Iowa State University Ames, IA

4.1901, FourPointFive Average Rating

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Student Reviews

Iowa State University Reviews

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Jennifer from Shoreview, MN

07/19/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

20 out of 20 people found this review useful. 1 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is great for anyone that's looking for an authentic college experience. Not only will you receive a rewarding education but you can also get involved with many different clubs and teams. Because Ames (town surrounding Iowa State) is such a small town, the school really has a sense of solidarity. Everyone goes to football games, everyone partakes in homecoming activities and other seasonal festivals, and everyone gets really excited about it.
Tips for prospective students	Keep an open mind. when you're meeting so many different people with so many different likes and dislikes be sure to maintain an open mind. When I first decided to come to Iowa state a friend of mine told me to consider doing formal recruitment for the Greek community. I had never really considered myself a sorority type of girl, but my friend told me that by doing formal recruitment it would be a great way to meet people. And not only did I meet some of my best friends, but I also joined a house and I couldn't be happier with my decision. So, in conclusion my tip is to not be afraid to branch out of you're comfort zone, because you're sure to meet some really great people and maybe even some lifelong friends.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State is a really great school, but it is quite expensive for the out-of-staters. But I would suggest that you really consider you're major and also visit the campus to see if you like the feel of it. Personally I think the campus is absolutely beautiful, and not at all what I expected Iowa to look like. So I would say that if the school strongly represents your intended major and if you think the campus is as beautiful as I do, then Iowa State may just be the place for you.
Am enjoying being here	The school has so many great things to offer. You may think that because your in Iowa, that automatically means there will be nothing to do. But if you get involved, whether it be in a club, an intramural, or in the Greek community you'll find that you wont have nearly enough time to do everything you want to do. The one drawback is that it's easy to lose focus. But if you keep in mind the real reason why you're there, then you'll be able to find the balance between why you're there and what you want to do for fun.
Am learning a lot	The learning environment at Iowa State is unlike anything else, there's no doubt in my mind that it has been a challenge, but the school offers many resources for any student who is willing to seek them out. the collegiate learning experience demands a lot from it's students but at Iowa State they offer tutors, help sessions, study tips, workshops for writing, and most teachers and/or teaching assistants offer one on one help so no matter what you're having trouble with, you'll be able to find someone that can help. furthermore there is no doubt in my mind that I will walk away from Iowa State a more intelligent and competent person and I know that I will be fully equipped with whatever I may need to face the challenges of my selected field.

Nick from River Falls, WI

07/14/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

14 out of 14 people found this review useful. 2 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Prospective engineers, design majors, those pursuing computer-related fields, Iowa residents, and those looking for big opportunities.
Tips for prospective students	The campus is gorgeous, and feels more like a state park than a college. Definitely go to a football game if you get a chance, but stay away from Welch Avenue afterward. Jimmy John's, Jeff's Pizza, and The Fighting Burrito are located a few feet from campus, have delicious food, good prices, make deliveries, and are all open until around 3 AM. Take your parents to Hickory Park when they visit, you'll be glad you did. First year roommate assignments are usually random, so be prepared. Cyride, the bus system, makes it easy to get anywhere in Ames. The guy to girl ratio is unfavorable for men, but every female in that count is hot enough to be a model. Girls, you'll find every type of man you could imagine, and then some. Take the time to meet some of the international students. There are a lot of them, and you can learn a lot from them. The career fairs are huge and bring big opportunities. Always be in attendance.
Bang for the buck	Tuition is a hefty load on out-of-staters, and if you're an engineering major, your tuition goes up after two years. There are scholarships available, along with $5600 and $7000 packages for those not from Iowa (very easy criteria apply). Overall, the facilities are nice. Engineers and design majors get to enjoy brand new additions and buildings, and there's also a new chemistry building going up. To paraphrase, the equipment, opportunities, and experience offered by Iowa State make it great for the price.
Am enjoying being here	Ames, IA has one of the lowest crime rates in the U.S., and is generally relaxed. Football and basketball games are an absolute blast, and the town does get a little crazy. The school has a very friendly atmosphere, and it's easy to meet new people. There are all kinds of big events that happen, like E-Week or VEISHEA (if you don't know about VEISHEA yet, Google it), but there are also plenty of small ones. Whether you collect famous toothbrushes or like smashing computers to bits, you can find a student organization to share your passion with others. In short, it's hard not to enjoy Iowa State.
Am learning a lot	You learn a lot in college, but at Iowa State you can learn anything you could imagine. The professors are true experts in their fields, and do an excellent job teaching. The living experience at ISU leads to a lot of great insights too, especially if you're living in Friley or Helser Halls.

Meghan from Walnut, IL

06/09/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

12 out of 12 people found this review useful. 3 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Determined, competetive, artsy, engineers, ag students, students who want the real college experience, dance minors
Tips for prospective students	If you are planning on becoming a design major, BE PREPARED for the difficulty and time-consuming curriculum. I have taken art classes since grade school and I still struggled through many projects. However, you will learn SO much and feel like you accomplished a lot. It is a very competetive program.
Bang for the buck	I'm paying out-of-state tuition, and even with a $5,600 scholarship it is difficult to pay. I love the school but it is definitely expensive.

Kalynn from Davenport, IA

12/28/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful. 4 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Engineers, Anthropologists, pre-vet students, agricultural students, budding scientists, design students, the musically inclined, business students and determined individuals!
Tips for prospective students	1. Send in your application as soon as humanly possible ;) 2. Apply for outside scholarships as well as scholarships within Iowa State. 3. Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible. 4. Get involved on campus through volunteering, clubs and leadership activities 5. Take advantage of all the free things on campus like the gym. After all of the great food in the dining halls, you're going to need a way to work off those extra calories during the winter. 6. Try the Honors Program! You won't regret it :)
Bang for the buck	Compared to private colleges, Iowa State is pretty cheap. But it can be a pretty hefty price for students when it is compared to tuition rates at community colleges or when the prospective student is an out-of-stater. However, Iowa State does try to make it easier on out-of-staters by offering scholarships that specifically pertain to them. They also offer academic scholarships and financial aid for students from Iowa.
Am enjoying being here	Classes and help sessions keep my days pretty busy but campus life is enjoyable when I have free time. The week before school starts is one of the best times to experience Iowa State at its best. It is a time that is vibrant with new experiences as students move into their dorm rooms and freshmen participate in Destination Iowa State. Destination Iowa State is a unique event for freshmen as it gives them a chance to see the beautiful campus on a student guided tour, make new friends, receive free Cyclone gear and learn the school song in a spirited atmosphere. It is a great start to the multitude of events that happen on the Iowa State campus. Events during the school year include but are not limited to Free Friday Night Flicks (they tend to show movies that have just been in the theater), bowling in the basement of Memorial Union, concerts in Stephens Auditorium or the Hilton Colosseum and fairs within Memorial Union. There is something for everyone!
Am learning a lot	Only into my first semester at Iowa State University, I already feel like I have learned a substantial amount of useful material. I also find myself enjoying the course material exponentially more than I did in high school. The professors work really hard to make their lectures interesting, as well as, interactive in the hopes that students will better retain course material. For the harder courses like general chemistry, they even set up help sessions and Supplemental Instruction (SI) sessions in an effort to help students succeed in their class.

Jacob from Poway, CA

07/13/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 8 people found this review useful. 5 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Anyone pursiung a science major would like this university, as would students in general seeking study abroad opportunities.
Tips for prospective students	As an out-of-state student, having to pay the extra money is obviously something of a drag. However, ISU really tries to help out all of its students, and there are lots of opportunities for scholarships and employment around the campus. The staff members are kind and helpful, and do their best to help you make the most out of your college experience. There is also a multitude of extracurricular clubs and organizations, so nearly anyone can find something fun to do when they want to take a break from their studies. The study abroad opportunities are great here, too.

Hannah from Ames, IA

06/18/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful. 6 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Engineering, chemistry, psychology, physics and design majors.
Tips for prospective students	Be prepared to study! It's not going to be easy, but it will be worth it!
Am enjoying being here	The people in Ames are generally good, nice people. Ames has a small town feel to it, but is just big enough to have some nightlife for the students to enjoy. And don't forget about VEISHEA or the Freeman Spring Concert!
Am learning a lot	There are some classes I have taken that I have looked back on and wondered what the heck I learned. But, for the most part, the courses are challenging and apply to real life scenarios. The teachers here are wonderful people who are always happy to help out a struggling student.

