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Allegheny College Reviews

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Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Allegheny College reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Allegheny College. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Allegheny College reviews, or contribute your own Allegheny College review if you're a current student there.

  • 11 out of 11 people found this review useful.

    Roma from Morristown, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    If you weren't a hand-raiser before coming to Allegheny, it just might turn you into one. Class discussions never fail to be compelling, and even lecture classes are stimulating and never too large to exclude anyone. There is admittedly a heavy workload, in terms of papers and required readings outside of actual class hours, but there is no such thing as busywork here, as every assignment in some way significantly contributes to the course. Interdisciplinary study is one of the pillars of an Allegheny education, and many professors will freely approach their subject from unconventional angles, ie. applying psychological concepts to literature, exploring the historical implications of the film industry, discussing the role of existentialist philosophy in French literature. Suffice it to say, there's never a dull class here.
    Am enjoying being here

    It's not everyone's first choice, and it wasn't mine, but I have yet to meet anyone who isn't growing to love it. Loyalty and school pride are gradual but inevitable, as you find something new to love every day: the way the dining hall staff greets you by name at breakfast, that professors are more helpful and understanding than you could have hoped, how the President always pairs a college logo baseball cap with his suit and tie and greets every student he passes while walking on campus, the view of the Meadville lights through your window at night, the slight slope of the lawn between buildings that's ideal for sledding. Warning: After just a few weeks on campus, you may suddenly find yourself wondering how you ever could have pictured yourself anywhere else.
    Bang for the buck

    The only thing possibly more exciting than the acceptance letter is the followup envelope that details the copious amounts of money the school is willing to give in grants and merit scholarships. A liberal arts education isn't cheap, but Allegheny does its best to make tuition payments as painless as possible.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid to be completely, wholly, two hundred percent yourself. The college welcomes and embraces individuality, whether you're a double-jointed concert pianist, looking to double major in International Studies and Studio Art, or a left-handed unicycle enthusiast with blue hair. It's no joke when we say we like unusual combinations.
    Great for these types of students

    Anyone unimpressed by the glitz of brand-name Ivies and looking for the comprehensive college experience, who can brave the cold to savor a quietly breathtaking campus, who will study hard but always leave their door open for visitors, who gets as excited for an environmental conservation lecture or guest author reading series as a campus-wide game of Humans vs. Zombies, and who's ready to make the next four years of their life totally worthwhile.

  • 8 out of 9 people found this review useful.

    Amy from Fort Worth, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Small classes and really interesting and concerned professors make staying at Allegheny a pleasure.
    Am enjoying being here

    Allegheny provides many opportunities to learn inside and outside the classroom. Right now I am part of a volunteer group that is based on campus, but helps the individuals within the community. Most of the students are open and nice, however there are some who seem to be here for the wrong reasons.
    Bang for the buck

    Allegheny has a trustees scholarship that is very helpful, and most students get some sort of scholarship. But even with the scholarships,
    I feel that Allegheny is a little too expensive, and the financial aid department is not very helpful at times.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus; talk to the professors, but do not be wooed by the admission staff, because when you get into Allegheny you won't see these people very often, and them knowing your name and where your from will not really matter. Also I would not suggest staying over night, since it does not give you the true experience of living on your own.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who are interested in pre-med, students who do not mind living in a small town, and students who understand that studying is a top priority would do fine at Allegheny.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Erick from Allentown, PA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    During my stay, it was amazing how nice everyone was, especially the staff. It was also very cool to talk to the admissions staff and realize that they remember everyone that applies...they pretty much new my life's story and that was impressive!
    Great for these types of students

    Students looking to reduce the amount of people they are around but still wanting to make many friends quickly.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    James from Pittsburgh, PA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus and have a personal interview. Just be yourself.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Katie from Philadelphia, PA

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    Classes are small, intense, challenging, and enlightening. Professors are usually eager to help and The Learning Commons is full of people who want you to succeed. The school takes a personal interest in your education, and if you commit to the rigorous curriculum, you can reap great rewards/
    Did enjoy being here

    I loved my time at Allegheny. I met amazing people, had incredible adventures, and learned as much outside the classrooms as I did inside them.
    Bang for the buck

    This is an expensive school, but the administration is eager to help support students financially. The overwhelming majority of students use scholarships and financial aid. Allegheny is an amazing school, but it just may not be financially feasible for everyone.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit campus - it's beautiful. There's a wonderful mix of hundred-year-old brick architecture with state-of-the-art modern buildings. Also, make sure you understand the credit requirements; especially that there's no core curriculum. Ask plenty of questions about the Senior Comprehensive project as well.
    Great for these types of students

