Saint Edward's University

Saint Edward's University

Austin, TX, USA
Private
4 Year

Diana's Review

Review of Saint Edward's University

from Santa Fe, NM

Describe your college in three sentences.

An incredibly beautiful school with a rich, proud history. Small, with attention payed to every student. A bit expensive, but well worth the money.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

I would suggest to build up scholarship money early for this school, and also make sure you take your education very seriously, but most of all I would recommend keeping an open mind and heart: be expected to encounter diversity.

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

This is not by any means an easy A school, nor is it a school that one would expect to go through without being social. The school focuses on teaching its students to broaden their horizons as well as concentrate on their intended major. To put it in the words of their motto: St. Edward's teaches you how to think. Be expected to involve yourself in community and campus projects for in-class grades, do competitive group projects, and dabble in subjects that are not so readily related to your major. This school makes it a point to step students out of their comfort zone of learning.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

Based on what I have encountered, dorm life is as hectic as one would expect from any college, the dorm I lived in had small rooms, as well as community bathrooms. More expensive dorms can range from suites to even on-campus apartments, some of the buildings are very beautiful: with gardens, rec rooms and even the occasional piano. The RA of each dorm will also host activities for the residents, allowing even the most homework-bogged of students to have something to do when they have free time. The RA of each wing are also very kind, helpful individuals who are willing to assist students with problems concerning roommates or maintenance problems. The problem I have with dorms on campus is that sometimes there aren't very accurate presentations of how the rooms are organized on the school website, and sometimes a student might find themselves disappointed with the results.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

The food at St. Edward's comes from local farmers and growers, significantly lowering the impact on the environment, while also providing very healthy choices in diet. There is food ranging from Texas Grill to Japanese Sushi, and a wide array of options are available to vegans and vegetarians as well as anyone with a sweet-tooth. The only problem I do have with dining is the hours -- vacation hours for cafeterias are sometimes rather small or non existent on some days, I would press future students to invest in bringing a small fridge to hold extra food in if they aren't going home over break.

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

St. Edward's hosts an array of events throughout the year to keep any on-campus student engaged. There are plays, lectures, guests, (i.e. comedians, actors, writers, etc.) holiday events, and even concerts held on campus throughout the year.

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

I would say this is one of the most wonderful colleges I have ever seen and experienced, just walking on campus itself is worth the money spent to go here. With people to help every step along the way, there isn't a doubt about one's future going to this school. I would give a gentle warning to those coming in that tuition to this school is very expensive, as well as on-campus living. If you are not a particularly social student, or a student that is looking for a smooth ride through their subject, I would suggest picking a different school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The most unusual traditions I have experienced are the ghost stories passed down to incoming freshmen on orientation -- which do keep the new undergraduates on edge -- and the long kept tradition of not walking on the College seal that rests behind one of the cafeterias on campus. Stray cats can be found wondering campus grounds during the day, and are rather friendly to the students and faculty -- they were originally found during the construction of one of the newer buildings, and are fed through the generosity of donations from students and visitors. Another perk is part of the campus is a very large nature preserve, and is fairly unusual for most colleges -- however taking a stroll through it every once and while is rather fun, and just adds to the overall beauty.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

For a student that is unsure of their future, and looking for a college where they won't fall through the cracks, this is a college that I would recommend. Those who are also looking for a bit of history and beauty in their time spent in school would also appreciate St. Edward's. Those who are also interested in the sciences will appreciate the award-winning science program at St. Edwards, as well as the (soon to be) newly upgraded building with the latest in technology for researching students.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

The sheer number of clubs on campus is astounding: interests from social activism, political party activism, to just enjoyable hobbies are available. (And of course, an array of sports clubs to join for those who are interested!) There are not any restrictions to what clubs can be joined -- anything can be signed up for once a freshman walks in the door. Activities are also just as numerous -- campus is usually alive with something to do on any given day.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

From what I have seen there doesn't seem to be too much activity regarding Greek Life. Then again, with my course load there isn't a particularly large amount of time for such activities.

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

The University Police Department is on constant patrol around campus, and have emergency call boxes set up in public areas. Escorts for students are also available at night if one does not wish to walk by themselves. All dorms and some other buildings are only accessible by student I.D. -- surveillance in these buildings is also very heavy on the perimeter and lobby.