA

Describe your college in three sentences.

Roanoke College is comprised of a small, fun-loving community welcoming to all students. A friendly atmosphere pervades the atmosphere, creating a united student body. A unique trait in colleges, Roanoke College's faculty and staff genuinely care about students' success while attending the institution and after graduation.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

To get the most out of Roanoke College, get involved with different clubs or organizations. The college really is a social atmosphere. Get involved with sports, Greek life, or academic and social clubs, and you'll get to know the best part of Roanoke College: the people.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

Depending on you departmental major, academics can be very challenging. The most challenging academics are in the science department, just because of the required labs, and in the honors program, because of the many requirements. Many of the other majors, such as the fine arts and liberal arts, aren't as challenging because they don't have as many requirements. All classwork is doable as long as you create the time to succeed.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

Although not all the dorms are new and sleek, the dorms are all relatively close to each other and foster really warm communities. If you haven't spent time in all the dorms by the end of your first year, you are a rare case.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

Chef Bob and the rest of the Commons crew create awesome meals three times a day. The staff is very friendly, creating themed meals throughout the year that cause long lines. There are always Gluten-free and vegetarian options, although these are not always the most appetizing choices.

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

If there's not a planned event on campus, Downtown Salem, in RC's front yard, has something going on. Many of the social events come through RC's Greek Life, though.

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

RC is what you make of it. It has a huge price tag, but if you take the time to apply for scholarships, the price tag will be greatly reduced. All of the faculty want you to succeed and go out of their way to help you, one of the great things about this small school. If you work hard in class, RC will give you a community to play hard in, as well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The President of the College throws a Black and White Ball every year for all of the students, which is actually really fun. If you step on the seal in front of the Administration Building, you will be cursed to not graduate in four years. Kicking the kicking post in between Trout Hall and the Administration Building is supposed to bring good luck.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Roanoke College is best for social students who are interested in a well-rounded college experience.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

There are many different clubs for many different interests. You can join these clubs whenever, and the whole campus is open to their events. However, this is a small school so not all interests will be guaranteed to be encompassed.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

Greek Life is a big part of RC's social scene. There are five fraternities and four sororities. Most of the Greek events are open to the entire campus. However, because there are only 9 Greek organizations, not everyone will find a group in which they belong.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

Campus Safety officers are very friendly and can be seen riding around campus all the time. While no very dangerous events have happened on campus, some shenanigans do occur.