University of Akron Main Campus
Akron, OH, USA

Reviews

University of Akron Main Campus

Abby from Bellville, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The classes are generally small and the professors are fantastic. After you finish your electives, all the major-specific class are enticing and exciting. I'm glad I chose Akron over a smaller school. There are tons of opprotuniteis here for internships even in the cities near by like Canton, Stow, even Cleveland.
Am enjoying being here
I wouldn't be this happy anywhere else!
Bang for the buck
Quality education and a beautiful campus is worth it. The cost is relatively cheap compared to other universities this size.
Tips for prospective students
Fill out your FASFA early to get your maximum financial aid package. If you're living in the dorms, you either love it or hate it. I would recommend it to freshman because then you are located in the center of campus and everything is easier to get to. Plus you are closer to the dining hall.
Great for these types of students
Athletes, honor students, nursing students, engineering student, art students, social work, business, and sports related majors. These are the most commonly herd majors around campus. There are a million and 1/2 groups to join. Starbucks on campus for coffee lovers, and look up our rec center and prepare to be amazed. www.uakron.edu for majors, and for sports go to gozips.com !! Lets go blue and gold!

Elisa from Chagrin Falls, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
Some of the classes here seem like simple repeats of high school courses crammed into a shorter amount of time. I feel that some of the classes, including the prerequisites, include curriculums with subjects I've already learned about. It would be nice if the classes were more comprehensive,
Am enjoying being here
I live on campus and absolutely adore it. I would recommend living in the dorms to anyone considering this school. Almost every Tuesday night the Residence Hall Programming Board works hard to put on awesome and entertaining performances like comedians, dances and musicians... for free! I have attended all of them! The dorms are clean, close to classes and convenient. The people are also very friendly. I've made alot of friends.
Bang for the buck
For how much I pay to attend classes and live here, it is far better than some of my friends' colleges. There are so many free events to go to. Something is always going on. As a student you get access to the AWESOME recreation center, which I frequent every week. The pool is the perfect temperature and incredibly fun to get some people together and go to. There is alot of exercise equipment as well. It's such a huge place and very clean.
Tips for prospective students
I would defanitely recommend joining as many clubs as possible and to attend the welcome week events. The welcome week events are a great way to meet people. The people that I met when I first came to UA are still my friends. There is also a club fair in the student union that exhibits the many different clubs, volunteer groups, and Greek life that Akron students can join. I am in three different clubs and I've also met alot of friends by joining them.

I would also tell a first year student to relax about college and not feel nervous. This campus is the perfect size and they will feel right at home. There are so many people that are there to help and staff and students are incredibly nice. They should defanitely arrive on campus with an open mind.
Great for these types of students
I would defanitely recommend this school to athletes. They will get great use out of the recreation center, the track, the fields, and the college sports and intramural club sports programs. I am a theater major and the theater program isn't great but there is a theater club and defanitely a place for everyone here. I love how diverse the student population is. I also enjoy how many international students there are and the many study abroad options that are available here. I've made so many international friends! I really hope to study abroad through UA as well.

Christopher from Brecksville, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
I absolutely love it here. What's most impressive was "move in" day. The University of Akron has this process down to a science. You have your set time, a group of volunteer students helps you unload, everything is loaded into shopping carts, and they help you unload in your room. It was a very fast, very well orchestrated process -- one other universities should try and emulate.

Tips for prospective students
I'd recommend living on campus -- at least for your first year. There are so many things I'd miss as a commuter.

Don't be afraid to talk with your professors. They, along with your advisers, can help you find direction and put you on the right path toward graduation.

Get involved -- This is a chance to reinvent yourself. High school prepared you for this moment. If you had a bad time back then, this is your do-over. The University of Akron has countless groups you can get involved with. Show up and participate, no one will judge. In fact, they'll be happy you're there.

Take AP classes in high school. If you pass the AP test, you can cut out some college classes and save a lot of money.
Academic Rigor
The classes are challenging. Many times, freshmen are faced with weed-out classes. Don't let this discourage you. If you're sure of what you want to major in, soldier through those first few difficult courses and it'll all open up for you.

