University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA, USA

Reviews

University of Northern Iowa

Greg from Alton, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
I am learning to be more independent while at the same time gaining a very valuable education in a safe setting. Not only am I learning good study habits, I am also learning about time management. The professors and staff here really care about their students and are willing to go the extra mile if you need help. With all the free tutoring available on campus it would be very hard to fail a class.
Am enjoying being here
I love the campus. It isn't so small that I feel I am missing out on what a bigger campus might have to offer, and it isn't so big that I feel lost, either. It is just the right size to offer everything you could possibly want in a university from student organizations to athletic events to other activities and recreation.
Bang for the buck
All colleges and universities are expensive, but I feel the education I am getting at UNI is a good one. It has several majors and minors to choose from with six different major colleges.
Tips for prospective students
Make the most of your college experience. Get involved early on. Study hard and ask for help if you need it. Most of all enjoy the new friendships you will make.
Great for these types of students
Those wanting to pursue an education with the hope of getting a good job after graduation.

Juliana from Norwalk, IA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
Categories Comments
In three sentences
The nicest thing about the campus is that everything is within walking distance. The classrooms in the newly renovated Education building all look fantastic. There are plenty of practice rooms for those interested in music!
Tips for prospective students
Visit campus, and go to every building you have the slightest interest in. If you don't know where something is, ask! Everyone is super friendly and would love to point you in the right direction or give you tips for college life!
Academic Rigor
Every professor knows what they're talking about. Be prepared to learn a lot.
Dorm Life
As I was told, live in the quads if you want to learn, because the other places have the parties, and you don't want them next door.
Food and Dining
There are two buildings that charge for entrance, and then have delicious all you can eat with many varieties of food.
What to do for fun
There are posters everywhere advertising clubs and activities and events. Plus, each student gets a free admission to one performance a year. Some used this to see Pentatonix when they came to campus.

Kirsten from Marion, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Small enough to have a community feel, large enough to have plenty of opportunities. Numerous organizations and clubs to get involved in. Great academics.
Tips for prospective students
Don't slack off once you get here. It's tempting to do, but not doing homework and not attending class only hurts you in the end. Make a habit of using lists, planners, or calendars of some sort. It will come in handy once the classes start picking up speed. Keep an open mind. Get involved in organizations and clubs, it will help with the transition to college, and you will make friends.
Academic Rigor
Classes tend to be slow for a couple days at the beginning of a semester, but then they dive right into the coursework. There is more out of class time in college than in high school. Remember that for every hour you are in class, you will probably need to study for three hours out of class.
Dorm Life
All of the dorm buildings are nice, even though none of the rooms in the dorms have air conditioning. Bender and Dancer have carpeting. Upperclass housing includes Shull hall, ROTH (residence on the hill), and the new Panther Village. Each residence hall or apartment setting has RA's and they plan a lot of activities for the house residents, including movie nights and house dinners.
Food and Dining
SO many options to choose from. You can go to the traditional dining centers, the Piazza and the Rialto, or you can go to Mauker Union if you're craving iced coffee, Chinese, or to-go snacks. There are a couple of markets located on campus as well.
What to do for fun
There are many clubs and organizations to get involved with. There is something for everyone. the CAB, Campus Activities Board, host many events, such as movie nights. College Square Mall, Crossroads Mall, and downtown Cedar Falls are just short bus trips away.
Bang for the buck
It's not too bad. Pretty average for public colleges, but once you get here you notice how much your tuition pays for.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Campaniling is the first that comes to mind. It's a tradition that has been passed down through the classes since the Campanile was built. It's a homecoming tradition, and at midnight, you are supposed to stand under the Campanile and kiss your significant other. It is said that if you don't, a brick will fly off and hit you. ;)
Great for these types of students
UNI is known for being a great school for secondary education majors, but I think it could suit almost anybody.
Clubs and Activities
A lot of options for students. I guarantee that there is a group for everyone on campus. The clubs are active and inviting. There are a lot of activities as well, movie nights being one of the most popular.
Greek Life
Greek life isn't a very big deal here, but it's still there and is noticeable.
Campus Safety
I feel very safe walking around on campus. I have had to walk alone at night on campus, and each time I have felt very safe. However, if there is ever an instance where someone doesn't feel safe, there are blue emergency signals all around campus, and you can also get safe rides at night.

