The University of Iowa is definitely the perfect school for me. My professors and TAs strive to make my classes interesting and challenging so that I want to learn the material. Beyond academics, Iowa has so many diverse extracurricular opportunities available that it is almost impossible not to find your perfect place here right away.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Put high school or community college behind you right away mentally. Being at a large University like Iowa is a completely different world than what you're used to. That might sound terrifying, but it's actually exhilarating. There are so many opportunities available to you that can completely change your life, but you have to be willing to step out of your comfort zone! Go Greek, join a few too many clubs, take a class you never would have taken in high school, wander around downtown. Make the most of your time on your visits and in your first few weeks; if you take chances here, they'll pay off eventually.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
I was a student who never felt challenged in high school. That changed entirely once I came to college. Instead of being surrounded by a wide array of academic abilities, everyone is in classes with students very similar to themselves, and that creates a really competitive atmosphere. It's hard not to get discouraged learning how to study or write better as an adult, but you adapt and it gets easier. Iowa helps, too. The professors and classes are tough, but profs and TAs are willing to work with anyone who asks for it. There are other resources, too, like dorm study sessions, success coaches, Math Lab, Writing Workshop, and so much more.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
I currently live in a dorm and I love it. You live right next door to some of your best friends and the rooms are actually really high quality for the most part. Everything is secure and kept up to date; I have no complaints.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
Hillcrest dining hall is better than Burge, but other than that there really are no issues here. As someone who eats clean and healthy, I was initially concerned that the dining at a big school wouldn't meet my needs, but I was wrong. Everyday there are a variety of fresh veggies and fruits available, and healthy meal options that are delicious. There's also a big variety, since you can eat at either Hillcrest or Burge dining halls or other meal-deal option places in Papajohn Business Building, the IMU, or the c-stores.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
It's hard to be bored in Iowa City. The rec has fun workout classes posted on their website every day, a swimming pool, workout equipment, a climbing wall, and other options if that's your thing. You can easily catch a bus, drive, or bum a ride to Coalville mall and ice skating rink. The campus and surrounding area is great for a walk, run, bike ride, roller blade, or whatever you like to do. It's easy to find a club or organization of people who like to do the same things you do, like play or sing music, talk about and practice photography, play intramural and club sports, and more. Joining a Greek organization gives you tons of opportunities to volunteer and go out, but also helps you make so many friends that there's always a brother or sister to hang out with. Downtown Iowa City has so many options, too. You can go to one of the museums on campus, shop, go to the bars and dance, go out to eat, and more. I've never had a dull moment at the University of Iowa.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
The University of Iowa is pretty low priced for such a prestigious school; many of my friends are from out of state and they say it's worth it too. There are also so many grants and scholarships available that make it more affordable. You definitely get more than you pay for here.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The brain rock. Touch it for good luck before every exam!
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
There's truly something for everyone here, from social organizations to music, athletics, volunteering, medical, and more. Personally, I think that Iowa's Greek Life and Dance Marathon are the best anywhere.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
GO GREEK. I never thought I would be saying that, but joining my organization was the best decision I've made so far. Originally, I believed that sororities were just like the rumors, movies, and stereotypes depict them to be; bratty, catty, snobbish rich girls who pay for their friends, only care about drinks and boys, and think they're better than everyone else. I couldn't have been more wrong! I made some of my best friends rushing and joining my sorority, and I've had so many opportunities from it. We're dedicated to our philanthropy and service, career building, academics, and extracurricular participation in addition to having fun. At Iowa, greek life is strong and has a great standing as a group of young men and women getting ready to help the world. Sure, we love to have fun, too, but who doesn't?
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
Our campus takes safety of students very seriously. Our partnership with the police department is strong, and any report of misconduct is met by action within the student body. There are options like NightRide and SafeRide available to transport students at night, and students are often reminded how to stay safe on campus and in the city.
The University of Iowa is definitely the perfect school for me. My professors and TAs strive to make my classes interesting and challenging so that I want to learn the material. Beyond academics, Iowa has so many diverse extracurricular opportunities available that it is almost impossible not to find your perfect place here right away.
Put high school or community college behind you right away mentally. Being at a large University like Iowa is a completely different world than what you're used to. That might sound terrifying, but it's actually exhilarating. There are so many opportunities available to you that can completely change your life, but you have to be willing to step out of your comfort zone! Go Greek, join a few too many clubs, take a class you never would have taken in high school, wander around downtown. Make the most of your time on your visits and in your first few weeks; if you take chances here, they'll pay off eventually.
I was a student who never felt challenged in high school. That changed entirely once I came to college. Instead of being surrounded by a wide array of academic abilities, everyone is in classes with students very similar to themselves, and that creates a really competitive atmosphere. It's hard not to get discouraged learning how to study or write better as an adult, but you adapt and it gets easier. Iowa helps, too. The professors and classes are tough, but profs and TAs are willing to work with anyone who asks for it. There are other resources, too, like dorm study sessions, success coaches, Math Lab, Writing Workshop, and so much more.
I currently live in a dorm and I love it. You live right next door to some of your best friends and the rooms are actually really high quality for the most part. Everything is secure and kept up to date; I have no complaints.
Hillcrest dining hall is better than Burge, but other than that there really are no issues here. As someone who eats clean and healthy, I was initially concerned that the dining at a big school wouldn't meet my needs, but I was wrong. Everyday there are a variety of fresh veggies and fruits available, and healthy meal options that are delicious. There's also a big variety, since you can eat at either Hillcrest or Burge dining halls or other meal-deal option places in Papajohn Business Building, the IMU, or the c-stores.
It's hard to be bored in Iowa City. The rec has fun workout classes posted on their website every day, a swimming pool, workout equipment, a climbing wall, and other options if that's your thing. You can easily catch a bus, drive, or bum a ride to Coalville mall and ice skating rink. The campus and surrounding area is great for a walk, run, bike ride, roller blade, or whatever you like to do. It's easy to find a club or organization of people who like to do the same things you do, like play or sing music, talk about and practice photography, play intramural and club sports, and more. Joining a Greek organization gives you tons of opportunities to volunteer and go out, but also helps you make so many friends that there's always a brother or sister to hang out with. Downtown Iowa City has so many options, too. You can go to one of the museums on campus, shop, go to the bars and dance, go out to eat, and more. I've never had a dull moment at the University of Iowa.
The University of Iowa is pretty low priced for such a prestigious school; many of my friends are from out of state and they say it's worth it too. There are also so many grants and scholarships available that make it more affordable. You definitely get more than you pay for here.
The brain rock. Touch it for good luck before every exam!
There's truly something for everyone here, from social organizations to music, athletics, volunteering, medical, and more. Personally, I think that Iowa's Greek Life and Dance Marathon are the best anywhere.
GO GREEK. I never thought I would be saying that, but joining my organization was the best decision I've made so far. Originally, I believed that sororities were just like the rumors, movies, and stereotypes depict them to be; bratty, catty, snobbish rich girls who pay for their friends, only care about drinks and boys, and think they're better than everyone else. I couldn't have been more wrong! I made some of my best friends rushing and joining my sorority, and I've had so many opportunities from it. We're dedicated to our philanthropy and service, career building, academics, and extracurricular participation in addition to having fun. At Iowa, greek life is strong and has a great standing as a group of young men and women getting ready to help the world. Sure, we love to have fun, too, but who doesn't?
Our campus takes safety of students very seriously. Our partnership with the police department is strong, and any report of misconduct is met by action within the student body. There are options like NightRide and SafeRide available to transport students at night, and students are often reminded how to stay safe on campus and in the city.