Nathan from Stewartville, MN

12/04/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 6 people found this review useful. 7 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	If you are going to attend Iowa State I have a few very helpful tips for you. First, make sure you keep your grades up and stay very involved with extracurricular activities so that you can get some scholarships and so you can continue those activities in college. Second, really get involved as soon as you step on campus because if you don't not only will you be bored, but as many as your advisors will tell you it will be harder for you to get internships and job positions in the future. Thirdly, take advantage of your advisors. So far I have had nothing short of great advisors that are willing to sit down and discuss what I'm interested in and what would be better for me to take with my major and interests etc. Lastly, make sure you are organized with your time for studying, organizations, and friends.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State is very expensive. I am an out-of-state student and am very concerned about having to transfer if either one of my parents lose their job or if tuition continues to rise. However, I feel like almost every dollar I spend here is worth what I'm getting out of it, otherwise I wouldn't be here. There are a lot of little fees that they charge you for but if you get involved with a lot of things on campus you can get something out of every dollar you are charged.
Am enjoying being here	There is a lot of life on the campus of Iowa State. It doesn't matter what dorm you live in or even if you live off campus. You can find something to do anywhere on campus very easily for almost every day of the week.
Am learning a lot	The professors here at Iowa State are very qualified to teach their expertise. You learn so much from class to class that you can apply to real life very easily and start using right away.

Akshali from Naperville, IL

09/24/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 4 people found this review useful. 8 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Hardworking, intelligent, openminded, simple, outgoing, friendly, down-to-earth. Design. Animal Science-Pre Vet, Agriculture, Engineering.
Tips for prospective students	Be Open. Try new things. Try to double major. Join the Honors Program!
Bang for the buck	I don't get what everyone is talking about: it is a great deal for both in-state and out-of-state students, even with tuition hikes. Compared with the in-state rate for the biggest university in Illinois, (U of I Champaign), tuition here is great!
Am enjoying being here	The biggest thing I like about ISU is the general sense of community you get. Everyone is so nice - never have I been around such NICE, kind, hardworking, dedicated people.
Am learning a lot	Both inside my classes and outside, coming to the state of Iowa has helped me grow so much. People here are indeed very diverse and smart, even though it's only Iowa.

Clint from Waterloo, IA

12/10/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 9 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	This university is great for people who like to be a part of a group. It seems that all of us here are one big group. It's also a great place for people who like to be able to walk to where they need to go. It helps save gas money.
Tips for prospective students	My first tip that I would give to prospective students would be to look for scholarships now. That is the only sure fire way to get around the cost of the rising tuition. The more scholarships you have, the easier it will be for you to relax when it comes time to think about expenses. Another tip that I would give to prospective students is to get involved. It helps you keep busy, make friends and get relief from the stress that comes from daily school work and tests. Don't be just another brick in these walls.
Bang for the buck	With the rising cost of tuition, it is getting harder and harder to pay for it all. With the budget cuts that are going on within this state, the university is being forced to cut down on things that can sometimes appear to be necessary to our education.
Am enjoying being here	I really enjoy the campus life. There is always something going on, both on the week days and on the weekends. There are many different ways to make friends here. I am in Marching Band, and I have made so many friends there. This is a great place to be.
Am learning a lot	I have only been here for one semester but I am already learning so much. My classes are very interesting, especially the ones within my major. I am learning a lot about the media and how they use different symbols and strategies to target different audiences.

Teresa from Wautoma, WI

10/05/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 10 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	WiSE is a learning community for Women in Science and Engineering and you don't have to live in the residence hall to be apart of it. It is a great way to get to know other people in your science classes and allows for the opportunity to start study groups! Try your best to attend SI sessions, they really do help! Don't be worried if you don't like your roommate! You can always switch! And finally, its important to get to know important people because good references come in handy! Planning your career is the biggest part of college and ISU has the biggest Career Fair in the Nation! And a terrific Careers department to suite your every need! Be a Cyclone and pursue your passions, whatever they may be! ISU provides an area for everyone! Whether it be Animal Science, Engineering, Design, Music, Theatre... there's always a place for you. Your Journey Starts Here!
Tips for prospective students	ISU is a great school and I suggest figuring out what you want to do so you know what classes to take! Also really research where you want to live and totally try and join the FREE learning communities that ISU provides. You will find that a lot of other universities charge for learning communities, up to $200! Also don't be afraid to take online courses or more than 14 credits! It can be done! I'm taking three online classes and 17.5 credits! Also find a job thats close to campus and convenient for your class schedule, there are plenty of opportunities. Apply for all the scholarships, the school offers a ton for freshmen and apply early! There's no college essay! And most importantly- don't be afraid to have healthy fun and meet tons on new people! Thats the best part!
Bang for the buck	Being an out of state student, tuition is expensive everywhere, but Iowa State's Financial Center totally gets that and provided me with enough coverage that I didn't have to take out any loans at all this year which is absolutely amazing! I am so grateful! There is also so much you can get with your money! Housing is cheap, food is cheap, and the meal plans are great! I got the 7 meal plan- its much easier to handle btw!! Your definitely putting your money in a great investment by attending ISU!
Am enjoying being here	Beside its breath taking scenery, ISU provides such an inviting environment that makes everyone feel at home and at ease. That is the main reason why I absolutely enjoy being here. ISU is a wonderful place to grow and small enough that a small town girl like me can still fit in without being bored by a too small of town. It's absolutely amazing the experiences you will have.
Am learning a lot	At Iowa State you are given the opportunity to follow you dreams and create others. You learn ALOT about yourself and alot about other people, and thats not even including the actual class work learning that you do. ISU gives you that opportunity to explore those classes that you've always been curious or wanting to learn more about. I might take an astrology class next semester, because I want to learn about the stars and I know that I can here.

Carly from State Center, IA

01/28/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 11 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Open-minded, independent, fun-loving, unique, eager to learn!
Tips for prospective students	If you have questions, ask them. Do a visit. Check out all of the opportunities available to you, and find your right fit! You have the chance to personalize your education, take advantage of it! There is no place as great as Iowa State, and we have a lot of unique things coming out of our campus!
Bang for the buck	You definitely get what you pay for! A great education, mixed with a great social experience. Campus is beautiful as well! We have top research facilities, a great honors program, a fantastic academic services center, and plenty of opportunities! Iowa State is really a unique place!
Am enjoying being here	There is always something to do! Especially if you get involved in some things that you love (which there is a club for EVERY interest) it will enhance your experience here! We have great restaurants in Ames, a mall, movie theaters, and always someone to enjoy them with! All very close to campus, with a bus system that runs to most of them!
Am learning a lot	The classes are challenging, but in a good way. You don't have the cookie cutter classes. You are in classes with people with similar interests as you, and will be making friends right away. You may have some classes of 300 or more, but it's not as scary as you think! Also, in those classes you generally meet once a week with a smaller section of 15-20 so you can ask questions and discuss what you're learning, enhancing your education.

Jessica from Ames, IA

02/03/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 12 of 187

Categories	Comments
Bang for the buck	It is pricey to come here, but nowadays every college is expensive. Iowa State has a lot of scholarship opportunities if you apply yourself, which has helped me out extremely.
Am enjoying being here	I came here not knowing anyone and I have had a blast meeting new people. I am away from home and I believe it is a great experience because it helps you become more independent.
Am learning a lot	Every class I am in i have learned a lot of information from the professors and the teaching assistants. It is very helpful that there are extra review sessions and office hours that you can go to to ask all the questions you have.

Brittany

12/27/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 2 people found this review useful. 13 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Engineering students or business students or Design Students. I am in the design program and it is a fantastic program.
Tips for prospective students	Time management is important when going to any college. Since you don't have class for 8 hours a day it's easy to slack on school work. Don't! Stay ahead in classes and you'll save yourself a stressful day in the future. Also if there is something you love to do or want to try do it. College is that chance and Iowa State has many chances for you to get involved.
Bang for the buck	Being from out of state, I have to pay an extremely higher rate but Iowa State is worth it. I am getting so much out of my education here and have no doubt I will get a successful career when I'm done.
Am enjoying being here	There are so many people at Iowa State and numerous chances to get involved on campus. There are hundreds of clubs which give you a chance to meet new people. Everyone at ISU is friendly. The dorms are nice and have activities among floors and houses so people can interact. The dining halls have a great variety of food and is really good. The campus is really pretty and always kept clean. Campus buses can take you everywhere around Aimes which is really convenient.
Am learning a lot	The professors on campus are great at doing their jobs. I have learned so much with every new teacher I've had. They are there to help you so you can go talk to them and ask for help whenever you need them. They want their students to succeed and to learn so they do everything they can to make sure you learn as much as possible and get what you need from the course.

