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Lake Forest College Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

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

  • 10 out of 10 people found this review useful.

    Kelly

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    If you really want to learn, then you should consider Lake Forest College. Its small class sizes enables for the students to easily establish a relationship with the professor. When one’s stuck, they could easily talk to the professor because (1) they usually know each students’ situation and (2) since they devote themselves in teaching in small classes, they want students to be involved and come up to them. When you talk to them, you can expect them to be caring and grateful for you to come. Before, I was afraid to talk with my teachers. Now, I am more comfortable in talking with my professors. Some I became good friends with. My economics teacher was really nice and easy to talk to that many students always turn to her when they need help.

    Even though Lake Forest is neither Ivy League nor a top school, the curriculum is still rigorous and challenging. I became surprised how rigorous the work was. It was not necessarily easy. The books assigned for my history class were complicated to read, but doable. Plus, their ideas were interesting and important.

    The school offers many resources to its students. It offer writing center, tutoring, etc. I recommend students to visit the writing center no matter what. The tutors really leave you some tips in how to improve their writing. The center also provide standing appointments. This is for students to work with the same tutor each week. Therefore, those who want to improve in one specific area or have a teacher that assign many papers will benefit from this. The school also offered optional academic sessions for the first years to attend to help them transition into college.
    Am enjoying being here

    The setback of being in Lake Forest College is its location. The city of Lake Forest is quite boring. Therefore, students go to nearby cities to hang out. Luckily, downtown Chicago is only located one hour away. However, it is hard to find something to do when you pressed for time.
    Bang for the buck

    Even though I think that the education here is great, I do not think that it should cost almost $50,000 a year. However, they do offer great financial aid so the students can afford it. It ranked in the top 13 for students most happy with their financial aid package. Even if the school cost a lost, many students financial aid package is covered by a good amount.
    Tips for prospective students

    Go to the writing center even if you think that your writing skills are good.
    Always find opportunities and reasons to talk to the professors. They really like it when you do.
    Attend global mosaic. It is really fun!

    If accepted, attend pre-orientation. It is much more funner than the real orientation.
    And again, talk to whoever you encounter through even if they are not your professor. The school is pretty small, so they will remember you if you gave them a good first expression. What's the benefit of this? Connections or they might even become your teacher.
    Great for these types of students

    For those who highly value in their education.
    For those who want to be in a class of small numbers of student.
    For those who want a less/need stressing and distracting environment.
    For those who are interested in international/culture.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Ruth from Waukegan, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Every Teacher adds his/her own personal experience in what they are teaching, they are always excited about what they teach and are very helpful!
    Am enjoying being here

    Students are very nice as well as professor and everyone working here! the Cafeteria is great! Especially since its being renovated...the food is great---buffet style!
    Bang for the buck

    Financial Aid is awesome and they have great payment plans!
    Tips for prospective students

    Get the most of what is being offered....you're paying for it!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Forester '12

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Academics at LFC are much more intense than I ever thought that they would be. Professors demand a lot from students, and the coursework in general is very writing intensive (even if you are a math major!) I feel that the focus on writing gives Lake Forest College students an edge in the job market over other small liberal arts colleges-- being able to accurately express yourself on paper is a lifelong skill that many employers look for and appreciate.
    Am enjoying being here

    I have thoroughly enjoyed myself at Lake Forest College. A common complaint is that there is nothing to do at Lake Forest-- but it is my belief that people who say that don't take advantage of Lake Forest's many resources. There are always events on campus to get involved in or someone down the hall to have an adventure with. Also, Chicago is right around the corner, which was a major factor when I applied. The city has become like an extra professor for me, and teaches me more about myself every day.
    Bang for the buck

    While Lake Forest College is very expensive, what I am getting for my money is well worth the expense. While I receive financial aid, I wish I had taken advantage of even more of Lake Forest's great resources. Because the school is so small, students can meet directly with aid officers who know them by name and individual financial situation.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't fall into ruts. Take chances. Love opportunities. I come from a tiny Appalachian town in Ohio where my neighbors consisted of cows and Amish people. Now I am at Lake Forest, succeeding beyond what I thought was possible-- all because I made a choice to go to a school that wasn't safe for me or my family. Who would have thought that a student from Coshocton, Ohio could be working at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris, France? And there I was (fall 2010) thanks to my initiative and Lake Forest's opportunities.
    Great for these types of students

    Driven students who are interested in small class sizes, personal attention from professors, and have the willingness to take responsibility and make the most of their education.

  • Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Academic Rigor

    Lake Forest academics are can be challenging but also engaging and interesting.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are great for making connections and meeting other students.
    Food and Dining

    The caf often has made to order items and other specialties.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students who want to go to a relatively small school that is right near lake michigan and close to Chicago. Great for students that want to personally get to know their professors.

  • Wonderful Liberal Arts College

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Lake Forest College is a fairly academically rigorous college with small class sizes and opportunities available for individual study and focus. Campus life is fun, but there are few opportunities in Lake Forest. Fortunately, Chicago and Evanston are nearby, and the Center for Chicago Programs offers plenty of student resources.
    Tips for prospective students

    - Go to the Center for Chicago Programs (CCP). They have a calendar posted with events in Chicago that is color-coded by event type (many posted are free!). They also offer discounted 10-ride passes for the Metra, which saves money on transportation to Chicago and Evanston (a college town with wonderful restaurants and shops).
    -Don't be afraid to talk to your professors. The staff is known for being extremely helpful because of the small size of classes.
    -Look for a job! If you need a little extra financial help, the Career Advancement Center can hook you up with internships or jobs on and off-campus. During the first few weeks of school, many of the local business in Uptown Lake Forest also hire sales associates.
    -The Writing Center and Math Center are the place to go for help. Professionals and student workers can help with any math problem or essay imaginable.
    Academic Rigor

    Classes are relatively rigorous, depending on the level and particular professor or field. Most classes are writing-intensive, except many of the computer science and math classes. The professors expect a lot out of everyone because they are genuinely concerned about every student's academic achievements. No matter the professor, they will be a large help if you simply go and ask them. Although some classes are difficult, the quality of each class is high. Lake Forest College is a great college to receive a liberal arts education.
    Dorm Life

    Although I know students often have difficulty with roommates, the dorms themselves are beautiful. There is currently both academic and all-female housing available. While there is usually a substance-free dorm, the dorm is being completely renovated and will be available again in Fall 2013. Nollen and Deerpath are the newest residence halls, and Harlan and Blackstone are the most historic. There are quad spaces available with balconies for an apartment feel, and there are also several apartments available on campus. Cleavland-Young is the international house, and has a kitchen available for use to every student on campus. The college recently opened up the opportunity for students to live off-campus in the Fort Sheridan Apartments as part of a housing plan. The dorms are cleaned well, as general maintenance is updated regularly, but I have heard of a small bug problem in some dorms that is easily taken care of each year.
    Food and Dining

    There have been a lot of complaints with Aramark, but the company listens and learns from student input. There is only one dining hall, which often serves repetitive meals, but there is still a wide variety of options available (pizza, buffet, dessert, ice cream, sandwich bar, wrap bar, and a special bar which usually consists of pasta or tacos). Aramark has vegetarian and vegan options available that have become increasingly better. They also have a special gluten-free station for those with allergies. The smaller cafes are a great place to get a snack, and the POD has ready-made sandwiches, as well as regular produce like a gas station might have.
    What to do for fun

    As mentioned previously, Evanston and Chicago are the places to go for fun. Lake Forest is small, and there is nothing to do for the college students. Noodles & Company and Dominoes are both popular delivery options, and there are two cheap pizza places and a pub in Uptown Lake Forest. The college also has a shuttle that regularly goes to Jewel (the grocery store) and Target. It also goes to several large malls and a movie theater a few times a week. The beach is also just a short walk away!
    Bang for the buck

    Although the college is expensive, it is an overall wonderful experience that is entirely worth it. The college gives out a large amount of financial aid, and it is not difficult to find a job if needed. The professors are helpful and many are renowned. Even though the town is small, there are still plenty of things to do in the area that are cheap or free. Be sure to make use of the sports center and health center, as you pay for them every year.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Incoming first-years are initiated into the college through a ceremony called Matriculation. There is a big cookout, followed by a group picture, a walk through campus, and a ceremony.
    Great for these types of students

    -Students looking for small class sizes and helpful professors
    -Students looking for a private, liberal arts college that is near to an urban area
    -Students who are looking to independently study or double major/minor
    -Students looking for a beautiful, green campus
    Clubs and Activities

    -Greek life is available and encouraged, though few participate. There is, however, a great community within Greek life.
    -There are varsity, club, and intramural sports, plus a recently renovated gym with a dance studio, and both weights and cardio equipment.
    -At the beginning of each semester, there is a fair held with booths from every type of organization imaginable. Students are also encouraged to make their own clubs!
    Greek Life

    As stated above, Greek life is not entirely too popular. However, participation in their events is. There are several events hosted by each sorority and fraternity that benefit non-profits. Greek life at Lake Forest College has a strict no-hazing policy, and is known for being academically focused and community service driven.
    Campus Safety

    There is a daily crime log available, but there is never anything major on the list. Public safety and residence life do a wonderful job enforcing safety, and public safety offers pick-up and drop-off in local areas under unsafe conditions and emergencies.

