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Saint Mary's College Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

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

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful. 1 person found this inaccurate.

    Joan from Sharps Chapel, TN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The class sizes are small so one can ask questions and get one-on-one help. And it is not true that professors do not care about academic progress. They do and will even go out of their way to make sure you understand the class concepts and succeed.
    Am enjoying being here

    I know it is an all girls school but I have met some really awesome friends here. And I have also met a lot of people from Notre Dame University and Holy Cross College. Watching Notre Dame football on Saturdays is always awesome. If you are not into sports there are intramural teams you can join with your friends to just play for fun. Winter seems to take forever but I have never had so much fun in the snow. The professors and classes are great. Some of the general education classes can feel slow and dumb but they are included to help you. You will learn more than you expect. If you organize your time well you can have good grades and a social life too!
    Bang for the buck

    With the opportunities that one has, the money is well worth it. Not to mention the financial aid office is there to help to make sure every student gets the aid they need. There are also scholarships available for academics and sports.
    Tips for prospective students

    My first tip is always try to at least visit the school you are considering. If your heart is set on Notre Dame University, Saint Mary's College is a great alternative. An all girls college may seem out-of-date but the level of academic excellence here is incomparable. You will not be disappointed!
    Great for these types of students

    Choosing a college is not an easy thing. If school size is important, Saint Mary's has the best of both worlds by being small sized yet closely tied with Notre Dame University. On top of that, it is a spectacular female liberal arts college. Art majors; Literature majors; Engineering majors; Nursing majors; Math majors; Science majors; Saint Mary's College will help you reach your goals.

  • 3 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Jillian from South Bend, IN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Classes are tough, but to be honest, I learned more in the first year of college than I did my whole high school career. It is totally worth it!! Do not skip class a lot, especially math classes, because on the day you think you won't be doing anything special, it turns out to be the worst day in the world to skip! No joke.
    Am enjoying being here

    South Bend is not the most exciting town to live in. Football weekends here seem to be the most fun. There are a lot of things to do off campus, you just have to try really hard to find stuff. I recommend going to ND to eat a few nights a week. You meet some cool people and therefore, you have more connections as to what to do on weekends.
    Bang for the buck

    Saint Mary's is awesome. Not only did I learn a ton while being there, I made friends that will be there for me whenever I need them. It is totally worth the money and they offer many scholarships, along with grants and loans. Financial Aid is so helpful, and even if you don't think you need any aid, check it out!
    Tips for prospective students

    I was a freshman last year and lived in Le Mans Hall, which is a dorm for any age student. To first year students I would recommend living in McCandless since it is primarily freshmen living there. You get to meet a whole bunch of freshman and it makes it easier. I regret not choosing to live there because I felt like I would have made a lot more friends. I know, I know, all the other dorms are so much more lovely, but in the end you will agree that you think it was one of the best decisions you could ever make. As for the classes, they are tough! Make sure you do your assigned reading. Don't be afraid to ask a professor for help either. They are more than willing to work with you on whatever issue you may be having.
    Great for these types of students

    This college is great for students who love to excel in school, but also for those students who need a little extra help in the classroom. Professors are really nice. Make sure to get their email though because that is the best way to get a hold of them. The small class sizes make it easy to talk amongst the class and since it is mainly girls, some feel more comfortable. Plus, you get to go to class in your pajamas!!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Tania from Mishawaka, IN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    i love the atmosphere here. the campus is beautiful and safe. my classmates and professors are very friendly.
    Tips for prospective students

    do your work on time and do not get behind on homework.
    Academic Rigor

    there is always some type of school work to do.
    Dorm Life

    i live off-campus
    Food and Dining

    there's a huge variety of what you can eat here at the dining area.
    What to do for fun

    saint mary's offers a variety of student activities and athletic clubs and sports.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Brianna from Beloit, WI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Saint Mary's College is a beautiful all-women's Catholic college located across the street for Notre Dame University and next door to Holy Cross College. There are currently around 1600 students, so the class sizes are small and the professors know their students. The school provides many opportunities for the women, such as a variety of majors, a large network to aid in job applications, and a chance to take classes at the other two schools.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are thinking of coming to Saint Mary's, I would definitely suggest visiting the campus first. On different visit days, you have the opportunity to meet the other women that already attend the school or also plan on attending. This is a great way to see if you fit the environment of the school. If you do come to Saint Mary's as a student, get involved. There are a variety of clubs and organizations. This is an excellent way to meet people with similar interests and at the beginning being involved can help you get over any homesickness you may be feeling.
    Academic Rigor

    Many of the courses at Saint Mary's are very challenging and demanding. The professors expect a lot out of their students because they want them to go far. If you are struggling in a course, there are different centers around campus to help. Your professors will also be happy to help you, most of them care for you as if you are their own child (a great perk of being at a small school).
    Dorm Life