I'm averaging about three hours of homework a night. Calculus for Business Applications is tough, but there are tutors available to assist.
Dorm Life
I'm in the Honors Dorm and I love it. I've met several great people from all over Ohio and the surrounding states. I have friends in several other dorms across campus -- Quaker, Exchange Street, etc. All are safe and secure. The RAs are there to help resolve any issues and acclimate you to dorm life. Additionally, there are always activities going on. The only things that are mandatory are the weekly floor meetings.
Food and Dining
There are a lot of options around campus where you can use your Zip card. Rob's Dining Hall is the default. It's cafeteria food, but it'll do in a pinch. most of the other places (Pulp, Qdoba, Einstein Bagels) are only a five minute walk. You can also go off campus to the awesome Luigi's -- a legendary local Italian eatery for some of the best pasta and pizza ever.
What to do for fun
Join one of the many groups on campus. There are interest groups, fraternities, sororities, musical groups, and art groups -- take your pick.

If you like the outdoors, the MetroPark is just a few minutes away. For music, there's always stuff going on at Lock 3 in the spring and summer -- concerts, festivals, etc. Then there's Blossom Music Center, a ten mile drive, to see concerts.
Bang for the buck
Akron has come a long way in terms of its academic reputation. The School of Business, School of Law, School of Nursing, and School of Engineering are all top notch.

It's not the cheapest option you'll come across, but for the quality education you'll receive here, you'll be hard pressed to find a better, more economical option in northeast Ohio.
Great for these types of students
Engineering
Nursing
Pre-Med
Business
Law
Clubs and Activities
Lots to choose from. Akron has a weekend orientation for new students that allows them to see and speak with all of the campus clubs and organizations.
Campus Safety
While I love the campus, it's in a downtown, urban setting. Security is good on campus, but I'd be careful about straying too far off campus after hours.

Brittany from Rittman, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
When you look at the University of Akron staff/faculty, you find plenty of people who were in your shoes many years ago. You also find understanding and caring individuals who put 100% in their classrooms to benefit YOU. The work in each class is relevant and I've never asked myself, why do I need this? At the University of Akron, I know what I'm learning is important and fortunately, I'm learning a lot!
Am enjoying being here
The University of Akron isn't just about going to class and getting a degree, it's about having the best four years of your life while obtaining a degree! There are so many organizations to join from a sorority/fraternity to habitat for humanity! There's plenty of intramural sports for those of us who can't commit to the main team! Every one wants to have a blast while attending school, therefore you meet people who eventually become your best friend!
Bang for the buck
One word: Definitely. At first, the figures you're looking at seem pretty high. If you can attend a regional campus for the first year or two, it knocks the price down a bit. However, unlike some campuses, you have the option of living off-campus sooner. Also, a first year student is able to keep a car on-campus which makes commuting home much easier! I'm not overpaying to attend the University of Akron, if anything I'm underpaying.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus!! Ask questions when you visit, familiarize yourself with the campus. College is the one time in your life where you get a fresh start. No one knows who you were in high school so this is your chance to tweak it a little bit. I'm not saying to be someone you aren't, just simply someone you want to be. Break out of your shell and try (most) things once! Remember these are the best 4 years of your life.
Great for these types of students
Any student!! University of Akron accommodates all personalities whether you like to socialize or if you'd rather stay in. As said before, there are a ton of organizations! You meet so many different people, especially living on-campus, you're bound to find where you fit in!

Jennifer from North Canton, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
I really like Akron a LOT! I couldn't have asked for a better first semester here. I have incredible teachers and friends. There is also SO MUCH to do!!
Tips for prospective students
Don't get distracted by all the activities and fun stuff on campus. Parties aren't everything! Success is more easily attainable when you do the work now, then play later.
Academic Rigor
My teachers were excellent and really worked with us to make sure we knew the material. I did not have a crazy amount of homework.
Dorm Life
I don't stay in a dorm, however I have friends that do. Talk to your RA if you have any issues that can't be resolved one on one with your roommate. They seem to be really great about finding solutions.
Food and Dining
The food is good. I will say that the dining hall (Rob's) is the best on days when they do tours on campus. So go those days!
What to do for fun
There is so much to do! There is also always free stuff being given away!
Join the LGBT club because we love and accept everyone here.
There are always activities being hosted by various clubs. The new president of the college plays basketball with students like once a week, so that's pretty cool. Football games are a blast! I LOVE the band! I also love that we have a million Starbucks on campus. There are also lots of fun things to do off campus like clubs, restaurants, and hookah lounges. There's a bowling alley in the student union!
The rec center is great!
Bang for the buck
There's literally so much free stuff and activities to do.
Campus Safety
The police will escort you/drive you back to your car/dorm, no questions asked! There is also a shuttle that transports you around. There are emergency phones all over campus. I feel VERY safe on campus.

