Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA, USA

Reviews

Drexel University

Megan from Lester, PA

a current student here
25 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have just finished my first year at Drexel and I already feel like I am learning a lot. The classes are challenging, but the professors are extremely helpful. For example, I took AP Calculus at my high school and did okay, but I didn't feel I was learning much. I was confused and stressed. At Drexel, I took a math class which covered everything I had done in my AP Calculus class already, but this time around I felt so much more confident.
Am enjoying being here
There are more than 250 organizations you can join at Drexel University, there are many different sports you can get involved in, it's located in one of the biggest cities (Philadelphia) with much to see and do, and, most importantly, there are new people to meet from different parts of the world.
Bang for the buck
The reason I give Drexel five stars in this category is that it offers the Co-Op program. It's an opportunity anyone should took take advantage of. It enables you to get yourself into the working world and helps you to boost your resume. Students can work with top companies in different parts of the world as well as here in the U.S.
Tips for prospective students
In high school, work hard and get involved. Drexel University is looking for students with good grades and those that take leadership roles. If you get accepted into Drexel, I suggest to take advantage of the 5 year program, which gives you the most working experience. If you are stressed out about the price of the school and you live within commuting distance, don't be afraid to commute. I am a commuter and I feel that I still get the college experience while saving a lot of money.
Great for these types of students
Hard-working, self-motivated, involved, those who like a challenge, leaders, those who like the city, and those who want to learn the most they can so they can go out in the working world and be successful.

Jim from Bath, PA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I came into my first year of Drexel not knowing what to expect. Seeing the types of classes I was going to be taking really scared me. As I proceeded with my classes though, I had to greatly adapt my way studying and doing homework so I could be more comfortable with the difficulty and timing of these classes. The most important thing I learned so far from Drexel is time management and working and studying outside of the classroom. Time management is important because being able to balance all of your courses and still having a social life is a must for college. Working and studying outside of the classroom is also very important in college. In high school, I rarely studied and often times put homework aside until later. In college, I found out that doesn't work. I found it necessary for me to read the textbook to keep up with the professor in lectures. Working out the examples given in the textbooks and actually doing optional homework was a huge change for me and helped me grow to be a better student.
Am enjoying being here
I have completed my first year and am half way through my second year and so far I love it here. Drexel's campus not only has so much to offer but the city of Philadelphia was also a huge plus for me when I was deciding on what colleges to go to. Drexel can be fun on campus or off campus. For being off campus it is a subway/taxi (whichever you choose) ride away from center city (shopping, restaurants, events, parades), the sports complexes in south Philly (Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, Sixers), and I have the versatility to occasionally visit some friends at Temple and UPenn. Being on campus can be a lot of fun as well. I do club and intramural sports to stay fit. I did flag football during the fall term and am also on the Drexel Volleyball Club. One thing I take advantage of at Drexel is its gym. Drexel’s gym contains two floors of lifting weights, treadmills, bikes, and other fitness machines. It also has an indoor track on the top floor, squash courts on the first and basement floors, and a basketball court on the second floor. I enjoy being at the gym in my free time to get my mind off of all the studying during the school year.
Bang for the buck
I would have to say that Drexel is definitely worth the money. The education, experience, and professionalism that you gain from this school far outweighs the cost. For my first year at Drexel I really felt like I gained so much in such a short amount of time. I acquired 57.5 credits in my first 3 quarters I was there! Just in case you're wandering, an average student takes about 12 to 15 credits a semester. After my summer break I was able to find a co-op position with an engineering firm in Philly for the fall and winter quarters. I was able to accomplish that because of the resources Drexel’s Steinbreight Career Development Center provided for me. They really teach you the professionalism needed to work in the corporate world. I am currently four weeks away from completing my first co-op.
Tips for prospective students
Biggest tip for Math/Physics/Engineering majors - cramster.com. LIFESAVER. It shows you steps and solutions to solving problems. Just look up your textbook and it gives you the odds. Also try to take breaks in between studying (go to the gym, play sports, video games, anything that can get your mind off of school for a little).
Great for these types of students
Hardworking, team player, and responsible