Wyatt from Burnsville, MN

01/08/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 2 people found this review useful. 14 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is a great choice for anyone who is into engineering, art, design, any ROTC programs, people who want a larger campus with a small town feel, people who want to be challenged, and people who are looking to make lots of new friends.
Tips for prospective students	If you attend ISU, join a learning community. Learning communities offer a great way to meet a group of new friends and have fun in a small classroom setting. Learning communities do serious stuff like how to prepare for the career fair and how to write a resume, but they also do funn stuff like make toothpick bridges and have pizza parties. The bus system at ISU is great, you can get just about anywhere you could ever need to go on Cyride. Food service at Iowa State is first class lots of good food all of the time.
Bang for the buck	Out of state tuition is not kind on my wallet even with a nice scholarship and grant that ISU is giving me. But it is still worth it to go there.
Am enjoying being here	The campus is amazing with lots of oppertunities to explore and have fun. Central campus is wide open and you can almost always find a game of ultimate frisbee or football going there. The recreation centers offer a good way to excersize when the weather is less than favorable. There are people from all over the world and everyone is nice.
Am learning a lot	Professors are great and will take the time to talk with you if you have questions or just want to get to know them better.

Olivia from Bettendorf, IA

01/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 2 people found this review useful. 15 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	All!!
Tips for prospective students	Make sure you definitely come for a campus visit, it will give you that extra push to know that this is the school for you. Once you get here, make sure to check out everything available to you. There are loads of clubs, free movies, and fun classes you can take. My roommate and I took advantage of a belly dance class offered at the Memorial Union, it was certainly a blast.
Bang for the buck	Even though I am paying in state tuition, it can still be difficult to make ends meet, although I honestly believe it is all worth it.
Am enjoying being here	Not only is the campus absolutely beautiful the people are just as lovely. Everyone here is nice and outgoing. I've only been here one semester and I have already made some great friends.
Am learning a lot	The professors here at Iowa State really try and help you out. I have already created a more friendship like relationship with some of them, always knowing that they are out there on my side, ready to help whenever I ask.

McKayla from Savage, MN

10/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 16 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is such a large and diverse school, that everyone can feel at home here. Iowa State began as an Engineering and Agricultural college, and our roots really show throughout the school. For students pursuing careers in these fields should definitely check out Iowa State.
Tips for prospective students	Get involved. Get involved. Get involved. I was a high school student who wanted nothing to do with extra curricular activities, but with over 500 student-run philanthropies, it's impossible NOT to find a club or sport that you click with. It's a great way to make friends, be apart of the campus, and it looks wonderful on your resume.
Bang for the buck	With endless possibilities, you're definitely getting your money's worth here at Iowa State. As a student, you get to ride the buses for free, which is really nice when you don't have a car, because the buses will literally take you everywhere. You also have the opportunity to look at majors throughout six different colleges Iowa State hosts. There's a nightclub that's right on campus, along with a bowling alley that has $1 bowling. You really can't go wrong here.
Am enjoying being here	The campus is so large, and there are so many people, that the first few days are a little overwhelming, however, when you get past those few days, you almost forget about home. You can never be bored here on campus. We have so many organizations, clubs, opportunities, and not to mention, a great campus-town. You'll really have a lot of fun here at Iowa State.
Am learning a lot	Iowa State is filled with endless amounts of possibilities to decide what you want to do with the rest of your life. I can take an interior design class one hour, and accounting the next, because this school doesn't limit me to my major. I love being able to learn what I want, even if it's not relevant to my major.

Jennifer from Midland, MI

11/05/2010

Reviewer is A past student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 17 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	ISU is great for highly motivated students, since this is an information and technology university there is lots of innovative concepts developing here, so if you are entrepreneurial or merely ambitious, Iowa State is the school for you. Iowa State is great for many types of students, proved by our community of students being diverse. COME TO IOWA STATE AND BE A PROUD CYCLONE!
Tips for prospective students	Check the requirements for whatever program of study you are interested in and map out what it would take for you to graduate in four years--Iowa State is good at trying to move people through their programs on an acceptable time table. Also be open-minded and willing to change--you will almost undoubtedly change your mind about what you want to do with your life while in college. Iowa State is awesome for that because it is not a school that only has a certain program of study, there are many programs, and you can even create your own program of study!
Bang for the buck	For out-of-state students ISU has the potential of being a bit expensive, but with good grades and extracurricular activities, there are many scholarships available that can bring tuition costs back down toward in-state tuition. I have the opportunity to take classes with some well-known and respected professors, as well as the chance to be a part of one of the oldest and best Journalism Schools in the nation.
Am enjoying being here	The environment is great. The campus is gorgeous and people are friendly and nice. There are many activities to get involved in, on and off campus, which helps to enhance the experience that college can provide. I'm far away from home, but with the internet I can still be connected to friends and family throughout the world. It is easy to meet new people and befriend them--there is always someone new to meet, which helps to make Ames a great place to be. The campus isn't huge, but it's not super small either--it's a great combination of 'city' life and country life.
Academic Rigor	There are many highly qualified professors who provide good and unique insights into the subjects they are teaching. Their enthusiasm for their subjects is evident and transfers to the students. There are many courses that seem unrelated, but after learning about the topics, you find ways to have them be 'connected,' which makes learning about them far more interesting. I'm learning not only about academic topics, but also about myself as I'm becoming more independent and finding the skills useful for the 'real world.'

Sarah from Cedar Rapids, IA

12/30/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 18 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Engineering students will find Iowa State has much to offer. However, I would definitely not limit it to just engineering, ISU has a fantastic Vet program and a little bit for everyone.
Tips for prospective students	Iowa State is definitely a big school. Find a few things that you are passionate about and do them. Don't spread yourself too thin because other aspects of your life may suffer.
Bang for the buck	ISU definitely has a lot to offer to anyone who comes to the university. The professors want to help their students do well. There is a club for almost everything.
Am enjoying being here	I love being on the campus. It's like its own little community. You never know who you will end up being friends with. It is your chance to be who you really want to be since no one really knows who you were.
Am learning a lot	Some of the classes I took last semester covered the same topics of classes that I took as Advanced Placement classes in high school. However, we went over topics faster and actually went more in depth. I was able to see the same thing that I had learned in a new light taught by someone else.

Madeline from Pella, IA

02/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 19 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Almost anyone. There are so many different opportunities that students have, it's hard not to find your place here.
Tips for prospective students	Visit to see if it feels right. Think of yourself on campus, it really helps. When you're here, get involved. Destination Iowa State is a program held for freshman before classes start and it's a great way to meet people who live near you and figure out a little more how things work. Meet your professors, especially in small classes. They love getting to know their students too, and it makes it easier if you need help with anything, like the class, or references later on.
Bang for the buck	Rising prices make things difficult, but since it's a state school, it's still a lot cheaper that somewhere else. For in-state the price is great, and there are so many great things about the school that make the price worth it.
Am enjoying being here	The campus is great. It's super pretty, and big, but not too big. There is a bus system that goes all over campus and into Ames that is free for students, so getting to class is even easier. There are so many different clubs too; at the beginning of each semester there is a Club Fest where tons of groups display what they have to offer.
Am learning a lot	Iowa State is a great school. There's a huge selection of majors and classes to take, it's almost hard to fit it all in 4 years. Some majors, like Design or engineering are a lot of work, but most of the people I know completely love it. Some people don't like the lecture classes because there are so many people, but those classes are actually really awesome. Because there are no make-up tests, teachers often drop the lowest test score, and there are sometimes extra credit options. Lecture classes are also nice because you can choose to learn the material, the professor doesn't force you to learn. The classes challenge you.

Anthoni from Davenport, IA

05/23/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 20 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Get to know students around the university! I'm sure you will find some friends and make new ones. You will never have issues getting through class if you try.
Bang for the buck	While the cost isn't the lowest, it isn't the highest. The education here is one of the top-rated for my fields even though it was just started but not a few years ago!
Am enjoying being here	The scenery with the trees and the center clock tower is a sight to behold. There is nothing that compares to it. It is as lovely as any place can be.
Am learning a lot	The universities layout is simply ingenious, and takes no skill at all to figure out where things are. The first day will be without a breeze, the students are caring and helpful. The professors enjoy their job.

Emily from Maplewood, MN

03/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 21 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There is a free bus system that runs every day and takes you wherever you need to go in the city. Also, there is a free help van that will pick you up at night if you need to get across campus and have no one to walk with.
What to do for fun	Campustown, directly across the street from campus, is the main social hotspot. It has a ton of places to eat, clubs to go to, and places to hang out. However, don't forget about historic downtown and the gourmet cupcake emporium! As well as off campus activities, there are always on campus activities. There are free, recently released movies playing every weekend, sports events, bands, art classes, music classes, special late night activities (sometimes including hypnotists and other semi-famous people), and a lot more!
Food and Dining	Like most dining center foods, there is about a three week rotation, meaning that every third Tuesday is ravioli night, etc. But overall, the food quality is good. Everything is made fresh and comes from a lot of the local farms and areas in Iowa.
Dorm Life	If you get a good roommate and keep your door open, you will be fine. There are a lot of floor and building activities to get to know the other people who live around you. Be sure to meet the people on your floor. Who knows, they might be a super genius in the subject that you struggle with most!
Academic Rigor	It depends on the classes you take. There are classes that are super difficult (like physics and engineering courses) but they balance out with easier classes (such as orientation and general ed requirements).
Tips for prospective students	Get involved! Whether it's joining clubs, sororities/fraternities, intramurals, or just going out with friends. The first few months are important in finding the people who can help you through everything that college life throws at you.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a beautiful campus during all seasons. The professors are all super helpful and encouraging. There is always something to do on campus.

