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Chatham University Pittsburgh, PA

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Chatham University Reviews

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  • 01/18/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    4 out of 5 people found this review useful. 1 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Like small schools, want to be in a big city without all the noise
    Tips for prospective students

    Do your best in school and you will get accepted here. Also apply for a lot of scholarships because its really expensive to go here. Do the World Ready Women's Weekend to get the scholarship. You can get up to $5000 and you get $1000 for just going.
    Bang for the buck

    You pay a lot to go to this school, but i feel like you could be paying less for the same education.
  • 09/09/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 2 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    -This school is great for anyone who cares about the environment (it's extraordinarily involved with going green). -It is an all women college, but the graduate classes ARE co-ed. There ARE men on campus. But they are not as abundant as women. -Don't come here if you're looking for a partying school. It is a fun place, but it is more academic than anything. This is a place for serious women who want to learn how to be leaders!
    Tips for prospective students

    -Budget and get as many scholarships as you can. -Engage the campus if you're coming! -Get to know your professors on a personal level. -Make friends with the library workers, maintenance workers, and the higher-ups. It's a small school and the more people you know, the better off you are when you're in trouble.
    Bang for the buck

    Chatham is an expensive school. There is no doubt about that. When we got our bill, it was estimated to be about 21k a semester. If you want to go here and don't want to drown in debt, GET EVERY SCHOLARSHIP YOU CAN! Or get a job. There are absurd amounts of jobs offered on campus alone. Whatever you do, stay on top of your FAFSA and budget! Also, you get a laptop for free, so if you're planning on coming here, skip out on buying a new one and enjoy a new Macbook Pro! (All maintenance is done for free as well if you ever have a problem!)
    Am enjoying being here

    There is so much to do on and off campus. Even the classes are fun. If you are willing to apply yourself and try new things, you'll never be bored or unhappy here.
    Am learning a lot

    Classes are very nice. I am only taking first year courses at the moment, but everything I am learning is either going to be beneficial to me in the real world, or help me in my career. It is nice because if Chatham doesn't offer the class you want, you can duel-enroll with any of the classes that Pitt offers!
  • 03/11/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 3 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    theres an officer that patrols all the time. also an alert system incase of an emergency.
    Greek Life

    no sorry, but i believe the neighboring school pit and carnegie mellon has some really great greek nights and food.
    Clubs and Activities

    theres plenty of clubs and activities on campus to join if you have time from classes. like volleyball, hockey, tennis, dance team, peaches. etc
    Bang for the buck

    everything depends on your financial circumstance.
    What to do for fun

    theres plenty of clubs and activities on campus to join if you have time from classes. you also can use your school id as a free bus pass to go many places and get into free places with your school id.
    Food and Dining

    im sorry to say the food sucks here; especially if your a vegetarian as myself no options at all. i once saw in the vegetarian section french fries and cucumbers wow yumm. so i would say its best to live off campus, so you wont be forced to have a meal plan and make sure to cook your own food.
    Dorm Life

    its ok in the dorm im in; but its really old and expensive. i feel for the amount you have to pay a semester, the building should be more equipped.
    Academic Rigor

    i am an interior architecture major and it is a hard an rigorous program; especially since everything is crammed into 3 years. its fun and you learn a lot of things, but i do believe to much work is given for such a small time period.
    Tips for prospective students

    i would say work hard and do your best. everyone is really close and friendly, you wont have any problems here.
    In three sentences

    chatham university is a fine, well put together school. only if your looking for a small community of close friends, lots of fun and activities and to work hard.
  • 06/28/2011

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 4 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the school before attending and meet the professors in your department! Definitely make sure that your major is still going to be around when you get to the University.
    Bang for the buck

    Got rid of tenure for the professor which caused them to lose a lot of great professors which then cause some majors to get dropped.
    Did enjoy being here

    To much drama since it was an all women's college. The staff could also be a little uncooperative and unfriendly at times. The financial aid office was filled with incompetent persons, thank god I was a math major.
    Did learn a lot

    Had tons of great classes and the study abroad during Maymester was amazing! I would definitely recommend doing a whole semester abroad if you can find a place you like.
  • 06/01/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 5 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    There are officers patrolling 24/7, and someone is always on call, so it is very safe. Especially since you know the majority of the people there so it is easy to tell if someone unknown is acting suspiciously.
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a club for everything, and if there isn't you can make one. Athletics is a big part of the school too, about 75% of the undergrad students are involved in a sport. But it is extremely hard to recruit because of the school's small size and lack of available scholarships.
    Great for these types of students