    The dorms at Saint Mary's vary greatly. Some of the rooms now used as dorms originally had other purposes, so there are rooms with sinks, bathrooms, walk-in closets, high ceilings, or all of the above. In the newer buildings, the rooms are much more consistent. There is one building, which is also one of the newer ones, that is mostly freshmen. The other newer building is split into three sections. One section has classrooms, another is for senior housing, and the third is general housing. The oldest building is known for it's high ceilings and for having the largest variation in what you will have in your room. The most popular building has the most housing and has the administrative buildings located on the first floor. As a general rule for Saint Mary's girls, you do not throw a party in your dorm, you go over to Notre Dame for this. Let the boys make a mess of their rooms.
    Food and Dining

    Our dining hall is located in the Student Center, where you can also find the Cyber Cafe. The dining hall food is pretty average for a college. It is better than the food at Holy Cross, but not as good as the food at Notre Dame. Favorite things in the dining hall are personalized pizza on Friday nights and make your own waffle station, open mornings and all weekend. We also have a salad bar and a sandwich bar, a grill station, a vegetarian station, an international station, a bistro station, cereal that is always available, ice cream and frozen yogurt machine, and various microwavable foods availble. And if you miss a meal, are hungry when the dining hall isn't open, or just don't want to eat at the dining hall, you can walk next door to the Cyber Cafe.
    What to do for fun

    There are a large variety of clubs or organizations that you could become involved in. There are also many events that take place throughout the year. One weekly event is Sundaes on Sunday. They have an ice cream bar open and show movies in one of the theatres for this event. You can also become involved in clubs and organizations over at Notre Dame.
    Bang for the buck

    Saint Mary's is a very expensive college from my perspective. However, the education is very worth it.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There is a labyrinth on the campus as well as a cemetry. Interesting fact, in the cemetry they have the graves marked of all the nuns that were nurses in the Civil war by a second tombstone. As for traditions, freshmen from Notre Dame, Saint Mary's, and Holy Cross are invited to Domerfest over at Notre Dame to get to know each other. Soon after, there is another all school event for all the students at Saint Mary's called Belle's Bash. Saint Mary's also has a yearly event called Tostal. If you want to know what these are, come to the school. Or just look them up on the website.
    Great for these types of students

    Saint Mary's is an excellent place for students who fall within the upper middle class. If you are among the lower middle class or the working class, you tend to feel a little out of place, however coming to the college is still a great opportunity. There are certain types of girls that usually attend the school, but you really have to visit to see if you are one.
    Clubs and Activities

    You can see a full list of the clubs and organizations on Saint Mary's website. There is something for everyone.
    Greek Life

    None. However, Saint Mary's is known as one big sorority.
    Campus Safety

    Students can call campus security for rides when the buses have stopped running late at night. There is a van called Blinky that runs between the campuses after the buses to pick up Saint Mary's students and bring them back to campus so they don't have to walk. If you have been assaulted, we have an entire office devoted to helping you out. The only thing I'm ever worried about on campus is the old men that take jogs during the day. I assume they are rich and looking for a young, beautiful bimbo, so they really aren't any harm.

  • Mandy from Granger, IN

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Academic Rigor

    Very average difficultly. I expect more from a college that would like to be perceived as a prestigious Women's College. It may have been difficult at some point in history, but not now.
    Dorm Life

    If you get Le Mans or Holy Cross you are fine, but Regina is a pit.
    Food and Dining

    Very average food, but decent hours. Thanksgiving dinner is good!
    What to do for fun

    Students just go to ND. Many students are overly boy-crazy, and are not positively perceived in the community. This is not all students at the institution, but it is a reputation that at least impacts ALL students at SMC.
    Bang for the buck

    You can get a lot more for the over $41,000 that it will cost you to attend per year. It really all depends on how much of a scholarship you get, but (in general) does the tuition/fees/board price tag match the quality of education and experience? No.
    Clubs and Activities

    Some on campus stuff, and plenty to do at ND
    Campus Safety

    Very safe, but security will not hesitate to ticket your car.

  • Class of 2015

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    A very warm and supportive atmosphere. A small campus, with very involved faculty and a close community. Comes with most of the benefits of the larger school, Notre Dame, across the way, but also with the drawbacks of stereotypes from Domers.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you value a close relationship with your professors and academic advisor, this is definitely a good place for you. If you are an elementary education or nursing major, especially, YOU WILL NOT BE ALONE. Also, the science program just received a large endowment, so if you are interested in that, look for big improvements in offered facilities.
    Academic Rigor

    Not necessarily a difficult school, although it can be as challenging as you make it. If you work and apply yourself, it can really prepare your for life after graduation. One thing that girls complain about and tend to have difficulties with, though, is the required W class- a special writing requirement.
    Dorm Life