Dwight from Iowa

09/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 22 of 187

Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	There is a shop at the Memorial Union called the M-Shop where students can attend live performances by a diverse line of bands.
Bang for the buck	Students will not regret attending this school. It is an experince
What to do for fun	There is a variety of different clubs, activities, and opportunities on campus for students to become involved. The University features two on campus recreational centers for working out and other sports. Most housing has a commons with ping pong, and billiard tables. There is a collection of stores, coffee houses and restaurants located in campus town. There is a free movie theater that shows movies a few months after they have circulated through the theaters. Along with movies, there is a bowling ally located in the Memorial Union on campus.
Food and Dining	Dining on campus is hard to understand at first. Students can attain a meal plan under which they have a set amount of meals along with dinning dollars to be used for smaller items at shops on campus. The university sports a large amount if faculty, staff, and students, which is not a big problem but their are occasionally long lines. A little known fact is that meal plans include guest meals for visiting family etc.
Dorm Life	Dorm life on campus is involved and it tries to create a community of responsible adults. The different floors of each house have their own identity and creates a community within its self. The university allows students to take varied leadership roles within these floor communities. This is a fantastic system; however its effects are ruined easily on a floor with a lot of people who aren't all team players.
Academic Rigor	Academic rigor can be a handful. The university wants its students to become professional in whatever they choose to pursue. They have time consuming courses specific to different degrees, along with a healthy amount of electives allowing students to choose their adventure at Iowa State. There are many different systems in place to help students achieve academically: such as learning communities, tutors, and helpful academic advisers. Students will get what they put into it.
Tips for prospective students	Transportation is not a big deal on campus. At most it should only take a student in one corner of campus twenty minutes to walk to the opposite corner. That said, many students choose to bring a bike. There is also a bus system, free to student,s that goes all over campus and to a downtown shopping district for all shopping needs. As far as bringing a personal car, freshman are allowed to have a car. Finding parking for that car is up to the student. After registering with the university students receive different parking permits. Some students choose to register for the cheep stadium parking. This option can create a hassle because it is very time consuming to get to.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a warm, student oriented, institution dedicated to the development of professionalism. Campus offers a staggering amount of diverse opportunities and clubs. On a scale of one to five it earns a four and one half.

Elizabeth from Osceola, IA

12/26/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 23 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	do every piece of homework you are given, but still have time for yourself!
Tips for prospective students	go on a campus vist and look up your professors
Bang for the buck	exspensive, but worth it
Am enjoying being here	I LOVe iowa state, the animal science professors are fun and easy to talk to, and the classes are great!
Am learning a lot	definetly

Zachary from Des Moines, IA

11/10/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

24 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	If you are looking for a large school where you can make a lot of new friends and where there is plenty to do, Iowa State is a good choice. I would also suggest that if you are planning on going into an engineering or agriculture major, Iowa State is a great choice. I myself am an animal science- pre-vet major, and have found that the curriculum is great. Iowa State also provides students with job and internship opportunities with their number one ranked College of Agriculture and Life Sciences job fair. Also, if you are looking to travel, Iowa State really tries to push students to study abroad at least once during their time in college.
Tips for prospective students	If you are planning on coming to Iowa State, I would suggest that you get involved. With the huge amount of clubs and extracurricular activities, it's easy to find something that you like. Also, getting involved will look good on your resume along with giving you fun things to do in your free time.
Bang for the buck	I actually chose Iowa State because it was the cheapest college that I wanted to go to, especially with in-state tuition. It is also a really nice campus with programs in agriculture and engineering that are ranked in the top of the nation. Iowa State also provides many different facilities and resources for student needs, like the Lied Recreation Center and the Student Health Center.
Am enjoying being here	Iowa State has things to do for everyone. It has over 200 clubs and many different extracurricular activities like broom ball and football. I myself am in mountaineering club, students helping research animals club, pre-vet club, and block and bridle club. Iowa State also has a beautiful campus and provides almost any service you would need. They also have scheduled events every week, including game nights, movie nights, and shows. Football games are also a big deal here in case your a football fan. Being in Ames is also nice since the city really accommodates for all of the college students.
Am learning a lot	Personally, I have learned a lot at Iowa State. All of the teachers that I have make sure that students are understanding what is taught in class. Even if you are having problems learning in class, teachers are willing to talk with you after class or during their office hours. You do not just learn the skills for your future career at Iowa State either. Some of the classes that I am taking have really opened my eyes to many of the problems in society, like issues in class and race. You will have no problem learning at Iowa State if you choose this school.

Samantha from Ames, IA

01/06/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

25 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Great for students who are hard workers and are self-motivated. Since the classes are pretty large, you need to be able to succeed without as much individual attention.
Tips for prospective students	Don't take a lot of real hard classes your first semester... limit yourself. I took 12.5 credits my first semester, and it definitely made the transition easier. Also, if available, utilize your peer mentor. They are very helpful and really want to be there for you!
Bang for the buck	It is sort of expensive here. It's not as expensive as a private school, and much more expensive than community college. I think it's right about in the middle.
Am enjoying being here	I love the campus and so many of the teachers are so nice. They make it very easy to get along here. I am from a very small school, and the transition was very easy, thanks to everyone here at Iowa State.
Am learning a lot	Some of the teachers at Iowa State make classes easy, fun, and exciting. However, some of the classes are extremely challenging. Most of the general science classes, such as Biology 211 and 212, and Chemistry 177 and 178, and very difficult. A lot of the electives teach me a lot and I really enjoy taking them.

Tasia from MN

05/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

26 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	- Engineers - Design students - International students
Tips for prospective students	- Live in the dorms freshman and sophomore years! - Get a job; on campus jobs pay more than minimum wage in some venues - Try things you have never tried or maybe don't think you would like at first, but have been intrigued by - Stock up on Cardinal and Gold colored apparel for school spirit and football games
Bang for the buck	As an out of state student, the tuition is a little bit hefty. Out of state students pay about twice as much in tuition as Iowa natives pay, which is not as attractive. However, ISU offers lots of scholarships, grants, and loan opportunities. Although it is a little pricey if don't have Iowa residency, the opportunities offered at ISU make this college worthwhile for out of state students.
Am enjoying being here	There are so many opportunities at ISU! With over 800 clubs and organizations, the option of living on campus in the dormitories, and the centrality of the location in the city of Ames, there is so much to do. I highly recommend dorm life, at least for the first two years, because it gives you the chance to meet new people, interact in different situations, and establish a group of friends with whom you can try new things together! In addition to being an amazing social experience, ISU is great academically and aesthetically. The professors care about their students, the programs of study are extensive and challenging, and the campus is beautiful. There are so many resources made available to students, which makes attending school here at ISU a great experience.
Am learning a lot	Iowa State has some of the best professors that I have worked with; almost all of my professors have been engaging, are passionate about what they teach, and invest in the students. Especially in the smaller classroom setting, there is a lot of personalized attention and respect between teacher and student. However, instructors offer lots of resources for students seeking extra help where individual assistence in class is not available (such as in the larger lecture halls). There are accessible Teacher's Assistants, learning labs, Supplemental Instruction sessions, and office hours. The quality of instruction is excellent, and I am definitely learning a lot.