    Small class sizes are great, so if you don't like to just be a number to your professor, or like me like it when that one math teacher you had three years ago for a single class still remembers your name and asks how you are doing when you see them on campus, you'll love it. Also it's all girls in the undergraduate program, so if you are gay, questioning, or just open to anything, the Chatham community will welcome you with open arms.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Chatham is in a historical area, lots of old mansions on campus, it is absolutely beautiful. There are house Olympics, class wars and many other student events and traditions that give Chatham a unique atmosphere that is hard to come by in larger schools.
    Bang for the buck

    Chatham is a private school and therefore very expensive, especially if you are from out of state or are an international student like myself. But I would say that it makes up for it with the small class sizes that for me personally are essential to furthering my education.
    What to do for fun

    Shadyside has lots of little bars and restaurants that are fun, as well as a couple clubs, all within a 5-10 minute walk from campus. The public transportation is great and you can get to anywhere you like pretty easily if you know the routes. There are student rush games that you can get tickets to the Pittsburgh Penguins or Pirates games for $20, there are tons of museums, the Duquesne incline up the mountain as well as a great zoo. There is always something that you can find to do regardless of where your interests lie.
    Food and Dining

    The dining hall is great at providing lots of organic foods from local farmers, as well as many vegan and vegetarian options. However, it is sometimes the same kind of food everyday so it gets old. On the other hand, Chatham is a five minute walk from both Shadyside and Squirrel Hill which both have an abundance of trendy little cafes and restaurants. As well as a ten minutes shuttle ride (provided at no cost by the school) to Oakland, where both the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University have their campuses.
    Dorm Life

    I love that the freshmen dorms, except for one are renovated mansions. They are smaller in size so you know a lot of the people that you live with, which is great, its like your own little community. The on campus appartments aren't bad either, not as historically appealing, but still very small. This is also nice because you know the majority of the girls in your building, so it feels very safe. Chatham also holds dorm Olympics that are good team building exercises that alternately bring out people's competitive side as well as the team player in all of us.
    Academic Rigor

    I think that while it could be said that classes are easy, because they are very small and you know your professor pretty well, the work load is sometime really heavy. For those that will be graduating in the next couple years, like myself, we have to write a tutorial, which is like an undergraduate version of a dissertation. For those exempt from this, Chatham has implemented new writing intensive classes that are mandatory. So it is by no means an easy ride.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be aware of the fact that it is a really small school, and a majorly girls school at that. Be careful who you choose to hang out with because it can be like high school, everyone knows you and talks about you. Try to get off campus and see the city, meet people from the other universities and just experience Pittsburgh, its is a great city with so much to offer. Don't get stuck on Chatham campus because it is so small and you will literally see and talk to the same people every day.
    In three sentences

    This is a great school if you are looking for small classes and a more personal relationship with your professors and fellow students. It is a little secluded due to its small size, but there are a ton of opportunities to meet new people and have fun because of its convenient location. While like many schools Chatham has its flaws, but overall it is a great place to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree.
  • 06/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 6 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Chatham is hidden, and secluded. There is a private road to get to the school. Only people who live in the area or go to the school are ever found on campus. It is in a very low crime area (between Squirrel Hill and Shadyside). Chatham also has it's own police force and headquarters to add extra security.
    Greek Life

    There is no Greek Life on campus. Chatham students can go to the University of Pittsburgh or Carnegie Mellon frats and sororities if they so wish.
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a club for everything at Chatham from juggling to crocheting. Any student can make a club and reserve an area for their club to meet. Chatham also offers a wide range of intramural sports that any member of the school (grad or undergrad) can participate in.
    Great for these types of students

    Chatham is great for feminists, environmentalists, writers, very liberal people, and serious students.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Chatham has a yearly dance called the Chatham Eggnog. This dance is either in late November or early December. The choir performs and the whole school gathers and has eggnog. Afterwards the students join each other in dancing.
    Bang for the buck

    Chatham University is an expensive school. However it is worth the price. Most classes have less than 15 people in them. You receive a Macbook built into the tuition price. You have free access to all of the building and facilities on campus. Chatham gives out a lot of free apparel. It is a very individualized education.
    What to do for fun