Jacinda from DUMONT, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The professors here a very helpful. If you ask for help they'll help you. They don't make you feel stupid if you don't get it. Chances are, you're not the only one who doesn't understand. I've learned a lot my first year here.
Am enjoying being here
UNI is a great school. There's great art programs that go on throughout the year, the classes are easy to get involved in, there are many different clubs and activities you can become a part of, too. The residence halls are nice and it's easy to make friends, especially if you live on campus. I love it here, and I'm glad I decided to come to school at UNI.
Bang for the buck
Compared to a lot of other state universities, UNI doesn't cost as much for what you get. With tuition and room & board, you get free access to the WRC (the school's work out center) and the Health Care Center. You also get free admission into the school programs like plays and musicals and music concerts, and discounted tickets on other concerts and programs that happen at UNI's Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. You also get in free to the sporting events (Go Panthers!).
Tips for prospective students
Get out there and get involved. It's easy to do and it's even easier to make friends. College is a thing you have to enjoy to do well at. Pick a major you like and just have fun with it. UNI is a great school and the advisors and professors work with you and help you make it a good experience.
Great for these types of students
UNI is great for all students. The UNI campus is beautiful and sometimes reminds me of a small-town community. If you get tired of the same thing just walk a few blocks or drive onto University Avenue and you'll get the bigger city feel. The University of Northern Iowa helps you succeed. They give you the opportunities needed to do your best no matter what type of student you are.

Emily

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
My learning is being benefited by the educators here at UNI. The teachers are really good at getting their information acrossed they will also take as much time helping you understand any problems you have, which makes you understand want you are learning and I think that is the best thing for me. The teachers push me to try harder than I have before this is making me learn lots more information as well as new things about myself as well.
Am enjoying being here
There is always something going on whether its a sport activity, hanging with friends, clubs, and meetings. There is always someone around that enjoys doing the same as me. That is what makes UNI enjoyable you find people that you have more incommon with than in high school plus if you live in a dorm your friends are mainly a door away.
Bang for the buck
College is expensive anywhere you go but at UNI I think it is worth it. They have many different programs and activities that you get in bonus to just paying for school. One program they have is the 2-year advantage plan which locks in the rate for room and board as well as meal plan so if prices go up you can still pay last years lower rate which in the end saves you money. Another good thing UNI offers is free tutoring which you can find for about every subject and the tutors can help you study for a test or even on your homework this is nice because you don't have to pay anything at the time of the visit. The last thing is you get in free to all the sporting events as well as the rec center which is amazing to some.
Tips for prospective students
Have fun with everything that you do. Don't be shy just be the person you want to be and make as many friends, they will make life alot easier and more fun.
Great for these types of students
UNI is great for students who are going into teaching or business majors. It is also great for students who like small classes but have enough people where you don't know everyone and everyone doesn't know your whole life story like people did in high school.

Katelyn from Ames, IA

researching this school
Categories Comments
Will learn a lot
I have visited campus a couple times. Both times I got the feeling that I would be able to learn a lot on campus. Right now I am living at home and attending another college. It is challenging because I am not close to the library. There seem to be many areas around campus that are quiet and would be good study spots.
Will enjoy being here
There are many places to go to have a good time. I am very excited to transfer here. I have many friends that go here and they all love it. They say the town is very nice and has many different activities to participate in on the weekends.
Bang for the buck
Out of all of Iowa's state schools, this one is the cheapest. First of all, the tuition is the cheapest. Second of all, any football, basketball, wrestling, or other sports gatherings you wish to attend are free to students. At both of the other state schools you have to buy tickets for the season in order to go to the games. I am looking forward to all of these opportunities.
Tips for prospective students
I would recommend to keep up on the readings for every class. Get the readings done before class so you can use the class discussions as a review. Also, get involved in extracurricular activities from the very beginning. Take advantage of opportunities that arise. Use the activities to meet new friends. Make the most out of your college experience, and most of all, have fun!
Great for these types of students
Great for students looking to go into a career in education.

Emma from Sioux Center, IA

researching this school
Categories Comments
In three sentences
After going on a campus visit, the University of Northern Iowa is definitely at the top of my list. The tour guides were great and really showed off their incredible campus and helped me to picture myself being apart of the community there. A meeting I had with a professor there also showed that the University of Northern Iowa has a great background in the major I want to go into.
Tips for prospective students
If you are thinking about adding the University of Northern Iowa to your list of colleges, I would strongly recommend visiting the campus because it gives you a great perspective.
Academic Rigor
From what I heard from the professor I talked with and our tour guides I think their academic rigor is just the level I need to challenge me in the future.
Dorm Life
During my visit to campus we toured the dorms and they seem like a great place to hang out or study, plus most of the dorms are near or connected to a place to eat.
Food and Dining
While on my visit we got to have lunch in on of the dining areas and there was a great selection of different kinds of food and it all tasted really good.
What to do for fun
After my visit I learned there are so many ways to be entertained at UNI like going to games or plays for free since you are a student or going to the gym to workout or swim.
Campus Safety
I felt very safe on the campus and I am not concerned that my safety would be an issue on this campus.