    Anyone who loves to learn and is capable of working hard. Students need to understand the concept of reaping what one sews. It is also helpful to be eager to pursue a variety of ideas and opportunities as attendance at Allegheny College comes with almost endless potential - you just have to be committed to succeeding, and the school will help you do it.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Tashina from Orrville, OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I have learned so much at Allegheny--the professors and students alike are helpful, intelligent, and compassionate. At Allegheny, professors will know you by name and appreciate you for the unique combination of interests that encompass who you are as an individual. As far as work, every student agrees that the workload is intense. However, you will understand your subject(s) so thoroughly, and the workload is not unmanageable.
    Am enjoying being here

    Being a rather expensive liberal arts college, Allegheny has students who lack a genuine interest to learn but have the funds to attend. However, every school has this minority, and the amount of intelligent and incredibly enthusiastic learners far outweighs the rest. Students at Allegheny are involved on a community and national level--if you have a passion for service, you will adore Allegheny. The amount of extracurricular clubs catering to every interest (both academic and non-academic) is also enormous. While there have been issues associated with intolerance in the past, students have rallied together in many instances to prove that we are Gators, not Haters. Being quite tiny, everyone knows everyone at Allegheny. However, the town of Meadville is quite small and this deters some students. Yet, if you look hard enough, you will find some hidden gems for fun, food, and entertainment. Just ask any student and they'll be happy to tell you (and Erie is only a short drive away!)
    Bang for the buck

    Allegheny is expensive and I initially had some issues with financial aid. However, if you show academic aptitude, Allegheny will give you more money so you will attend--being a small school, they are quite generous. Some students have issues with the EFC calculations and large loan amounts. Yet, I think Allegheny is worth the price, and a student should talk with the Financial Aid Office before completely dismissing the school based on money.
    Tips for prospective students

    Your academic record is incredibly important but don't forget to pay attention to extra-curricular activities! Also, visiting was very helpful to me. Try to visit when students are not on break to get a better feel for the campus.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who are willing to work very hard and are intently interested in their subjects will thrive here, as well as students that enjoy a combination of interests. Students who are passionate about service and community-based projects will also love Allegheny. Allegheny is also great for those who appreciate a tight-knit community where your professors will know you as a person and everyone knows everyone else.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I've learned so much in the semester that I've been here. The professors are very helpful, and encourage you to visit them during their office hours if you have questions. Because Allegheny doesn't make you take any required freshman classes outside of an FS, I was able to pick classes in my intended major right away, and they have all been very interesting to me!
    Am enjoying being here

    The environment is fun, and the people here are awesome! Mostly everyone is very friendly, and the school employees are very kind and willing to help you in any way. The only thing that isn't my favorite is probably the weather - when it's warm, it seems to rain all the time and when it's cold it snows all the time (and there's quite a lot of it).
    Bang for the buck

    So far, I'm very happy that I came to Allegheny, and while I'm not completely broke yet, sometimes I wonder why I'm paying so much. The dorms are much nicer than some of the other schools I have visited, but some of them could still use a face lift - depending on what building it is, the carpets tend to be stained/smelly, the paint is starting to chip, and the heating systems seem to be barely working. Another thing that I have not been very happy with is the snow removal - for $44,000 a year, you would think that the stairs would be shoveled and salt would be put down. The bookstore is overpriced (although I guess it's no worse than any other college's) - I have never bought my texts there and will never (I buy my books and materials from eBay and Amazon, and usually spend half of what I would've spent at the bookstore). I really like the school's food programs, though - we use fresh ingredients from local farms, and both McKinley's and Brooks rotates meal items every day.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be sure that you like snow if you're considering Allegheny - there's a lot of it here! Also, be resourceful and check out as many of the links on the school's webpages as you can - sometimes, procedures for different things (like student employment and financial aid) aren't spelled out for you when you get here, and you need to do a little research. If you ever really get stuck, though, be sure to call someone and ask before it becomes a big problem - any person I've ever talked to is always willing to help with any problem or question. Also, if you have a roommate problem, try to talk it out with them. If you can't, get your RA involved; moving into a new room is an option, but be sure to try to work out any problems, because as this is a small school, you most likely will see your old roomie again, and having been kind and courteous before will make this much easier.
    Great for these types of students