    I will go for a swim in the pool, hangout with my friends at Cafe Rachel, go to frat parties at university of Pittsburgh, and support the athletic teams at home games.
    Food and Dining

    The food starts out pretty good but after a while you get sick of it. All of the food is really salty and sometimes they try too hard to have unique dishes.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are awesome. They are built in converted mansions so there is an old majestic feeling to them. They are huge rooms. The laundry is free to use, the bathrooms are clean, and the people are friendly.
    Academic Rigor

    Some classes were very easy while others were harder. Overall I found academic success while putting in a decent amount of effort. Some professors will be harder than others. Some classes have a heavy workload while others have almost no workload.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you do the volunteering sessions at the start of the year. It is a lot of fun, the food they serve is good and it's a great place to meet new people.
    In three sentences

    Chatham University is a unique college. The undergrad is small and it is all women. The education is very individualized and I like that.
  • 06/25/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    7 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you can afford it. Stay out of the drama.
    Am enjoying being here

    This school is very clique-y (if that's a word). It's an all girls school= drama. A lot of attitudes from EVERYONE.
  • 01/03/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    8 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Students who strive to excel that would appreciate a green and women promoting Chatham University.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you know what major you would like to pursue before you attend Chatham University, so that you can take all the necessary classes and yet still have room for the extra classes that interest you.
    Bang for the buck

    One of Chatham University's downfalls is that it is very expensive. However, there are several scholarship opportunities and jobs available to help you get money.
    Am enjoying being here

    Chatham University helps each student to find something that they would like to participate in. Each year the student affairs provides the students with several different activities and even goes as far to challenge the students to make a group if there is not one already available that they are interested in.
    Am learning a lot

    Chatham University's professors are wonderful at teaching you how to excel at everything that you attempt. The professors are even willing to work with the students to find the best solution to help you learn the absolute maximum without getting you overly stressed.
  • 02/20/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    9 of 24

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    you can take a bus to anywhere in pittsburgh
    Food and Dining

    the dining hall has organic and vegan options, and a full salad bar filled with fresh produce.
    Dorm Life

    the students can either live in apartments, or remodeled mansions.
    Academic Rigor

    my teachers are fantastic and work with me one on one.
    Tips for prospective students

    don't be afraid to go to a community college the first two years. save money and figure out what you really want to do with your education.
    In three sentences

    chatham university is a safe empowering environment where women learn to be professional and strong.
  • 04/10/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    10 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Bang for the buck

    You get great classes and a beautiful environment to study in.
    What to do for fun

    I go out to see shows, I go to parties in Oakland. I go to see shows in the south side.
    Food and Dining

    They have so many option.
    Dorm Life

    There is nothing quite like it.
    Academic Rigor

    I have had some of the hardest classes of my life here and the most fulfilling.
    Tips for prospective students

    You will get a great well rounded education.
    In three sentences

    Chatham is a great small school with a homey environment.
  • 04/19/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    11 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    The campus is tucked away on Fifth Ave. Absolutely beautiful and no harm here!!
    Clubs and Activities

    CMA, Chatham Marketing Association. There are a lot of clubs and activities to do here.
    Great for these types of students

    Women looking for a world ready atmosphere and working hard to do what you want in your career.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    All of the traditions are so much fun!
    Bang for the buck

    You definitely get your moneys worth while coming here.
    What to do for fun

    All the Chatham traditions.
    Food and Dining

    Food is constantly available in the weathervane. Anderson is pretty good.
    Dorm Life

    All the RA's are awesome!
    Academic Rigor

    The classes at Chatham are the same as any other college. Some are hard and some classes are easy. The professors definitely help you if you need anything.
    Tips for prospective students

    Live in Woodland Hall. It is in the middle of the campus!
    In three sentences

    Chatham University is an amazing college to come from. Chatham professors help you do many great things. Student Activities has a lot of events on campus and off.
  • 05/27/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    12 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Our campus is very safe. We have campus police stationed all over campus and other campus police constantly driving through campus. There are also emergency phones placed through out the campus.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want to be successful and some of the best teaching. It is also great for students who need one on one help or to work in small groups because class sizes are always small.
    What to do for fun

    For fun we can go to Pittsburgh Penguin games and get $25 student rush tickets or go to Pittsburgh Pirates games for a dollar. There are also plenty of activities on campus for example sometimes they have a comedian come and perform.
    Food and Dining

