Top Catholic Universities: What's Your Experience?

As a Catholic junior, I've been looking into Catholic universities but there's quite a few and I want to get some personal experience. If anyone here goes to a Catholic university or knows someone who does, could you tell me about your experiences? Anything you'd wish you knew before choosing the school would be super helpful too.

Sure, it's a great idea to seek firsthand experiences when researching colleges. I've worked with several students who decided to attend Catholic universities, and their experiences have varied depending on the individual schools.

Many students value the sense of community that's often present at Catholic universities. Some schools, such as Notre Dame and Georgetown, are known for their close-knit student bodies and active alumni networks. This community feeling often extends beyond the campus as well, and many students value the connections they form as part of their school's community.

On the academic side, Catholic universities like Boston College and Villanova have strong programs in a variety of fields. For instance, Georgetown is renowned for its international relations program, while Notre Dame has a prestigious business school. It's also beneficial to remember that the strength of academic programs can vary between universities, so you might want to look at this factor depending on your intended major.

In terms of religious life, the level of faith integration and the emphasis on Catholicism can vary widely among these schools. Some institutions, like Loyola University Chicago or DePaul, may have more of a liberal arts focus with less emphasis on religious life. Others, such as University of Dallas or Franciscan University of Steubenville, have strong faith communities and incorporate Catholic teachings across all aspects of student life. It’s important to factor this into your decision, especially if you’re looking for a specific level of religious involvement.

One thing several students have mentioned wishing they'd known is the range of Catholic culture at different schools. Some universities might feel more like a tight-knit parish, while others simply offer a Catholic backdrop to a more traditional university experience. Think about your personal comfort level with the integration of faith into academics and everyday life as you consider these options.

Finally, be prepared for discussions on faith and morality, and for these topics to be integrated into your academic experience to varying degrees. This is something that many students appreciate about their Catholic education, but it may be different from what you're used to if you haven't attended a religious school before. You might encounter different perspectives on faith even within a Catholic setting.

Remember, visiting schools (in person or virtually) can give you a great sense of what life on campus can feel like, which could be beneficial in your decision process. Best of luck with your college search!