G from Victor, NY

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Akron is a university that is in the city but does not feel like its in a city. It feels like home and has a warm and welcoming climate. Its a great college for many.
Tips for prospective students
Take a tour to get to know campus. Don't have your mind set on a specific type of campus of a college, by visiting different places you will find the place that feels like home and is the best fit for you!
Academic Rigor
The professors are amazing are know their subjects well. they take the time to make sure you are in the classes you are ready for and to challenge yourself at the same time.
Dorm Life
Nice dorms, they have the normal community bathroom style and new dorms that have bathrooms in each room. All the rooms are a nice size and the buildings have plenty of study and hangout places.
Food and Dining
There are so many different options for food. You can change it up everyday and have new choices for the whole year. The food is good and the serving sizes are awesome.
What to do for fun
There is so much to do! There are always some time of sporting event going on. if you are not into sports there is a movie theater on campus as well as a game/ arcade. You can also see shows and performances as well as visit the local museums. Its also a quick drive or bus ride to downtown which has endless possibilities,
Bang for the buck
Great experience for the price. Everyone is so helpful and wants you to do your every best!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Some of the dorms are made from the grain silos that Quaker Oats used.
Great for these types of students
Everyone!! There is such a mix of students it works for everyone!
Clubs and Activities
So many different things to do. There are so many clubs that relate to your major as well as fun other clubs. You always have something to do!
Greek Life
There is Greek Life it is not supper big thing, but it is still there and many people participate in it and have a great time.
Campus Safety
They have the blue light system and on the back of your zip-card are the numbers for campus severity. They are always willing to walk you to your dorm at night and will help at a moments notice.

Victoria from Akron, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
Academic Rigor
All of the professors that I have had, have been nice. They try to do what they can to help students out and encourage them, when the students ask for the help. They are also very understanding with things like learning challenges and accommodations to help with the learning challenges.
Dorm Life
I put 3 stars in meaning that I am neutral on how the dorms are, as I have not lived on campus so I do not know how dorm life is.
Food and Dining
I haven't eaten a lot on campus yet, but from the few times that I have it has been good.
What to do for fun
The University is always planning things to do for fun. They offer many clubs and organizations to join as a way to get involved and connected with people on campus. There are a lot of sports events and there are other things like a movie theater and game room in the Student Union.
Bang for the buck
Akron U tries to do a lot of things that wouldn't cost students a lot of money and from what I have seen of other colleges and their costs Akron U offers a lot of things for not as much money.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who need accommodations, the Office of Accessibility is very helpful.
Clubs and Activities
I haven't tried many clubs or activities, but the things that I have gone to are fun. The Real Life Cru club is a great Christian group.
Campus Safety
For everything that I have seen, the University does a lot to try to help keep everyone safe on campus. They offer escorts to walk you where you need to go if you feel unsafe, and there are a lot of blue light emergency stations around campus.

Casey from Logan, OH

accepted here and planning to attend soon
Categories Comments
In three sentences
The university has a beautiful campus that is well maintained.Their students seem at ease and happy to be there. Their staff and organizations were well-organized and performed at high efficiency.
Tips for prospective students
Take the time to visit the campus. It's much easier to get the answers to your questions in person than over the phone.
Academic Rigor
They offer many courses my previous school did not. For example, two years of a foreign language is a requirement. My previous school only offered Spanish and Sign Language; on brief review of course offerings, I found that UA offers Japanese, German, Latin, and perhaps some years even Russian. This is a sign that they have a strong teaching body.
Dorm Life
Their living quarters are nicer than many I've seen. The exchange apartments come with a washer and dryer, which is nice because the building extends upwards 6 floors. The campus is large but every building is within walking distance of each other. What impressed me most was the fact that the doors are locked with key card access only. They have an attendant at the front desk to enforce this policy, who asks to see your key card upon entering. This gives you a real sense of security.
Food and Dining
There's a lot of variety on campus and around town for which you're able to use your meal plan. There are also vendors scattered around campus (like Starbucks) who won't take your meal plan, but it helps to break up the monotony, unlike some colleges who only have one cafeteria (and that's it).
Bang for the buck
I got a little more than I expected in that there are so many organizations on campus designed to help you succeed. If you're a part of a particularly rigorous major, you can apply to be a part of a Living-Learning Community. If you need a job, but you have trouble finding time to go out and search between classes, there's a career center and student union designed to help students find work. There are many advocates on campus whose only job is to help, and that's just not something you see on every college campus. It makes me feel like this college really cares, and is doing something good with my money.
Great for these types of students
Akron recently added this to their name Ohio's Polytechnic University
So if you're an engineering major, in or around Ohio, this would be a great place to go. The tuition is reasonable, comparably, and the resources are numerable.
The Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences is fantastic as well.