    There is always plenty to choose from for food. They have a large selection of food to choose from.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are amazing. They are all old mansions that have been donated to the college. We also do a lot of activities in the dorm so we are always meeting new people and staying involved
    Academic Rigor

    Chatham expects a lot of their students. Some of the classes are very challenging but the teacher are always there to help and will meet with you when ever or help over email.
    In three sentences

    Chatham is an amazing school with great professors. The professors take the time to get to know you and do everything they can to help you do your best. I am very proud to attend such a great school.
  • 06/09/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    13 of 24

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Many student events.
    Tips for prospective students

    Work hard
    In three sentences

    Everyone there is very nice. The professors have taught me so much, and I Iove the campus.
  • 06/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 14 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    none
    Bang for the buck

    pretty steep, but you pay for quality
    What to do for fun

    Lots of social acitivites
    Food and Dining

    Great!
    Dorm Life

    Beautiful! Peaceful
    Academic Rigor

    Not too strigent. If you keep up and manage your academic calendar.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take you time to explore all your academic options
    In three sentences

    One of the best writing school on the east coast!
  • 07/26/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    15 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus is very secure well lighted at night
    Clubs and Activities

    Choir is fun - they have a trip tour every year and a few concerts. There are so many clubs and events to be active with.
    Great for these types of students

    Any
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Chatham gives each class a different color and there are activies between the classes. also in the fall there is a family event at the remote campus it was great- I had a wonderful time with my friends and family.
    Bang for the buck

    Chatham is a bit expensive however I love it ! there are alot of activities, choir, groups, and things to do. There is a great swimming pool, walking track, and beautiful grounds/ buildings.
    What to do for fun

    Chatham is in a great location. You can take the shuttle to Shadyside, Sq Hill, Waterfront ,Oakland , DT- You can go shopping , movies ,restaurants, museums, concerts you are near so much.
    Food and Dining

    Food on campus is excellent. There is alot of variety and choices
    Dorm Life

    Currently I do not live on campus - I'm saving up to live on campus- possibly next year, Chatham is nice because you can still participate in alot of things without living on campus.. I'm trying to avoid too much student debt.
    Academic Rigor

    Some classes have been much easier than I expected some have been much harder - but all very interesting.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus, Attend events, sit in on classes.
    In three sentences

    Beautiful Campus! Great Professors/Staff /classes! Wonderful student groups and support !
  • 07/31/2012

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

    16 of 24

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Go to Pittsburgh!
    Tips for prospective students

    Keep all your information in order because you'll need it!
    In three sentences

    Chatham is a beautiful green campus. Dedicated to environmentalism, a leader in Eco-friendly campuses. A small women's college in Pittsburgh, you'll be able to meet all your classmates.
  • 08/16/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    17 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    This is a very safe school.
    Great for these types of students

    Chatham is an all girl school, which is wonderful for young women who feel boys and on-campus dating might be a distraction for them. There are plenty of schools nearby for socializing, but it does eliminate the in-class distraction. It's also great for older students, such as myself, because this school is full of smart and motivated young women. I have enjoyed interacting with them.
    Bang for the buck

    That's tough. It's a private college, so it's a little expensive. I'm glad I chose this college but paying for it has been a struggle.
    What to do for fun

    There is a great athletic and fitness center on campus (it was even featured in the recent film Abduction!), and there are always events going on.
    Food and Dining

    I've only eaten at Cafe Rachel, but I do like the sandwiches!
    Academic Rigor

    I find the academics can be intense but they are also manageable. I also find the teachers are very easy to approach and always seem willing to help out students.
    Tips for prospective students

    This is an all girls school, so just make sure that's what you want. Also, I'm a Gateway student and applying was not stressful. Orientation was easy as well.
    In three sentences

    As a Gateway student I feel Chatham has been a great experience for me. I enjoy the program I am in (Cultural Studies) and the faculty and students are wonderful and warm. Everyone seems to have an open door policy!
  • 11/06/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    18 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    There are safety phones located all across campus and a private campus police force (not campus security, they are actual police officers hired by Chatham).
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There is a Halloween costume contest in the dining hall on Halloween night. The Chatham Eggnog is a dance/party. I haven't personally participated in it yet, but everyone says it is fun. That is also the first night first-year students are allowed to have overnight guests.
    What to do for fun