Zack P from Saint Louis, MO

06/10/2011

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

27 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Engineering Students
Tips for prospective students	Visit the campus Join the mailing list Apply to Iowa State University Like Iowa State University on Facebook Ask questions to current students and past students Visit the website www.iastate.edu
Bang for the buck	Iowa State University has lots of scholarships to offer and is flexible towards payment options such as: monthly payments, semester payments, or how many weeks your family wishes to pay for your education.
Will enjoy being here	The school has over 800 student clubs and organizations to join and participate. Even if you don't find a club that you wish to join you can create one yourself and the school will help.
Will learn a lot	The engineering department is one of the best in the country and is one of the most valued engineering educations according to the Princeton Review.

chris from Rosemount, MN

06/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

28 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	All students can do well and succeed at Iowa State. As long as you can put in the time when it's needed, you will do well. Sometimes you have to work harder than others, but it's only good experience for the rest of your life. As long as you stay on top of homework and are not afraid to come to teachers with problems, you will do well.
Tips for prospective students	-Get plugged in with something right away. A club, group, whatever. You will not be disappointed by the people you get to meet and the experiences you will be able to have. -Find a job. It's easy to think that all your time will be taken up by homework and class, but really, it's not. You will find yourself with more time than you know what to do with. There are many places to work on and off campus, and most pay above minimum wage. Also, it's a good way of staying busy, yet productive. And who can be disappointed when the paychecks come in! -Talk to your teachers the first day of class: form a relationship with them right away. They basically become your parents in a lot of things, and many have great stories or experience they can share with you. Plus, it can help when the time comes to start looking for a job, since most teachers are still in contact with others in their field.
Bang for the buck	Out of state tuition is pricey, there's no doubt. However, there are numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid available for those who need it. Iowa State strives to make its high level of education accessible to all, and if you're in need, the folks in Financial Aid will do their best to make sure coming here doesn't cost an arm and a leg.
Am enjoying being here	ISU is one of the best places to be! There is always something going on. The Memorial Union is constantly holding events, from social dances to fun competitions, hypnotists to movie nights, even free nachos! The Underground, located in the basement of the MU, is another place that is always busy. Bowling, arcade games, pool, you name it! There are also more groups, clubs, and organizations than can easily be named here, so there is no reason to be bored. You can go Greek, join a service club, or join the rock climbing club. Always something happening, from discussing your favorite anime or even gaining valuable experience with the campus news station and being a part of Newswatch 18, which is broadcast on the local cable network. And if you're not in the most socially active of moods, we have something for you too. Lake Laverne is a beautiful place to sit and watch the swans. Or you can go out to Central Campus by the Campanile and sit and read a book on the lawn. Or tour campus to look at all of the various sculptures and memorials. To sum it up, no matter what you wanna do, Iowa State has it!
Am learning a lot	It doesn't matter which degree you pursue, Iowa State has you covered. From Journalism to Advertising to Engineering and Vocal Performance, Iowa State has it all. Classes are taught by the best, with most, such as many Anthropology, TESL, and Journalism, among others , taught by active contributors to the field, who are able to impart insider knowledge to their students. TAs are utilized with lecture classes and recitations to ensure that all students get the attention and intentional guidance they need. With classes from the 100 to the Graduate level, there is always someway to be challenging yourself with your studies. Internships in most majors are highly encouraged, and teachers are always glad to talk to students about their future in the field. All in all, Iowa State is a university that cares.

Jessica from Pavilion, NY

06/18/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

29 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	This school is great for students who are naturally inquizative or enjoy getting involved in a variety of activities. The more you starve for adventure or exploration the better. But really whoever you are, whatever your interested in- there will be someone like you here. Everyone fits in.
Tips for prospective students	Enjoy all of the traditions on campus, such as mass campaniling and avoid stepping on the zodiac, and don't be scared to get involved, ask for help, or to try something for the first time!
Bang for the buck	If you make yourself known amungst the teachers such as exceling academically or showing up at office hours needing more help, the professors really invest time right back into you! They are so helpful and will help you in either understanding the concepts or in the future when your job helping. The teachers are absolutely worth the money the receive!
Am enjoying being here	I am for sure enjoying the time I have spent here. It is a big town with a small town feel! Everyone is very welcoming and friendly... I mean EVERYONE. The experiences from volunteering during VEISHEA to being on student council are priceless and you couldn't have a better time doing it!
Am learning a lot	The learning styles vary from course to course and from major to major; you could be outside, off campus, or having a heated debate over a commercial in advertising classes! Not only have I learned a lot academically but the rumors are true about Iowa State- they do encourage you to become a well rounded person by getting involved. When you pay for tuition here, you are paying for life lessons and academics that you could not imagine until you... enjoy your adventure at Iowa State. :)

Ashley from Des Moines, IA

06/26/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

30 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Definitely join an extracurricular. Get out and meet tons of new people, whether it's a club, an intramural sport, or just a study group. Make sure to mix in some fun with all your hard work!
Bang for the buck	It is kind of expensive for a state school, but if you do your work and stay focused, the University's scholarships can usually cover most of the costs.
Am enjoying being here	I love Ames, IA! It is truly a college town and everything is geared toward the low-income college student with a newly discovered freedom to get out in the world as adults.
Am learning a lot	All of my professors are very helpful and informative, but students in the classrooms are also a good source of information, so when discussion is promoted, take advantage of it.

Bryce from Medinah, IL

07/06/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

31 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Don't bring too much stuff when you move in. Being crammed is a pain, and having extra space is hard to find in College. Be conscious of what you are bringing, and if you really need it. When it comes to meal plans be sure to consider Dining Dollars, and having extra cash since many students lose interest in the dining facilities that the meals plan gets you into.
Bang for the buck	You get every bit of higher education you pay for. Iowa State is kind of expensive if your out of state, but it is priced better than The colleges it compared with. The resources you will have at Iowa State is worth every penny. If your looking for value, then you will spend your money well here.
Am enjoying being here	The people at Iowa State from employee to student are kind people. If you found yourself lost on campus, I would guarantee the first person you asked help from would lead you in the right direction. The campus is beautiful. I dare anyone to find a more colorful and breath-taking sight than Iowa State's central campus in the Fall.
Am learning a lot	I couldn't find a place more motivated to advance the mental strength of their students. They focus on making dynamic study environments and provide endless opportunities for success. The Library is divided in to areas Tailored to multiple different study needs. All professor are required to keep office hours to help students and many of them will make time that works well for your personal needs. They even record some lectures should you accidentally miss class one day.

Samantha from Minneapolis, MN

07/19/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

32 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	People who want the large campus, but with a smaller college feel. Engineering students, art students, people seeking academic rigor.
Tips for prospective students	Avoid Welch Avenue after football games, during Homecoming, and during VEISHEA - there tend to be many rowdy people there. Do participate in clubs, and in residence hall life. Do check out all of the different things to do on campus during VEISHEA week.
Bang for the buck	Out-of-state tuition is a bit steep. I have a couple of scholarships, and it's still tough. But I absolutely love going to ISU, so I'm still trying to make it work.
Am enjoying being here	Campus is beautiful, the professors are intelligent, and the classmates can be really fun. Being involved with clubs is a great way to get to know people, even for introverts like me! Although ISU is a large school with many thousands of students, getting involved in clubs and in your major can make it seem like a much smaller place.
Am learning a lot	Iowa State has a lot to offer academically. The variety of majors and minors, plus the 700+ clubs make it possible to pursue any and all interests you may have. Also: try something new, be it a class or a club. It will be well worth it to broaden your educational horizons from your major.

Tara from IA

07/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

33 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Any kind!
Tips for prospective students	Step up and take advantage of the resources that are offered. They're offered for a reason - to help you out! Organize and manage your time carefully! Get involved! You'll meet people who like what you like, and you'll have a great time.
Bang for the buck	As a state school, the cost is totally worth it. You get all the benefits of a bigger university with the feel of a smaller one because of the centralized campus.
Am enjoying being here	The experience is amazing. ISU is definitely my home away from home. There are so many opportunities to find your place and to meet new people who share common interests and goals.
Am learning a lot	The classes are great and you get out what you put into them.

Autumn from Palmer, IA

07/27/2011

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

34 of 187

Categories	Comments
Will enjoy being here	I'm am loving the campus! I'm starting as a Freshman this August 2011. Though I haven't started, students there for summer classes were helpful and informative, as were the professors at orientation. I can't Wait to attend!

Sarah from Tonopah, AZ

08/23/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

35 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	engineering and agriculture.
Tips for prospective students	take a campus tour before considering. talk to an advisor about your goals and see if it's a good fit for you.
Bang for the buck	having to pay out of state tuition is not easy. i am very satisfied with my learning experience and the opportunities i have available.so overall,the price is well worth the education i am receiving.
Am enjoying being here	I love it here. Beautiful campus,great support group and their academic programs are what I needed.
Academic Rigor	i am currently a sophomore majoring in dairy science and taking pre-vet classes. i am learning and growing more towards my degree.

Vance from Hiawatha, IA

09/07/2011

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

36 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Active, Social Geeks
Bang for the buck	ISU being a state school and all is pretty cheap especially for an in-state student like myself and with the quality of the education you get there it's a huge bargain.
Will enjoy being here	Not only is it a beautiful campus, I have at least a dozen friends going to ISU so it's sure to be a blast.
Will learn a lot	I've heard nothing but good things about their Engineering department and that's where I'm planning on being. I look forward to a great quality education.