    Independent, combination of interests, studious.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Kerry from Hugo, MN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    If your looking for a college where you simply learn the material for the test day and then forget it afterwards, don't come to Allegheny. If you want a college where you will remember what you learned months or even years ago, Allegheny is the place for you! Classes are never too big. Even in the biggest classes on campus (which are less than 80) professors still give students time for discussion and individualized attention. Professors work with you one on one in their office hours to make sure you understand everything they have taught in class and will not leave until they are sure you understand.
    Am enjoying being here

    I wont lie, there is a lot of work here, but the work always has a purpose and there's also a lot of playtime. The school routinely has lecturers, concerts, and late night activities. Many professors also give credit, or extra credit to go see a lecture during the evening. If you keep up with work, you can easily go out and enjoy an evening with friends on campus or even downtown.
    Bang for the buck

    Allegheny is a bit pricy, but it also offers the most aid of any other college. Besides the numerous scholarships offered to incoming freshmen Allegheny will work very closely with you and your family to make sure you attend despite any financial issues. Also, as I said before, Allegheny professors are more then willing to take the extra step to help you understand everything, even outside of what they taught you. Also ACCEL, the career services on campus will do whatever it takes to help you achieve your goals after graduation. When you walk into anyone's office at Allegheny they give you their full attention, as if you are the only student they will be seeing for that entire day. They will help you 100% of the way.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are determined to do well in college and are willing to take that extra step to achieve your goals then you will most certainly succeed at Allegheny. You must also be willing to brave the beautiful, snowy Meadville winters.
    Great for these types of students

    Allegheny's slogan is unusual combinations which is in every way true. If you're like me and you have an obscure path of study you wish to pursue then Allegheny is definitely your school! To put that slogan in perspective, I started college as a French Major, Biology Minor on the Pre-Med track which is not the most unusual combination that school has seen. So if you know what you want to do, or even if you don't, but you have some unusual combinations of interests then check out Allegheny. You wont be disappointed!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Alicia from Kaukauna, WI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Allegheny College provides small class sizes that ensure the most effective environment to foster a deep understanding of the class content and material. This small class size also allows for more ease in forming bonds and not only relationships, but also friendships, with faculty and staff members. However, even though classes are small, the education provided to the students is not cut short and compares with some of the top colleges in the nation – as Allegheny continues to be nationally ranked as one of the best Liberal Arts colleges in the country. I was always skeptical about these types of claims, even when the criteria are provided. But Allegheny has made me a believer. The courses and workload are rigorous, but you will always walk away having learned a lot and feeling enriched. It is often difficult for students to feel that what they are learning has any application to the real world. But here at Allegheny, the professors use a variety of teaching approaches that present you with the material in a way makes you understand and learn it, already seeing its applications.
    Am enjoying being here

    In all honesty, Allegheny was not my first choice, but not a day goes by where I find myself regretting my decision. I come from a very small town, so the small enrollment and small campus really are what made me the most comfortable. However, the level of diversity on campus gives it a somewhat more city feel. Nevertheless, the actually small enrollment and high student involvement provides the opportunity to get to know almost everyone on campus. You will definitely walk away with some lasting friendships and enriched attitudes from your experiences at Allegheny College!
    Bang for the buck

    I will not lie, Allegheny is a somewhat pricey school, and for some students, it is a real challenge. However, being a Liberal Arts college, Allegheny is able to provide many students with grants and scholarships based on merit as well as need. It does not take too much effort, and Allegheny starts handing you money. Obviously, we all wish we had a bit more money sometimes, or that the school we were attending was less expensive, but for the education and experience one can gain here at Allegheny, I would say it is worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    My only tip is to come visit! You will absolutely fall in love with the gorgeous campus (unless you come when the weather makes the snow slushy or when it is incessantly raining). But campus really is beautiful and the people here are one of a kind. You think you are certain of the schools you have chosen, but once you visit, your mind can change. A school can be everything you want on paper, and once you visit, it just may not be right. Your gut feeling about your school options tells you a lot. If it does not feel right, it probably will not be. So come on out and visit; I have a feeling you just might fall in love with it!

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    A sophomore from Southern California

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I've learned quite a lot in my English and biology classes, and have enjoyed them a lot. I'd rate the learning higher if it weren't for my negative experiences with chemistry courses. The chemistry professors I've had aren't very good; they either are okay teachers but ridiculously tough graders or are bad teachers. I've struggled with chemistry and plan on taking a tutor next time I take a chemistry course.
    Am enjoying being here

    The winter weather is a new experience to me. My freshman year, it snowed nonstop; I enjoyed the experience but quickly grew weary of it. This year, fortunately, the weather has been a lot kinder.