Sophie from North Canton, OH

accepted here and planning to attend soon
Categories Comments
In three sentences
As a post-secondary student here, my classmates and professors made the transition to college style classes easy and were always willing to help. The campus is not confusing either so I have never had a problem finding my way to class. When walking around campus and through the student union, I have noticed that there is always some type of activity going on whether that be a movie night or a meditation session.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you don't loose the syllabus for your class so that you know when homeworks are due and when the next quiz/exam is. This will help you remember to study and work ahead.
Academic Rigor
Depending on the class, you will be faced with challenging lessons.
Dorm Life
The Honors Dorms are definitely my favorite out of the living options.
Food and Dining
The options in the Student Union are my top choice for food on campus but there are a variety of places that you can eat off campus that accept your meal plan money.
What to do for fun
There are always activities going on run by the University or by the multitude of clubs on campus. There are always comdedians, musicians, or social events going on. Just check the Student Union or your e-mail to see what's coming.

Victoria from Olmsted Twp, OH

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
The University of Akron is allowing me to enjoy my time as a college student here on campus while teaching me what I will need for the future. Additionally, Akron has offered me a variety of groups and organizations to become involved with, so that I can enjoy my time here while joining organizations that interest me. Finally, Akron has made campus to feel like home, even though I am away from my home.
Tips for prospective students
For future students I would recommend looking at how much it will cost to attend Akron, or any school for that matter. I would recommend trying to find a roommate instead of doing random assignment. And no matter who you are, you will miss home so take location into consideration as well.
Academic Rigor
I am currently not have any difficulties in my classes. As a freshmen I was expecting most of my classes to be giant lecture halls, but in fact they weren't. The only giant lecture class I have is for chemistry (about 290 some kids). All of my other classes are about less than 30 kids, allowing us the professors to get to know us. If one is struggling in any of their classes, they can either communicate with the professor during office hours or receive free tutoring at our on campus library. (I didn't know how to rank academic rigor, so that's why I gave it three stars)
Dorm Life
Although I am living in the cheapest dorm possible, it is not bad. Sharing the bathrooms is not bad either. They are actually cleaner than when one has their own bathroom. Also, the RA's in my dorm are really helpful and want to get to know us. They have made this transition easier for me. Living on campus at Akron has given me opportunities to get to meet other people on campus that I would not have if I had chosen to commute.
Food and Dining
The food on campus is college food. Rob's is an all you can eat food service and offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night food. The union market tends to be a little more healthier in their options, but they are unfortunately closed on the weekend. Ohio Burger is a really good burger place to go to. Freshens is the healthiest place on campus, selling salads, crepes, rice bowls, and smoothies. Their convince store is also very healthy with selling organic fruit, and food. Although it is not homemade cooking like I'm used to, the food is still good.
What to do for fun
There are so many events one can do for fun. One can go to the game room to bowl and play pool. One can go to the amazing rec center we here, they can go swimming, rock climbing, play sports there, or just workout. One can join intramural teams for sports. Every week there are movies showing. One can go to any of the home sports games at no additional cost. One can also join organizations in which they find interesting. And finally, every week we have different 9:09 and 7:17 events put on by RHPB and RHC.
Clubs and Activities
Akron has over 300 campus clubs and organizations for students. Also one can create their own club if they find others interested in the same things. Also campus offers a lot of fun activities for the students, such as comedians, hypnotists, magicians, singers, etc.
Campus Safety
There are over 200 blue emergency lights on campus and the next one is always within eye distance of another. When you are in an emergency, you can hit the blue emergency light and walk towards the next one and then hit it, and by the time you get to the third light, the UAPD will be there. Also we have a campus escort system. So if one is afraid to walk alone at night, you can call for an escort and they will escort to wherever you need to go. Also your zipcard is needed in order to enter your dorm building, so only people in your dorm can get into the building using their card. And every guest that one brings to their dorm is required to check in for safety reasons.