Alma from Dexter, IA

09/21/2011

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

37 of 187

Categories	Comments
Will learn a lot	The learning environment and the social scene at Iowa State is said to be fantastic. The school offers many resources for any student who is willing to spend time and look for the opportunities at hand. Many of the students that I know that attend ISU have told me it is a challenge. Although it is a challenge, this college is willing to help you get through it. They offer many forms of assistance such as: tutors, help sessions, study tips, workshops and many helpful people on the campus. Those are just a few of the reasons that I am interested in attending ISU. I know I will benefit and be able to take what I learn and apply it in a real-world situation.

Kaitlin from Lincoln, NE

10/23/2011

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

38 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	I'm an introvert and need to feel like I belong somewhere before I can begin to feel like I fit in, I definitely felt like I belonged here.
Bang for the buck	They have good tuition for out of staters like myself, and special discounts for NE residents.
Will enjoy being here	IA State is one of my top schools, and the campus is gorgeous. I am visiting again and looking forward to it. It's all really compacted, so walking around isn't a hassle and the community that surrounds feels natural, like they want to see you in the future there.
Will learn a lot	I don't know, but I'm hoping I learn tons.

Kyle from Ames, IA

11/14/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

39 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Every type of student has been seen on the campus sidewalks and in the classrooms. If you are a student, it is great for you.
Tips for prospective students	The sooner you realize that you have to work hard to earn an education, the better.
Bang for the buck	The institution is more expensive than average, but it is mostly worth it.
Am enjoying being here	The campus is beautiful and justly awarded high honors each year. There isn't much quite like walking to class under the Fall trees with leaves to match our school colors-cardinal and gold!
Am learning a lot	Most of the instructors are experts in their fields, but there are some bad ones that have slipped through the cracks. The upper level courses usually have better instructors that challenge you (in a good way).

Noah from Roseville, MN

12/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

40 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	It is great for students looking for a big school with a variety of programs. Although you may need to look for the right things for you.
Tips for prospective students	Find as many scholarships as possible. They can be really useful. Also walk around the dorms and meet people. That is the best way to make friends.
Bang for the buck	Being out of state is very expensive. Although it is a terrific school you always here how the different departments are trying to save money. So far I've always been able to talk to the teachers and ask questions. However, the initial cost makes me a little hesitant.
Am enjoying being here	I love it here. I have made some really good friends to hang out with. The opportunities offered here are amazing. Such as Study abroad and extra curricular activities. The campus is beautiful and it is great to walk through when you're going to class.
Am learning a lot	Yes I am learning a lot. The classes are very well laid out. Just make sure you make it to class. ,

Kayla from Davenport, IA

12/21/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

41 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Iowa State University is a great place for students who are independent and really want to be immersed into a caring community. The atmosphere is very warm, but to some it may be a little overbearing. Also, it is perfect for any students who like a quiet and quaint place that is a good environment for studying and social ideas during the week but is still full of good, clean, fun on the weekends.
Tips for prospective students	I would recommend for any student going to college to start planning out what you need for college before the end of your senior year so that you can look for deals and sales to get what you would need. I also suggest visiting the campus of the schools that you may be applying to, sitting in on classes and even staying with someone on the campus in order to get a real view about what living on campus would really be like. However, the most important thing to keep in mind is to do what is best for each student. It is the student's decision where they go to school and what they do with their education and future goals, and although parents can influence their children, the ultimate decision must be made by the student.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State tuition and room and board is like most schools, expensive. Although it is cheaper than some schools in the nation, I definitely feel as though I am paying for what I am getting. I am receiving a great education that will benefit me in the future and the dorms on campus are very neat and kept clean. Also, I cannot complain about the food on campus, at all. There are a lot of different options for food so that you do not have to eat the same things every day. Also, the bus system, called the Cyride, is very convenient to use to get around all of campus, Ames and some places outside of Ames. Overall the campus is very conducive for students and a great place to live.
Am enjoying being here	At Iowa State I really feel at home. The community environment is very welcoming and all of the people there are so friendly. Also, there are a lot of different opportunities offered in order to meet new people and to really become a part of the Ames community. For some it may be a bit of a strange culture shock.
Am learning a lot	At Iowa State I can definitely say that I am learning a lot. I took some college classes in high school but I was nowhere near prepared for what I was about to get myself into. However at Iowa State there are many programs, groups, and people willing to help with homework, test preparation and anything else that a student may need.

Temesgen from MINNEAPOLIS, MN

12/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

42 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Students who are undecided on majors; there's something for everyone here!
Tips for prospective students	Be prepared academically and financially; this is a college. Also, be open minded. ISU is a wonderful campus to find yourself(and other people), only if you are willing to try new things.
Bang for the buck	ISU can be a little pricey, especially if you come from out of state, which I do. There aren't very many scholorships available for out of state students, so it has been pretty tough to pay of my bills.
Am enjoying being here	Iowa State is a very active campus. It's very easy to find something you enjoy here with 800+ clubs and organizations.
Am learning a lot	I am definitely learning a lot of incredible things here at ISU. The professors here really care about the courses they teach, as well as the students they teach it to.

Emily from Omaha, NE

12/25/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

43 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Students with a real passion for learning will love ISU, Iowa State is set up as a students' school. The freedom to pick where you want to live, what you want to study, what you want to do is incredible. Independent students will love ISU.
Tips for prospective students	There's something for everyone at Iowa State, you just need to look for it. There's over 800 clubs, sports, amazing facilities, learning communities and a great campus for spending free time on. Find what you're interested in and take it that much farther.
Bang for the buck	The cost for an out of state student is a little expensive, however compared to the other universities I've visited that are ranked at the the same cost, ISU is giving their students back the most by far.
Am enjoying being here	The campus is designed for the students. It's in a nice sized town with a great bus system to take you wherever you want to go. Teachers love to teach here, the opportunities are endless. The dorms are comfortable, the students friendly and the food is off the charts. There's a place for everyone at ISU.
Am learning a lot	It is evident that the professors at ISU are well educated and interested in what they are teaching. They're knowledgeable about their subjects and willing to give you their time if you need help. Classes are well designed to teach you about a subject in depth. Almost anything you want to study is available to you at ISU.

Mariah from Des Moines, IA

12/26/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

44 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Ag students, engineers, animal science students
Tips for prospective students	Here are some things to keep in mind before coming to Iowa State: 1. Get involved with what you can in high school and if you can continue this in when you get to college. This will help with the transition and will help reduce stress later on. These will help you get scholarships and internships as well. 2. Make sure you get some leadership roles/ experience in high school. It will help you get scholarships and internships for college and after. 3. If college credit classes are offered at you high school I would encourage you to take advantage of these classes because these will help you graduate sooner which means less money you have to pay. Another good thing about this is that you will feel more prepared for what college is like and less classes to take in college. Now for some tips once you get to Iowa State: 1. Keep up your grades. It is very easy to fall behind in classes because some days you don't feel like going to class or doing the homework but you need to go and do the homework. 2. If you are struggling in a class, get help as soon as you can don't wait because if you wait it only gets worse and then it is too late to save your grade. 3. Talk with your advisors. Most of the Advisors on campus are willing to help you decide which classes to take when and work with your strengths and weaknesses. However, they can't do this without information from you, so talk with them in person.
Bang for the buck	It is a good school but it is expensive.
Am enjoying being here	I have enjoyed my time here at Iowa State. There are lots of clubs (over 300) and events here to get involved in. The biggest event on campus is probably VEISHEA which is a week long showcase of all things Iowa State. It is an annual tradition.
Am learning a lot	I am in my second year here at Iowa State and in most of my classes I have learned lots of valuable information. Most of the teachers have been very enjoyable and you can tell they love their jobs and the subjects they teach. However, there are some teachers that have a hard time communicating with you and act like they don't care.

Jodie from Ames, IA

12/30/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

45 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is known as one of the greatest universities for Agriculture and I would highly recommend it to any students interested in Ag.
Tips for prospective students	Meet with your adviser for any questions and especially before you start your first semester. This will help any student understand the process.

Katherine from Omaha, NE

01/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

46 of 187

Categories	Comments
Great for these types of students	Studious, fun-loving, adventurous, friendly, goal-driven
Tips for prospective students	Apply for housing as soon as you can! The best places fill up fast.
Bang for the buck	I really wish tuition was not as high, especially for out-of-staters.
Am enjoying being here	Iowa State is simply a lot of fun! There are clubs and activities for everybody, and overall, people are friendly.
Am learning a lot	I feel my high school prepared be well for college, but I am still learning and growing as a student. ISU classes have challenged me to think and work in new ways. I have developed skills that I could not practice in high school and met interesting instructors and fellow students to continually encourage me to improve.