    A very warm community! Some rooms can be pretty small, especially singles, and especially in the Regina building. The hallways are almost always active, though, and you will almost definitely be friends with your neighbors!
    Food and Dining

    The food is not so great. It is SODEXO, a fairly common college food supplier. As far as most college food goes, it's good, but if you get permission to eat a few days at Notre Dame, you might start to complain some more. Like any dining hall, I'd imagine, the food choice gets monotonous and boring after a while, but it is all edible and nice quality.
    What to do for fun

    There is so much to do! I never understand the girls who say that they are bored. There are a million clubs and activities, and always lectures and special events going on every week, most nights. And if there isn't enough here, we have access to all of the clubs and activities over at Notre Dame!
    Bang for the buck

    The financial aid is pretty good. I mean, we all wish there was more, but as far as colleges go...
    Greek Life

    Nonexistent at Saint Mary's.
    Campus Safety

    It's a small campus, and security patrols often, and is close and available at all hours

  • Shelby from Phoenix, AZ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Saint Mary's College is an excellent school, it has a welcoming environment and provides wonderful education by friendly professors. I am very happy in choosing this school because it provides so many opportunities and I made so many great friends. These next three years will be full of experiences, and I will be looking forward to them.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definitely sign up for classes that sound appealing to you, and get along well with your professors, they will help you with anything you need.
    Academic Rigor

    The work course is not difficult, but it's tedious.
    Dorm Life

    It all depends on where you're dorming. All dorms are different. I was in Holy Cross and I was very content with it.
    Food and Dining

    It's not the best, but it's healthy.
    What to do for fun

    Sign up for all the activities on campus. They're worth it.

  • Nicole from Lemont, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The classes are really small, so the professors really get to know each student as an individual. They really care about how you do in their class and will go out of their way to make sure that you get the help you need in classes. Although classes can be challenging, you really learn a lot in them.
    Am enjoying being here

    I really enjoy being at SMC. Everyone is always nice and there's a really good atmosphere here. It's like a sisterhood.
    Bang for the buck

    You really get the benefits of both Saint Mary's and Notre Dame's campuses while only paying for one school. You can do clubs and classes at both schools and can easily get to ND. Although Saint Mary's doesn't have much going on over the weekends, you can still go to ND and participate in activities.
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for girls who want to get the most out of an education without worrying about being judged. It's for girls who will work hard in a really tight knit community.

  • Adrienna from Holland, MI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    They say college is the best time of your life and they don't lie. Saint Mary's you to grow as a strong, independent woman. You get to figure out who you want to be and how you can go about being that person. The school allows several different opportunities to get a feel for who you are without being controlling. I have learned a lot about myself over the past two years then I ever thought I would.
    Am enjoying being here

    Although I do get homesick every now and then, Saint Mary's really does feel like a second home. The young women you begin to call your friends act just like your sisters. We say that Saint Mary's is just a big sorority and we really mean it. From the teachers to the student body you never feel out of place.
    Bang for the buck

    I am not going to lie, going to any college, especially Saint Mary's, is very expensive. My mother is a single parent so you can image how I felt coming to SMC. The one thing I do like to tell prospective students is that if you really want to come here, financial aid will work with you to do as much as possible to make sure you can afford to come. Whatever the price tag is, you will never feel like you are wasting money. We have access to great professors, many who have hold the highest degree possible for their subject, wonder staff, and plenty of resources. The one thing I love the most is that we have complete access to Notre Dame. We can use their library, take classes over there, attend sporting events, and many other things. We call it the best of both worlds.
    Tips for prospective students

    My advice for any high school senior is to make sure this is your decision. Your parents might be paying your tuition but your the one attending the classes and getting an education. You don't want their money to go to waste. Whenever possible, go visit the schools you're interested in. Make sure that college is a place you can see yourself in for the next couple of years.
    Great for these types of students

    Anyone who is a female of course! Outgoing, wanting to learn more about themselves, friendly, charismatic, hard working, easy going, social, dedicated, and can enjoy Notre Dame football.

  • Therese from Cherry Valley, IL

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    Most of the class sizes are small, so you can get one on one help easily! The professors are also very good about making themselves available for their students.
    Did enjoy being here

    All the girls here are so nice and inviting!
    Bang for the buck

    Pretty high tuition, but they give you really good financial aid packages! I would say it is worth the money because of all the opportunities they provide for the students.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definitely take advantage of Notre Dame being right across the street!