    There aren't a lot of exciting things to do in Meadville, the town Allegheny is located in. However, there's a new and old movie theater nearby and a live-performance theater as well.

    There are always parties on the weekend, but I rarely attend. I go to ARGO (the role-playing club) and LAG (the video game club), which meet on Fridays and Saturdays respectively. There are always a lot of people at ARGO/LAG events and I've made quite a lot of friends in it. Whenever my parents ask me what I enjoy the most about Allegheny, I say ARGO and the people in it.
    Bang for the buck

    I received an amazing scholarship. The scholarship made the cost of going cheaper than going to a University of California school. Including the cost of traveling from Pennsylvania to California, its about the same price.

    I'd say that its better then a University of California school, though. There are a few issues with too many students at Allegheny, but that is related to housing, not academics. I've yet to be unable to take a class due to the number of students attending the school, and I haven't heard any stories of people being unable to graduate because they couldn't get a class for their major.

  • 1 person found this inaccurate.

    T,

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The academic programs seem very impressive and inciting.
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus is really nice and the dorms seem reasonable.
    Bang for the buck

    The school is expensive, but it seems like a really good school.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus to see if the location is for you.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who like the more rural, college-town feel.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Brittany from Kenton, OH

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    allegheny is great for academics. the social atmosphere here is great, everyone is very friendly. the staff on campus are very helpful.
    Tips for prospective students

    do not be afraid to be the real you. there are some very interesting people here and that is what they are looking for.
    Academic Rigor

    you are not going to get by without studying. most professors require you to attend class as a part of your grade or for extra credit. do not think you can just float on by with the bare minimum like in high school. this is a tough school.
    Dorm Life

    the dorms are alright. it takes some time getting use to being on your own and living with some one you do not know. but the residence advisers are very friendly and will help you with anything.
    Food and Dining

    the food here is okay but not like food from home. both dining halls pretty much have the same thing. so i would recommend bring lots of snacks and easy mac.
    What to do for fun

    there are lots of activities around campus and many groups you can become involved in. there is not too much to do off campus.
    Bang for the buck

    this school is very expensive. but the academics here are great. i think they could spend a little more on the dorms though.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are a lot of clubs and other activities on campus. there are a lot of different sports to get involved with.
    Campus Safety

    there are several call boxes around campus and there are always security officers around. if you need to be walked back to your dorm when it is dark out you can call and someone will walk you back,

  • Lee from North Huntingdon, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Allegheny is a place for people who have varied interests come together. We are all friendly and outgoing and love building upon the Allegheny community. The professors are approachable and knowledgeable.
    Tips for prospective students

    Bring warm clothes and boots.
    Academic Rigor

    Make sure you study hard, classes here are very difficult.
    Dorm Life

    Living in a dorm is not quite as difficult as one thinks, it is actually a lot of fun.
    Food and Dining

    The food here is pretty decent, especially compared with other colleges in the area.
    What to do for fun

    Join a club!

  • Jennifer from Erie, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Awesome school where the professors know you by name and attempt to help you in any way they can. People of all race/sex/gender/sexuality are accepted here. A great place to learn and prepare yourself for your future.
    Tips for prospective students

    Do not let any opportunities pass you by. Allegheny offers many research sessions with professors, internships, and organizations. Even though the course load can be overwhelming at times, make the most out of your time here.
    Academic Rigor

    There is a lot of work to do but that is the point of going to a highly recognized school. Allegheny is a place to learn and explore what you want to do with your future, not a party school.
    Dorm Life

    A lot of the dorms are older but new ones are being built all the time. Everyone in the dorms is really nice and helpful. I made a lot of great friends by living near them.
    Food and Dining

    Not great but not awful. Look at the menus and find out whichever is most appealing.
    What to do for fun

    Meadville is pretty small but they love having the college here and are very accepting. There are parties on campus on the weekends and many school sponsored activities.
    Bang for the buck

    It is very expensive but in the long run, you will most likely leave here with a job or an acceptance into another school to further your education.