Kally from Muscatine, IA

01/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

47 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Get involved! Make great friends! Take chances.
Am enjoying being here	Great atmosphere, friendly students and staff, many life changing opportunities.
Am learning a lot	Many of my professors are some of the best in their field. Very knowledgeable and ready to answer questions.

Nate from Ames, IA

01/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

48 of 187

Categories	Comments
Bang for the buck	College is never going to be as cheap as I wish it was.
Am enjoying being here	Campus is beautiful, weather is so-so, and the food is great!
Am learning a lot	Professors are organized and studious.

Joshua from Urbandale, IA

01/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

49 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	i have never felt unsafe here even walking at midnight
Greek Life	never been apart of it but they are everywhere and always doing something good for the society
Clubs and Activities	always something to do
Great for these types of students	everything nothing bad here
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	campenilling where people go andd kiss at the stroke of midnight 2 times a year
Bang for the buck	some of the cheapest tuition cost around
What to do for fun	hanging with friends there is always something to do here.
Food and Dining	great food and great staff
Dorm Life	i love the dorm life, it is honestly amazing. i am a senior and the dorm life gets better every day.
Academic Rigor	some classes challenge you and some dont just depends on your preferences.
Tips for prospective students	just show up and enjoy it truly makes you feel welcome
In three sentences	it is amazing some of the best students come here, and is honestly just an amazing feel to be here. It has the best classes that makes me feel truly welcome. and the people are very friendly and accepting of everyone.

Emily from Estherville, IA

01/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

50 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus is very safe thanks to our help vans and personal campus police.
Food and Dining	The food is the best college food you will ever have. Everyone gets the freshman fifteen.
Dorm Life	The dorms are very nice and they are always kept clean.
Academic Rigor	School should always be your number one priority.
Tips for prospective students	Students who are thinking about Iowa State should really visit to make sure they would like it. If you attend, make sure you make it count because your first year is going to be tough.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is beautiful. The teachers are fantastic. Everyone is very helpful.

Sarah from Cedar Rapids, IA

01/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

51 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I feel very safe on campus. The ISU campus offers free rides late at night so you do not have to walk alone in the dark. They have secure dorms and buildings and have a student friendly campus that automobiles are to adhere to.
Greek Life	I'm not involved with the Greek society but there are many students who enjoy this experience. There are many fraternities and sororities to fit just about any personality and they offer many leadership and community service opportunities.
Clubs and Activities	There are so many clubs and activities that you can get involved with. If they don't have the club you are looking for, they will let you start one.
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is great for students who like the large campus feel but still like to feel at home. The campus is not too spread out and most classes are within walking distance.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	An ISU woman is not a true coed until she has been kissed under the Campanile at the stroke of midnight. After the kiss, she must anonymously drop jelly beans outside each girl's door in her house. Any senior who hasn't achieved coed status before graduation must drop lemon drops. This legend lives on during Mass Campaniling at Homecoming or during the Friday night of Senior Week.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State offers great programs and the in state price is very economical compared to studying at an out-of-state college.
What to do for fun	For fun I go swing dancing, work out at the recreation centers, watch free movies, play Frisbee on the lawn and attend football and basketball games. I have also joined the orchestra and we perform several concerts each semester.
Food and Dining	The food and dining centers offer a variety of choices and healthy food items to select from. They are open most of the time and are kept very clean. They offer a large selection of coffee, sandwiches, hot homemade meals, brick-oven pizza, ice cream, yogurt and dessert bars!
Dorm Life	Dorm life at Iowa State is very nice with enough room to move around and still maintain some privacy. The dorms are clean and updated and offer wireless Internet access, washer and dryers and a stove in the common study areas. Dorm life is a great way to meet new people and encourages people on your dorm floor to get involved with extra activities.
Academic Rigor	As long as you go to class, put in the study time, and go to the review sessions, you should be able to keep up with your academics. The classes are much more demanding the high school so be prepared to study. Although your course load may be heavy and your classes and homework stressful, you're not alone and just know that you can do it if you give 100 percent!
Tips for prospective students	Networking with professors, peer mentors, teacher-assistants, study groups and other students is a great way to open doors and connect with individuals that can help you while you're at college. Get involved with clubs, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities so you can meet new people and discover new interests. Eat, sleep, stay up on your studies and take at least 30 minutes a day for yourself and do something fun!
In three sentences	Iowa State offers tremendous opportunities in academics, leaderships, community, service clubs, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. The campus is one of the most beautiful, warm, friendly, helpful and inviting campuses with many student lead organizations and clubs. ISU offers nice, clean, updated housing along with a healthy meal plan in their dining centers and on-campus restaurants.

Christopher from New Hope, MN

01/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

52 of 187

Categories	Comments
Clubs and Activities	If you think of something, there is probably a club or activity that goes with it here. Sign up for a bunch and don't be afraid to try new things.
What to do for fun	Hang out with your friends, head down to Lincoln way or take the bus (Cyride) to downtown Ames.
Food and Dining	The food is pretty good and there is a wide variety that they change so that you're not eating the same thing every day.
Dorm Life	Definately stay in a dorm at least the first semester and keep your door open. You'll meet a lot of new peoplethat way and that's how you'll meet your friends that you'll have for the next 4 years. Don't play video games ALL day! Get out and interact with your neighbors. It majes the college experience so much more fun.
Academic Rigor	The pace is faster then high school but the teachers go over the material in such a way that you don't feel lost or confused. If do feel lost and confused, the teachers are very friendly and willing to help you succeed. There is also Supplemental Instruction (SI) where upper class students go over the material covered to help explain the concepts.
Tips for prospective students	Take tours of campus to get a feel for it. Even take tours during different seasons to sense of what you'll have to live in.
In three sentences	Iowa State is amazing. The people here are always friendly and helpful. The campus is small enough that walking every where is very feasible but it is large enough that there are always new areas to explore.

Grace from Vermont

01/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

53 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus has a super safe feel, and public safety is always driving around if they are needed.
Greek Life	Greek life is very different then a lot of sororities and fraternities. There are so many fraternities and sororities that the recruitment opportunities really help you find a house that fits you! Each house has their own national philanthropy, meaning that they raise money every semester to give to that charity! They all have beautiful houses, and their are also fraternities and sororities that don't have houses so you can have the family feel but not have to pay house dues or live in house.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	ISU has a very outgoing greek life! Yell Like Hell is a competition before homecoming that the sororities and fraternities pair up and create a crazy skit with cheers and chants talking about ISU! The performances are on central campus and after making second cuts those pairing get to be painted head to toe in red and yellow paint! It's fun to participate in and entertaining to watch! There is also lawn displays which a Fraternity and their pairing will create this huge stage on their lawn and put on a 10 minute skit for the public or anyone who wants to see it! There is a tradition about kissing under the campanile. If you kiss someone under the campanile at midnight then you are supposed to be together forever, or something of that nature.
What to do for fun	ISU has a wonderful green in front of the Campanile that can be used to play frisbee, football or hang out in the sun, read a book, what ever you wish to use it for. There are always performances going on in the CY auditorium. There is free performances and movies playing in the Memorial Union Building. You can just hang out in your dorm with friends or go out partying. One thing that is Huge at ISU is the football games! Everyone goes and the student section is so much fun! We love supporting our team and singing our school song!
Food and Dining	The food is delicious! The dining centers spend a lot of time working on different foods and the variety is great! If the dining center is closed then the C-Store will be open and have smoothies, made to order sandwiches, frozen food, and lots of other wonderful random food/refreshments! The Union Drive dorms also have access to Clyde's dining, which is more grill and pizza! It's delicious! So in other words you will never go starving.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is all what you get out of it! If you sit in your room with the door closed all day, it is likely that you will live a quiet dorm life on your floor. If all your friends are on the floor below you or above you it is easy to take the stairs and hang out there. The learning communities, and houses are a good way to get to know the people in your hallway! You have meetings and events just to chill out with your neighbors! If you don't like your roommate it is EASY to switch and/or politely ask them to switch! If you know who and where you want to dorm with you have to option to sign up with them and where when signing your forming contract.
Academic Rigor	The academic rigor really depends on the professor and what class you are taking. Biology and Chemistry have difficult tests and lots of reading, but other classes like dance and some english classes have less homework levels and easier grading. It all depends on your major and what you enjoy doing!
Tips for prospective students	One thing I would have to tell prospective students is that they will never get bored at ISU! There are uncountable opportunities! Whether looking for clubs, volunteering, greek life, or just someone to study with there is always someone about doing something. Don't be afraid of big lecture halls! There maybe a few hundred students in each class but if you have a question, raise your hand and the professor will answer it. If you don't get a chance to during class most professors stay after class to answer questions and also have office hours and you can email them too! Most professors also put up their powerpoint slides online so you can access them as well.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a large university with the small college feel. It has many students but everywhere I go, I see people I know, and that are in my classes. Everyone is very nice and the professors know what they are teaching.