Kevin from Sewell, NJ

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This is a great school, pride in students who choose to Be Different with hard work ethics. The co-op program within the school is outstanding and will give on the job experience throughout the years of schooling, preparing for jobs better than any other college or university. The location, the city of Philadelphia, is one of the best cities in the United States, just a subway ride away from historic Old Philadelphia and more modern Love Park this is a great city in which to get a college education.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready to work hard, the quarter system that Drexel runs on is only 10 weeks compared to other schools' 15-17 week semesters. Also, make sure to take some time off to relax and explore, the city is your campus!
Academic Rigor
As mentioned in the Tips section, the 10 week quarter term is an extremely quick time to learn and be tested for an entire course, but it is manageable, and you will get used to it after your first term, I promise.
Dorm Life
There is a great selection for the dormitories for your first year, and you must live in campus affiliated housing during your second year, with a great number of selections whether you would like to live all year (during co-op cycle) or only half of the year when you are in class. Dorms have a great sense of community and are all very welcoming.
Food and Dining
The campus dining halls are not all that great. The best place for first years is NorthSide Dining Terrace, which has Chick-Fil-A, Subway, and Currito, however, it uses dining dollars. Once you are no longer bound to the meal plan that Drexel forces first years to take, there are a great number of delicious places to grab a quick bite or a full meal, you are in Philly after all!
What to do for fun
Go into the heart of Philadelphia, everything is a subway ride away, and the subway tokens are cheap! You can go from Penn's Landing to Independence Hall, and even visit your friends at Temple, Penn, and St. Joe's.
Clubs and Activities
With over 300 clubs on campus, you are bound to find one that is right for you, and if not, it is very easy to make your own! I recommend for all to take part in your professional society, as well as another club to take you away from your studies even if it is only once every other week.
Campus Safety
There has never been a time where I have felt unsafe on this campus, day or night, even when walking home from the library alone at night, although this is not advised. There are a great number of Drexel Campus Safety Patrol around campus at all times, and they will even be a walking service so that you are not stuck walking around at night alone.

Black girl from CT

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Yes you learn a lot. Sometimes more than you wanted to, but you find out quickly what to take seriously and what you can slack off on.
Am enjoying being here
No doubt it's a good school and you will definitely meet a lot of new and interesting people but after a while you kind of get sick of all the BS. It can get frustrating; Drexel really doesn't care about you. But then again, with that and co-op, Drexel really is preparing you for life. Also, the dining hall sucks. You will have diarrhea at some point in your freshman year. Probably once a term.
Bang for the buck
You do learn a lot and if you go to all the free events I guess you do get bang for your buck but it's still madd expensive.
Tips for prospective students
It is shocking how fast 10 weeks goes by. I know everyone says that but you will see when you get there. DO NOT buy books in the book store, it is ridiculously expensive. Order them online. It's ok if you don't have your books for the first week or so. Also, try to live off campus after your first year. It's cheaper and you don;t have to deal with the University Housing office. They're annoying.
Some teachers are really annoying, you should look them up before you choose a class but if you have no choice but to take that teacher, I would seriously consider putting it off for a term, you don't HAVE to take that class then. It's just a suggestion. Take something fun that you will actually enjoy, like a language. TRUST ME I have had experience with bad teachers.
Great for these types of students
Engineers and business students. Although Engineers will work their butts off and business majors will party all the time. But it really is a great school for these two majors and the co-op are great experience.

Nida from SICKLERVILLE, NJ

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
In the classes I took at Drexel, I never learned more in such a short amount of time. The classes are very interactive and make you feel very comfortable. I loved the atmosphere.
Am enjoying being here
Since Drexel's in the city, theres always something to do. There's also a few other colleges in the area which means there's lots of students to get to know!
Bang for the buck
It is a bit expensive, but if you have the money, it's definitely worth it!!
Tips for prospective students
If you're looking into Drexel, it would be best to apply for as many scholarships as possible.
Great for these types of students
It's great for students who love the city and are outgoing. Even if you're not, you'll learn to be!