    There are always fun things to do on campus. There is also shopping, frozen yogurt, ice cream, and food places in at least 2 different directions, and not more than a 10 minute walk either way.
    Food and Dining

    The food is good at first, but gets boring after a little while, unless you are an adventurous eater. The macaroni and cheese is the most redeeming factor.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are all converted mansions. There is no central air conditioning, but if you have a medical condition, Chatham will install a unit in your room (you have to apply). The heating comes from radiators in the rooms, but there is no way to turn them off or down.
    Academic Rigor

    The courses are challenging and you have to work hard to achieve success in them.
  • 11/26/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    19 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    24 hour campus police. Key card locks on all campus dorms.
    Greek Life

    No Sororities
    Clubs and Activities

    Division 3 sports and intramural sports offered every season.
    Great for these types of students

    HIghly academic students who want minimal distractions and want to really focus on their work or sport.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Chatham eggnog. The labyrinth. The pond.
    Bang for the buck

    No. Things are a tad on the expensive side.
    What to do for fun

    Get off campus. Sporting events. Drink. Lesbian sex.
    Food and Dining

    Always a good selection of food. Be careful of under cooked meats. Vegetarian options are available. Kind of weird meal plan times.
    Dorm Life

    Fairly normal dorm life. Apartments off campus are standard. Dorms on campus are roomy and comfortable.
    Academic Rigor

    Mildly rigorous course difficulty. No matter what your major. Be studious and there are tutors and a library with great hours.
    Tips for prospective students

    Have a good GPA, and really research your colleges before you decide this is the place for you. It is hard to transfer credits if you need to or it isn't for you. Fairly accommodating professors, reasonable living spaces, limited major selection, and great sports program.
    In three sentences

    Overall Chatham University is a wonderful school to attend. It is located in a magnificent city. It is a University that really cares about its student.
  • 01/29/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    20 of 24

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Go off campus and hang out at one of the other universities in the area or go shopping in Shadyside or Oakland. Everything is so close to the school.
    Food and Dining

    I'm a picky eater, but there is always pizza, ice cream, and pasta. The dining services offer a lot of variety.
    Dorm Life

    I love living in the residence halls here because they're all old restored mansions!
    Academic Rigor

    Depending on the class schedule you make for yourself can depend on how hard your semester is.
    Tips for prospective students

    Always go to class because when you go somewhere small the professors always know when you skip class.
    In three sentences

    I really love the atmosphere at this school and how personal everything is here. I love that my professors all know my name and some of my interests outside of class.
  • 03/01/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    21 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Clubs and Activities

    JOIN DRAMA CLUB!!!
    Tips for prospective students

    Remember to be who you are; and you'll find your place in no time. You don't have to be a feminist to go to this university. Go to class!
    In three sentences

    Chatham is a good place for young ladies to grow into independent women. Its a great place for those who are passionate about conserving the environment. Chatham University is like a family.
  • 03/12/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    22 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    To not eliminate Chatham because it's a woman's college. There are plenty of men here!
    In three sentences

    Chatham University is a woman's college. The reason I was drawn here was because of all of the positive attitudes of the students I met and how happy everyone was to be here. I am receiving a top of the line education here to reach my dream of becoming a nurse.
  • 04/18/2013

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

    23 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    cannot comment
    Greek Life

    cannot comment
    Clubs and Activities

    cannot comment
    Great for these types of students

    cannot comment
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    cannot comment
    Bang for the buck

    cannot comment
    What to do for fun

    cannot comment
    Food and Dining

    Cannot comment
    Dorm Life

    Cannot comment
    Academic Rigor

    Cannot comment
    Tips for prospective students

    Cannot comment.
    In three sentences

    I can't comment on the actual student experience, however I know several ladies that have attended or currently attended and they all seem rather well rounded and decently educated.... so I'm guessing that's a good sign. The campus is bright, clean, a little spread out, but very convenient in location.
  • 05/07/2013

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

    24 of 24

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Greek Life

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Clubs and Activities

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Great for these types of students

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Bang for the buck

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    What to do for fun

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Food and Dining

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Dorm Life

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Academic Rigor

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    Tips for prospective students

    Planning to attend Fall 2013
    In three sentences

    Chatham University is a peaceful, quaint university located in the center of the east end of Pittsburgh. The students are friendly, the staff is helpful, and the atmosphere is like home. The university is small, so you can walk its length before you finish your Starbucks.
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