Katlyn from Spencer, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
If you're looking for a small campus with a big campus feel, then UNI is the place for you! Activities are available for everyone who wants to get involved; whether you're interested in a club linked to a major or a special interest you have, the University of Northern Iowa will fit your needs. With a diverse group of students and faculty, finding a niche here will be a breeze!
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you take a tour and ask lots of questions! The guides are there to help you figure out if and how UNI is a great fit for you!
Academic Rigor
Students are academically challenged, but the professors do a WONDERFUL job of helping them when they ask. Many classrooms also have a Peer Mentor or Teacher's Assistant to hold study sessions and work with you on assignments or ideas you do not understand.
Dorm Life
Everyone is open and willing to have fun and meet new friends! The Resident Assistants also plan many fun and exciting activities that all students will enjoy. You will become very close to the other students within your house.
Food and Dining
UNI does a fantastic job of providing different options for all taste buds. They provide vegan and vegetarian meals for my fellow vegans, as well as both healthy options and comfort food. You will never get sick of eating in the dining centers!
What to do for fun
There are always events on campus to attend! Otherwise, you can trust your RA's will plan fun events for you. I also suggest getting involved with organizations/ministries on campus; they generally have entertaining and exciting parties and events!

Kristin from Cedar Rapids, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
Your college experience will be based on what you put into it. I have learned allot and meet some wonderful people in my department and on campus. The professors and staff are very nice and willing to help you if you ask.
Tips for prospective students
Be open to many new interests. Do not limit yourself. Join many groups. Stay in the dorms
Academic Rigor
UNI offers many degrees. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.

I feel very prepared to go into a high school and teach. My fiend experience teachers have let me teach as they felt I had the skills and abilities to do so. My brother also graduated from UNI and he is in a PHD program at Notre Dame. He said he is as prepared as any other student and better than most.
Dorm Life
This is my 4th year and i have stayed in the dorms all 4 years and the first semester my fifth year, I will student teach the last semester my fifth year. I am in the same room I started my freshman year. I remain on the food program so do not have to shop or cook, so I can concentrate on my studies and sport. I put in 15 - 25 hours a week for my sport and about the same in my studies. I also do not have to pay rent all summer or sublet after the fall semester my fifth year, as I return home for a summer job and to student teach.
Food and Dining
This is my fourth year on the food program. Good choices and facilities. My parent said it was the best and healthiest food from the colleges we visited.
What to do for fun
I have joined many groups. I am a student athlete so that takes up allot of my time and have a double major with 3 teaching endorsements so I spend allot of time studying. I have meet some great friends by residing on campus in the dorms. A group of us love to go line dancing on Thursday nights in the community.
Bang for the buck
I obtained many scholarships from the college so I have not had to take out a student loan yet.
Clubs and Activities
Student athlete
christian athlete
nominated for homecoming queen
student life committee in dorms
Campus Safety
very small campus and I feel very safe.

Christina from Cedar Falls, IA

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
I love the atmosphere here at UNI. The students are amazing and the professors are always there to help. The class sizes are perfect for someone who is looking for a college that has a lot going on but isn't too big.
Tips for prospective students
I would suggest living on campus at least for the first year. I chose to live off campus and I almost feel like I am missing out on some of the fun of being a college kid. I would also suggest studying quite a bit and asking for help when you need it. The difference they make is enormous! I would also suggest getting involved in groups and activities that you find interesting.
Academic Rigor
I will admit that I didn't study as much in high school so it is more difficult for me to sit down and study for a test or a quiz, but you will need it. College is, in my opinion, a lot harder than high school and the answers aren't just handed to you.
Dorm Life
The dorms are great! I haven't lived in one, but all my friends who do say that they love them. The dorms are a great way to make friends because everyone is so welcoming.
Food and Dining
The food here is GREAT! It is buffet style so you eat as much as you want! There are also so many choices of what to eat! The ice cream that they have is amazing too!
What to do for fun
There is so much to do for fun. There is a club or organization here for almost anything that you can imagine, and if there isn't one that you like you can start your own. One of the best things to do at UNI is go to the football games. All of the students get to excited and cheer on the team together.
Bang for the buck
The tuition at UNI is really cheap and there is so much to do. Tuition is only $7,000 dollars for Iowa residents. The professors love their jobs, so classes fun, but you actually learn too. Students get into the sports events for free and get to work out, swim, or climb the rock wall for free.
Great for these types of students
UNI is great for students who are interested in teaching and for students that are interested in business. It is still a very good school for everything else, so don't worry.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs on campus. There is a club for almost anything, and if there isn't one for you then you can start on for yourself.