Haley from Gainesville, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
No matter what major you are thinking of attending Drexel for, it is guaranteed that you will learn a lot. The quarter system allows you to take more classes every year, and though the work is condensed into a 10-week period, it is both manageable and more time effective. The teachers truly care about the students and they really know what they're talking about. Though everyone knows Drexel as an excellent engineering school, most people don't know that all of Drexel's other programs are just as incredible. Fashion Design and Music Inudstry, among all of the other majors in the Westphal College of Media Arts and Design, are taught by teachers who have the experience and the knowledge to back what they are saying. The nursing college is fantastic, as are all of the programs offered here at Drexel University.
Am enjoying being here
I have been living in Philadelphia for a month now and let me tell you what a crazy change it was. Moving up north from a somewhat small (compared to Philly) town in Florida was a huge change for me. Most students attending Drexel come from nearby areas, so I was afraid I would be completely lost moving so far from home. I feel that it only took me about a week to become adjusted to my new life up here. Though I do miss my family, friends, and home, the Drexel and Philadelphia environment is so welcoming that sometimes I'll go a week without feeling even the slightest bit of homesickness. The friends I have made here are some of the most amazing people I have ever met. I feel very lucky to have found such incredible people to spend my free time with. There's always something to do in Philadelphia... cheap food, cheap shopping, and so many historical sites to visit. One of the best things about Drexel is the Cultural Passport that it gives freshman which gives you free or highly discounted entry into all of the historical landmarks and museums like the Eastern State Penitentiary and the Philadelphia Zoo! You will never be bored here.
Bang for the buck
It is obvious to all that apply that Drexel University is a highly expensive school. However, if you are coming to Drexel for something you truly love, you will never spend your money on anything more important than your education. The Music Industry program here at Drexel (which I am enrolled in) is top notch, and the Co-Ops for all the majors here are some of the best in the country. Drexel has such a high reputation that over the summer while in LA I met a promotions manager for Columbia Records and upon hearing that I was attending Drexel she immediately gave me her card and asked me to contact her when I needed a co-op. You can not find prestige like this at any random college. Though Drexel is expensive, if you are truly dedicated to the work you will be doing here, it will be money well-spent.
Tips for prospective students
Prepare yourself for becoming independent. Steady yourself before coming to school by preparing for the daily life activities that you never think about. For example: grocery shopping, laundry, and sweeping the floor. The transition from high school to college is difficult, but what's more difficult is your transition from a child to an adult. Make sure that you are ready for the commitment of a lifetime and you will thrive in ANY college environment! :)
Great for these types of students
Philadelphia is a bustling and exciting city, and Drexel's campus very much matches this. If you are an outgoing and fun-loving person who thrives in a fast-paced environment, you will love Drexel.

Kristina from NC

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Drexel is fast-paced and is known for its co-op program. There are also lots of different clubs and programs created to help people socialize and explore other interests. However, there is definitely a bureaucratic leadership that creates what we call the "Drexel Shaft."
Tips for prospective students
Take AP Classes or some other college-level class. Drexel generally accepts 4s and it will save you a lot of time and money. Taking more high-level courses will also help you cope with the 10-week terms.
Academic Rigor
There is no major that doesn't get super stressed at some point in the term. As an engineering major, the hardest classes have been the sciences (Chemistry and Physics), but there are also classes that are pretty easy as long as you do the work.
Dorm Life
I love living in the dorms. Living in a learning community has been great too. You get to know a lot of people and are always supported. However, all of the dorms have something wrong with them (But Myers is the worst). Mine doesn't get hot water in the sinks in the morning.
Food and Dining
The food is OK. We got a new food provider this year and they're trying to get better. My main problem is that the meal plan only lets us get food at one location on the weekends. That food gets old after a while.
What to do for fun
Philadelphia is literally filled with things to do all the time. I've enjoyed going to see concerts, operas, and ballets. I've also gone to a few museums. Even walking along South Street is an adventure.
Bang for the buck
Drexel seems very expensive, but that is because we have a quarter system. In a normal freshman year, you have 3 terms. That means you take up to 60 credits in the same time a semester university student can take 40. You don't pay tuition during co-op and will actually probably get paid during those 6 months.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
We are all united under the Drexel Shaft. It used to be a place but has come to mean something more along the lines of being screwed by the faculty.
Great for these types of students
People looking for specific/weird majors (Music Industry, Game Design, etc.), people who can get bored easily, people who like exploring cities.
Clubs and Activities
There is a wide variety of clubs at Drexel. The hardest part is trying to consistently go to meetings. However, most clubs understand and being active only means going to 3 meetings or so a term. I've enjoyed SWE, Interstellar, and Dragon Jedi.
Greek Life
There is some Greek life on campus. The frats usually throw some good parties. There have been a few negative things happening to some fraternities in the news lately, though. The hard part is trying to distinguish between actual Greek life and honors fraternities. I am in the music honors fraternity.
Campus Safety
Honestly, on campus is the safest place you can be in Philly. There are lights everywhere and public safety call poles every 50 feet. You can also call an escort from campus police if you feel uncomfortable. Just remember to be aware at night.