  • Jillian from Saint John, IN

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I just finished my first year at SMC, and I am pleased to say that I have learned a great deal. The professors really care about my progress and how much I truly understand the material. They offer multiple opportunities for tutoring when necessary and a wide variety of office hours; I never have to worry about going to talk to one either because they are friendly and accommodating. I was also happy to see many things I learned applied in my life, including during everyday conversations with people at work. I am excited to return to Saint Mary's to continue learning.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love being in South Bend. Saint Mary's offers a variety of activities to get involved and meet new people. I can honestly say that I have made some great friends. The unique clubs, activities, and organizations provide something for everyone to enjoy. I was also lucky to find a job on campus that allowed me to make great friends. Furthermore, the close proximity of Notre Dame contributes to the social scene.
    Bang for the buck

    The strong education combined with the variety of opportunities at Saint Mary's is a big benefit. Each class gives a strong intellectual experience. I feel challenged in my classes and know that I am getting my money's worth. In addition, Saint Mary's has the Career Crossings Office to help find jobs after graduation.
    Tips for prospective students

    Getting involved with activities on campus is one of the most important things to do. Meeting new people is beneficial, both during school and after graduation. Finding the balance between going out and studying should be a main priority. Sometimes, taking a study break works wonders for students, but students have to remember why they are at school.
    Great for these types of students

    Saint Mary's is a great place for women who want to get a good education and a strong degree, but also love to meet new people and have fun. Learning leadership skills, independence, and the skill of balancing everything in a great environment is what makes Saint Mary's special. Those searching for these things should definitely consider becoming a Belle.

  • Allison from Battle Creek, MI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    My current intended major is Nursing, but I'm learning so many other great things that I feel more informed about the world than ever before. Not only is St. Mary's good at teaching her students about the past, but also on keeping us updated about current issues. St. Mary's has taught me so much more than just how to be a good student, the school has taught me to be a well rounded, strong individual. The professors are always willing to help and set aside office hours, and more, for students to talk to them. The class sizes are small which makes for a more intimate environment where learning, interpreting, and using information is always happening. I'm only a sophomore and I feel as if I've learned years and years worth of valuable information.
    Am enjoying being here

    Not only are the professors excellent, but the students are wonderful. It is an all girl school and here we are all sisters. And life couldn't be better than having the best of both worlds with Notre Dame right across the street. St. Mary's has many programs available, but if something doesn't catch one's eye she can always go over to Notre Dame where St. Mary's students are more than welcome. Life on, and off campus, is really enjoyable. I am a St. Mary's Woman and I am loving it.
    Bang for the buck

    Like with any education, you get what you put into it. Going to class, keeping up with the homework and studying and anyone will get their bang for their buck. However, St. Mary's class size, good food service, wide variety of programs offered, and quality of education definitely put them ahead of other colleges. It may seem weird but St. Mary's actually cares about their students and knows about the sacrifices many are making to attend this school. For me, St. Mary's has been a good investment.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit. St. Mary's isn't for everyone, like guys for example, but just visiting this beautiful campus takes one's breath away. St. Mary's takes care of not only her current students, but also her prospective students. My first visit was during the summer for a week long retreat and I instantly fell in love. Then quite some time passed before I visited again and I had sort of fallen out of love. But then my next visit was during the school year and I attended some classes, the students and the professors during the time showed me that this is a good place to go, this is the place where I'm meant to be. Doubts? Skepticism? Fears? Visit. Visit. Visit. St. Mary's will take care of them for you.
    Great for these types of students

    All students. I have met all different types of students here. There's introvert, extrovert, drama, education, serious, fun, etc people here. Don't think you can live without boys? Notre Dame! My best friend here is one who tends to hang out with guys more than girls, and she spends a good amount of her time at Notre Dame but loves to be able to come back to the sanctuary of St. Mary's and see her other friends. Yes the atmosphere and experience is different from that of a co-ed school, but I believe it's worth it. The education, the connections, the people, everything is worth it and it certainly shows. St. Mary's accepts all, because here, we are all sisters.

  • Bridget from Monroe, MI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I learn so many new things every day!! Whether it is in class, sports, or just hanging out with my friends, every day is a new experience! Meeting so many new people and doing so many new things has really helped me to grow in the short time I have been here!
    Am enjoying being here

    I absolutely love being here! I know that I made the right decision coming to Saint Mary's College! I can honestly say that it is my favorite place to be! I am so at home here! I found my group of friends and I am having a great time! One of the best parts of being here is that there are so many different kinds of people and everyone can find something they are interested in. Notre Dame and Holy Cross are also great to have around the area! There is always something fun to do.
    Bang for the buck

    Saint Mary's is really expensive but it is completely worth it! I am learning so much in my classes! Being here is a great experience! There are so many privileges that come with being here! You can stay on campus, go to Notre Dame, or Holy Cross just about anytime you would like.
    Tips for prospective students

    Work really hard in your last years of high school, your admission process will only be all that much better if you do! You don't have to be in the top of your class or have a perfect SAT/ACT score to get into Saint Mary's. All they ask is that you do your best! No matter where you end up going, do your best to become friends with your roommate. You don't have to be best friends but it is always nice to have someone to talk to. Get involved as much as possible!
    Great for these types of students

    students who do their best even if they are not the smartest.

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