  • Taylor from Canonsburg, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Kaela from Westfield, MA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    allegheny has exceptional employees who are always willing to help and always remember your name. the workload is sometimes unmanageable but i no doubt learn a significant amount every day. the campus is beautiful, but the surroundings are awful.
    Tips for prospective students

    bring heavy duty rain boots, bring a warm coat, stay organized and work on time management skills, get involved in several clubs, partake in community service whenever possible.
    What to do for fun

    movies, fraternity parties, guest lecturers, game room, sledding (in winter), various club events
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    there is a bridge on campus called the rustic bridge. it has been rumored that if an upperclassman man kisses a freshman girl on the 13th plank of that bridge that that woman is ineligible to date anyone else the rest of their college career. each year, a group a freshman guys on campus steal this plank and hide it in their dorm building so that no upperclassmen can take their potential ladies!
    Great for these types of students

    -ambitious
    -hard-working
    -unique
    -open-minded
    -enjoys learning
    -responsible
    Greek Life

    social sororities and fraternities
    sororities
    -alpha chi omega
    -kappa kappa gamma
    -delta delta delta
    -alpha delta pi
    -kappa alpha theta
    fraternities
    -sigma alpha epsilon
    -delta tau delta
    -theta chi
    -phi delta theta
    -phi kappa psi

    greek life on campus is nothing like that on tv or big universities. there is no superiority between the greeks and the non-affiliates. there are no sorority houses but fraternities do have houses on campus. the greek life does not haze here, but is rather a support group on campus.

  • Lucy from Meadville, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    allegheny college is cold, beautiful, and cold. the repetition of the chilly weather is crucial to emphasize the extremity of freezing temperatures. however, despite the weather, the classes are mind-blowing and the friendliness of people will keep you warm.
    Tips for prospective students

    bring about five pairs of super warm boots.

  • Brianne from Catawissa, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    At Allegheny classes are extremely challenging. The school's giving an average course is worth four credits vs the usual three exemplifies this fact. The one thing that really allows you to learn though, is the environment. The great level of difficulty is compensated for by the dedication of the students and faculty. Professors at Allegheny fully understand and convey not only the subjects they teach, but also lessons outside these restrictions. Students here generally care about their learning environment and are encouraged to learn from one another. Because of the inspiring sense of academic enthusiasm at Allegheny College, I am falling in love with learning and plan to seek this type of atmosphere to continue the learning process throughout my life.
    Am enjoying being here

    It's not just about sitting in the library all day. Allegheny College is located in a small town, but don't be fooled; we stay busy. There are monthly Service Saturdays that are a time for students to give back to the tight-knot community at local places like the animal rescue farm, local library, or the home of an elderly citizen. Students are also encouraged to connect with the town of Meadville during First Friday. During this event the school partners with local shops and restaurants to extend business hours and host student activities like free movies or making your own sushi.
    Bang for the buck

    Being a private liberal arts school, Allegheny College sticker price is astronomical. The humorous part is that nobody ever really is forced to pay that amount. The Trustee Scholar Program especially helps in this area, and is one more prestigious group in which to participate. By paying this tuition, students are provided small classes, professors with an open door policy, and the ability to make unusual combinations in creating a major. The flexibility and uniqueness of schedules (classes include Creatures of the Night, Philosophy of Mathematics, The Economics of Discrimination and so many more) not to mention the fresh, local, delicious food included in the meal plan, gives you the most bang for your buck.
    Tips for prospective students

    Stay overnight! The Allegheny Ambassador program connects prospective students directly with a host. Staying in the dorms, trying the showers, eating the food, and talking to future classmates is a much better indication of your happiness here than the 20 minute, sugar-coated admissions tour.
    Great for these types of students

    Those that actually want to learn will love it here. Anybody just looking for resume boosters or a four year party are not likely to enjoy their time at Allegheny College.

  • Morgan from Seward, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors are amazing, and very personable. Classes are challenging, but manageable. You will get out of this education what you put into it. There are many opportunities to talk to professors outside of class, classes are small, and there are tons of on-campus resources to help you make the most of it.
    Am enjoying being here

    I absolutely love Allegheny. The size of the school creates a very familial feeling. It is not uncommon to see fifty people you know on your way to class or lunch. There are tons of clubs and student activities to keep you busy, and Meadville has more to offer than you think. You will make your best friends here.
    Bang for the buck

    It is a private school, so tuition is steep. If you are on this site, you are taking the right approach. Do your best to get as many scholarships as you can, because the education here is well worth the money, if you can afford it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make the most of every moment. Utilize campus resources for personal and academic success. Bring warm clothes, because the Meadville winters can be harsh. Get a lot of sleep, it really makes a difference. Try to keep organized and not procrastinate. It will make your time here a lot easier.
    Great for these types of students

    Self-motivated, independent, and unique students will flourish.

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