Xavier from Littlestown, PA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Drexel is an incredible school because of its focus on experiential learning. Students here have a huge advantage over their peers if they take advantage of the co-ops. Some can graduate with up to a year and a half of major-related job experience.
Tips for prospective students
Drexel is in an incredibly urbanized area, so be prepared for city life!
Academic Rigor
Drexel is a college known for its STEM education.
Dorm Life
The dorms provide a healthy living experience. They are close to classes, and well kept.
Food and Dining
Urban Eatery is a dining option for sit down, restaurant style meals, while the Hanschumacher dining center is more similar to a cafeteria.
What to do for fun
The gym at Drexel is rated number 1 in Philadelphia, and there are various outdoor facilities as well.

Eliza

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Drexel gives you so many experiences.
Drexel gives you a chance to meet so many people.
Drexel gives you a helping hand when you need it.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to breath a little and have fun. Though you feel like you'll need to work and study for ten weeks straight, allow yourself time to just relax. Don't be afraid to just hop on the shuttle and explore center city for a few minutes.
Academic Rigor
Drexel's academic rigor is definitely tough, challenging, and fast. It'll be hard to manage at first, but you'll get into the swing of things with dedication and time.
Dorm Life
I commuted my freshmen year, and I didn't really get to experience the dorm life aside from visiting my friends' or sleeping over, but it was always a unique experience.
Food and Dining
There are so many options on campus. If you want something cheap, but don't want food from the dining hall, there are food trucks everywhere that are totally affordable.
What to do for fun
You can explore University City, Center City, all on foot if you wanted to! There are major museums all around, beautiful scenery, and so many places to go.
Bang for the buck
For all the money Drexel's tuition is, it's definitely worth it because the buildings are always kept so nice, the professors really know what they're talking about, and the quality of education is something you won't find anywhere else.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
An unusual location on campus is the commuter lounge in the Creese Student Center, you'll always find the most interesting people there.
Great for these types of students
There's everything and anything on Drexel's campus, you just have to look!
Clubs and Activities
There are SOOO many clubs and activities you can involve yourself in.
I am personally biased over the Filipino Intercultural Society of Drexel University because through this club, I have found a second home and a family.
Greek Life
I was never part of Greek Life, and I don't think I ever will be, but you can still be involved in the activities they host so you won't even feel a difference. Basically, you don't even have to be involved in greek life to be active in it.
Campus Safety
There are campus safety officers everywhere at any time of the day. There was no time I felt unsafe.

Kathrine from Willingboro, NJ

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Drexel offers a plethora of classes and programs. Campus is clean and stacked to the brim with state of the art tools to assist in your education. The teachers are very knowledgeable, well educated and invested in your success.
Tips for prospective students
Drexel has academic quarters are short. Use your time wisely. Get a calendar fill it with all your due dates. Come to class prepared with homework done and questions on hand. Do NOT be afraid to ask questions.
Academic Rigor
10 week quarters are hard to manage. There is a lot of material in a short time frame. However, the staff provide you all the information you need to succeed. If you apply yourself.
Dorm Life
I am a commuter. I do not stay in a dorm. I know from visiting that dorms are small like at any other college. They have round the clock security. They have both wifi and the option of a hard wire connection. The dorms share kitchens and bathrooms. Drexel offers both coed dorms and dorms based on major.
Food and Dining
The Drexel campus has a lot of different dining areas. The meal plan is fair and taste good. From the dining hall to the variety of food trucks.
What to do for fun
I like to work out I spend a lot of time in Drexels well equipped gym. There are a variety of activities and intramural sports at Drexel University. Drexel Center City campus is in the middle of Philadelphia. You can explore the historical epicenter of the Philadelphia everything from the liberty bell to the building that the constitution was written and signed in.
Bang for the buck
Drexel is expensive, like the majority of schools. They provide a plethora of activities, benefits and a quality education. The opportunities of a Drexel education are limitless. They also offer the opportunity for job experience.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
You are required to take a picture with the Drexel Dragon statue in order to graduate. There is also lots and lots of food trucks.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who are up for a challenge. Individuals who work hard and are willing to make sacrifices for their success.
Clubs and Activities
Drexel has 100+ clubs and they are always willing to help you make one that fits your interests. Drexel offers everything from fraternities, and Future Business Leaders to comic book club. From the first day of class you are encouraged to get involved in activities at the school. There is an open gym, library, soccer field and much more.
Greek Life
Drexel offers a few different fraternities, and sororities. I am not personally involved in one.
Campus Safety
There are security guards constantly roaming the campus throughout the day. In order to get into certain buildings you are required to scan your ID. The campus is also fitted with emergency phones, and cameras. In the event of an emergency you can press an emergency button and all police in the area will be notified. There is Drexel Alert that notifies all students when events happen, everything from weather delays, robberies, traffic jams, and car accidents.