The College of Saint Rose

The College of Saint Rose

Albany, NY, USA
Private
4 Year

Heather's Review

Review of The College of Saint Rose

from Pawcatuck, CT

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

My high school guidance counselor, on one of our last visits, asked why I did not apply to any reach schools--turns out Saint Rose was one of them! Saint Rose is known for its education, music, art/graphic design and communication sciences and disorders (CSD) programs, but it is making leaps in business, computer science, and communications as well. Education majors especially (such as myself) have it really tough, as you are truly a double major, and must be able to handle the work that comes along with it. Be prepared to become a full history scholar as well as an educator--many who come do not know this, and thus drop the program because they cannot handle the work. Even phys. ed. classes have a substantial amount of work attached to them, so if you're willing to put in your best effort in, this is the school for you!

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

The campus itself is spectacular. There's always something to do, and it's a very open campus. People of all backgrounds and beliefs (sexual, religious, etc.) are welcome, and there are a multitude of clubs and organziations to get involved in. Everything is a short walk or (free!) bus ride away, as the campus is really small and you can reach one end of the campus to the other in no more than 15 minutes (and then still be a short walk away from a grocery store, movie theater, etc.). The only downside is the general area. Albany is a large city, and it has its share of problems. For instance, at night it's hard to hear anything beyond drunk people milling about outside, but if you can withstand that and don't do anything stupid like go off on your own after a reasonable hour, you'll be fine. Security and the Albany Police patrol the area a lot, and at Orientation they give you their numbers so you can contact them for an escort or emergency. Saint Rose is truly the oasis people look for, and it is reflected in the beautiful landscaping and care taken by the employees.

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

I won't lie, Saint Rose is expensive, especially so if you're an out-of-state student such as myself, and thus don't qualify for NY Tap aid. The scholarships offered to new students are true to what they claim, but still conservative. And, if you just miss the mark for work study, you'll probably want to find a job around the campus after your first semester or year (once you're acclimated to college life). Also, NEVER stop searching for scholarships, and don't be afraid to tell Financial Aid that you're in need of more money. They can typically find something to help out, but you're basically on your own to pay for it. That being said, as I noted above you get a fantastic education for what you *do* pay, so it is worth it. Note though that many who do not return for another semester/year do so because they cannot afford to pay.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

1. Don't be swayed by the thought of alcohol and the parties you will hear about. EVERY single school in this country is a party school, but some hide it more than most. Saint Rose is a wet campus (so if you're 21 you can drink--with certain stipulations), and the apartments around the school are often dripping with alcohol, but that's not why you're here. You're here to learn, so put your studies first. 2. Get involved! There are a plethora of clubs to join and things to do, and if you don't like what you see, make one yourself! We're always open to new ideas, and it's been proven that if you are a part of a campus club, your grades are typically better, because you learn to balance your time. Plus, it's the surest way to beat boredom! 3. See what Albany has to offer. There are great concerts and music scenes, plays, art shows, and museums to check out, plus a lot of great restaurants and shops. 4. Make sure to watch your weight and exercise! Just because the Dining Hall food (which is decent compared to other schools) is all you can eat, doesn't mean that you should.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Saint Rose is great for: -people who like getting involved in causes and improving the world -leaders -athletes -people who are serious about school but still like to have fun -those who want to try something different from what they might be used to at home (i.e. people from rural areas like me) -people who like living in a city environment -compassionate people -YOU!