  • Gerard from Chicago, IL

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    An amazing school, I immediately feel in love with the school once I set foot on campus!
    Tips for prospective students

    Have the interview if you are serious about coming! sit in on a class with professor and chat with a professors. I am already friends with a few professors and I wont be attending till this fall!
    Academic Rigor

    For what I seen while siting in on a physics class, the teacher and students are very involved and the professor actually knows how to teach!
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are very spacious and I heard little issue of people having issues with dorm partner.
    Food and Dining

    The food is great! I am a vegetarian and I was able to have many options. All you can eat style!
    Campus Safety

    very safe. I often come on the Metra and walk to campus. It is quite and beautiful. You cant ask for a safer environment.

  • Bryanna from Chicago, IL

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Lake Forest is a fun and friendly environment. The scenery is beautiful. The food is delicious.
    Tips for prospective students

    The campus is pretty quiet and small, but the people there are friendly.

  • Chelsey from CHICAGO, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    lake forest college is an intensive, liberal arts school. with a diverse and broad range of studies and activities, students are able to explore many aspects. thus, this college is bound to encourage and support a student's future career.
    Tips for prospective students

    responsibility is key. being able to manage academics and extracurricular activities must be done. in order to enjoy all realms of college, having the ability to manage all subjects is imperative.
    Academic Rigor

    classes at lake forest college not only challenges the students, but also push them to go beyond the standards and the norm. with intensive professors and workloads, students are pushed to strive for the best. any class a student takes is bound for an unique experience.
    Dorm Life

    the residence halls on campus supports the needs of all students. from substance-free dorm rooms to apartments, students' needs are taken into consideration. with the help and support from resident assistants and resident directors, they continue to strive in creating a safe environment for students.
    Food and Dining

    with aramark as our main sponsor for food and dining at lake forest, the overall food and service is amazing. students have numerous options to choose from. from chinese to greek, various foods are displayed and offered daily.

  • Casey from Lake Forest, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    it is a very close-knit community, where students and faculty are able to collaborate at a personal level. the academics are challenging as well as engaging for all students. their athletics have very much improved in the four years being here.
    Tips for prospective students

    do not fall into peer pressure. just because roommates drink, does not mean that you have to. also, if there is a roommate situation that makes you uncomfortable, do not be afraid to contact an ra and move.
    Academic Rigor

    a very prestigious institute that opens the door to many internship opportunities aroung the college community as well as the city of chicago.
    Dorm Life

    again, if there is an uncomfortable living situation do not be afraid to leave. the physical conditions are relatively decent nonetheless. the only issue with the physical conditions would probably be the start of the school year, where it is really hot and you need about 4 fans.
    Food and Dining

    there have been dramatic improvements to the dining hall that i believe took a turn for the better. however, there was a lull in the services when the same food was prepared daily for about a week.
    What to do for fun

    visiting chicago - probably one of the top three reasons on why i chose to come to the college. public trasportation is right up the road to take you to and from various destinations on the metra.

  • Rebecca from Woodstock, IL

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The small classes work really well for people who need the one-on-one attention with teachers!
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus is gorgeous!!
    Bang for the buck

    The price is high because the money goes towards the education. With bigger schools, it's all about the attitude of it. Not Lake Forest!

  • Pleasantly Surprised '13

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I transferred to LFC from a larger school of over 15,000 students. The class size at the larger school made learning and studying extremely independent. Coming to a school of less than 1,500 students was a big change. The smaller lectures and lab allow the professors to interact more with the students. The material is challenging, but interesting. As a science major, there is a lot of hands-on lab work which is really important.
    Am enjoying being here

    The community of students and professors is one of the best things about Lake Forest College. There are so many organizations to join, activities to participate in and events to attend. Getting involved is worthwhile at this school because of opportunities to show leadership
    Bang for the buck

    Lake Forest College has been well worth my time and money. In terms of education, there are huge opportunities for internships, studying abroad and research. The college has great facilities, opportunities and resources that extend beyond the campus.
    Tips for prospective students

    Choosing a college should be based on what is best for you as a student. Consider your needs as a student. Learning from my own mistakes, a college should never be chosen or not chosen out of fear, or social pressure.
    Great for these types of students

    In general, Lake Forest College is great for anyone who wants to be challenged academically with interesting material. Lake Forest is definitely for someone who wants smaller class sizes where professors are extremely accessible and enthusiastic about their work.

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