Kayla from Oak Park, IL

01/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

54 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the campus is very safe. there are call boxes all over campus. the security will escort you back to your dorm if you are out late. the security personnel is very helpful and friendly.
Greek Life	there are numerous greek organizations on campus. the greeks have houses located on or very near the campus.
Clubs and Activities	the university has over 800 clubs and if you don't find something to interest you. you are encouraged to start your own club.
Great for these types of students	the university has something for all types of students. the university encourages students to explore things that they would not normally consider. the university helps to expand your career intrests.
Bang for the buck	the tuition is reasonable. you pay for the first 13 hours any additional hours are included. there is a variety of meal plans that are affordable. some of the dorms do not require meal plans.
What to do for fun	the is a bowling& billards area in the mu. the dorms and the various clubs always have a variety of activities. sports are also a way to have fun at the games. a new atheltic facility will be open that will provide a swimming area and exercise rooms.
Food and Dining	there is always a variety of different types of food that meets the dietary requirements for everyone.
Dorm Life	there are a variety of dorms and they are all very good. living with a new roommate is different and fun.
Academic Rigor	the classes are challenging. develop a study schedule and stick to it.
Tips for prospective students	be open to new experiences and get to know your professors. take advantage of office hours even if you do not require help.
In three sentences	iowa state's teachers are very supportive and helpful. the classes cover a large variety of subjects. there are 800 clubs to become involved in.

Cameron from West Des Moines, IA

01/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

55 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	emergency stations posted throughout campus. local and campus police force. feel very safe and secure wherever i go.
Greek Life	very involved with the community. also throw some
Clubs and Activities	not enough room to write out all the 800+ clubs isu has. if you think about one, chances are it's already at isu.
Great for these types of students	engineers, teachers, foreign exchange students (wherever you go, they are always there)
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	veishea, a week long celebration of the founding of iowa state university. starts in mid april. each day there are different events planned, and on saturday there is a parade, concerts, local food and much more. it is basically a mini state fair. campaniling, where you and your partner kiss under the campanile (big clock tower on campus) when the clock hits midnight.
Bang for the buck	a pretty affordable college. in-state is roughly $14,000 a year, and out-of-state around $18,000? (not sure about out of state)
What to do for fun	campus town always has something going on. some clubs let 18 and above go in until 10pm (must have drivers license)
Food and Dining	they have the best food at isu. some of the food surpasses the quality that some restaurants serve, which says a lot. wherever you're at, there is always a place nearby that has food.
Academic Rigor	depends on the classes you are taking, and what your intended major will be. if you do struggle, there are ways to get help such as tutoring, review sessions, and si (supplemental instruction) in which an upper classmen holds one hour study sessions to help students with course material, or help with questions on the homework.
Tips for prospective students	bring winter clothes! get out and make new friendships by joining one of the 800+ clubs at isu
In three sentences	iowa state has an amazing campus. i am a freshman, and i consider isu to be my home away from home. it is very friendly; the students are friendly and the staff are here to help you succeed in school.

Danielle from Humboldt, IA

01/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

56 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	i feel very safe on campus and can always call security for a ride if needed.
Clubs and Activities	there are over 800 clubs to join and you can also start your own club.
Great for these types of students	isu is a wonderful campus all college students. they have something for every.
Bang for the buck	iowa state university is worth every dollar you spend.
What to do for fun	there are always activities in the dorms and the college has many group activities on campus. the football, basketball and all athletic games are fun to watch.
Food and Dining	the food and dining is excellent with a lot of variety. dinning centers are also well located on campus.
Dorm Life	dorm life has been a wonderful experience for me. i have met many new friends.
Academic Rigor	iowa state university is very challenging but has many resources for help if you need it.
Tips for prospective students	research and visit different colleges first and you will see how wonderful iowa state university is.
In three sentences	iowa state university has a fun and exciting campus life. there are over 800 clubs to join and outstanding learning communities to be involved in. the campus is beautiful.

Brandi from Altura, MN

01/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

57 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the campus is very safe! not only is there a cyclone taxi that runs until 6:00 in the morning and goes all through greek areas. also there are blue towers located strategically throughout campus with a button on them that immediately calls the isu police and/or ames police. i have never felt unsafe at isu as well.
Greek Life	greek life is definitely present at iowa state with over 50 fraternities and sororities. while i am not apart of the greek life, i do not feel pressured to be in one.
Clubs and Activities	there are over 800 clubs and activities to be apart of that range all across the board. i am involved in habitat for humanity and i love it!
Great for these types of students	iowa state university is great for students who are interested in being independent, meeting a lot of great new people, and looking for great opportunities for experience in their field.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	there is the tradition in the memorial union where if one were to walk over the zodiac upon entering or leaving they will fail their next test. the only way to reverse this is to throw a penny into the fountain. another is campiniling. campiniling is where a couple kiss under the campinile, which is considered to be the way to become a true iowa-stater.
Bang for the buck	though i am paying out-of-state tuition, i am very pleased with iowa state university and would have to say i am definitely getting my moneys worth!
What to do for fun	i enjoy working out, doing work with my clubs (activities, volunteering), and hanging out with my roommates!
Food and Dining	the dining centers are much better than the private school i used to attend. there are so many options!
Academic Rigor	majoring in agricultural biochemistry, my courses are very difficult and challenging.
Tips for prospective students	campus may seem very large but after a few weeks it begins to feel very small.
In three sentences	iowa state university is a beautiful school with a strong background in science! i have found that there are so many opportunities for research and internships as well!

Danielle from Milwaukee, WI

01/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

58 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	there are always busses running, and a safe transportation system is in place for those traveling on campus at night. that being said, isu is an extremely safe campus. never once have i feared walking by myself on campus, even at night. the people here mean no harm, and if they do, there are city and university police workers to deal with them.
Greek Life	as previously stated, greek life is very involved with isu, however isu is not a greek school. sororities and fraternities are seen as organizations rather than status symbols, however they do good work for the community and have a very active social schedule.
Clubs and Activities	there is a clubfest every semester for students at isu. with over 200 clubs to choose from, every student can find an activity they enjoy. intramural sports are huge at isu, and most students participate in them. dance and theatre have regularly scheduled shows, and they are open auditions to anyone in the school, not just in those programs. there is a student government, and the veishea committees help plan an annual festival that takes over isu every year.
Great for these types of students	students who go here should be friendly and outgoing, as that is the feel of the campus. you must be willing to work hard, as coursework can be difficult here. it's a very science-based school, so it's great for students who want to pursue engineering, chemistry, physics, etc. the greek system is very involved with isu, and they have a lot of houses to choose from.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	campaniling, or kissing at midnight under the campanile (clock tower) at isu is a very long-standing tradition. it is said that you are not a true iowa stater until you participate in this tradition. cherry pies at the veishea festival are a tasty tradition, and veishea is the largest student-run college festival in the country. it always brings great music acts and food to campus.
Bang for the buck	i'm from out of state, so it's really pricey. i wouldn't be here if it wasn't for an athletic scholarship, and i really dislike how much money big universities try to squeeze out of students. however, as an in state value, it's huge. the faculty are stellar and so are the programs, and i wouldn't trade my opportunities here for anything. if money is no object for you and your family, iowa state is a great choice if you're not from iowa, especially if you want to study engineering.
What to do for fun	isu isn't in a big city, so you have to get creative if you're under 21. there are a ton of parks around, so go for a walk around there or go swimming at petersen pits when they weather's warm. sporting events are big around here, and rooting for the cyclones gives our students a sense of community. if you have an apartment, trying to make creative new foods is fun and delicious. for the over-21 set, there are a plethora of bars in campustown and downtown ames to explore, all with a different theme. try london underground; it has a telephone booth in the bar!
Food and Dining	the food is great for the first 2 years, but if you have a meal plan for the third year, the food begins to all taste similar. however, dining centers are all around campus, and you have easy access to many dining options. there are also a number of convenience stores around campus for snacks and the occasional meal. isu does a good job of making food available.
Dorm Life	the dorms really are a community. most of your friends will come from the dorms, and you automatically have a group of people to hang out with, join clubs with, or form a team for intramural sports. living in the same place gives you easy social interaction with people in your same boat, and you may find a very close friend out of random assignment. also, don't fear a random roommate! it is generally better to have one than live with your friend, as there are no expectations with someone new.
Academic Rigor	classes here are rather difficult, however if you take notes in class, read the book, and study for tests adequately, getting an a is completely feasible. but you do have to put in work; college is not high school, and you can no longer get away with not studying and expect a passing grade. skipping class here is not the best idea, as a lot of professors give attendance points or in-class quizzes. make sure you actually care about your work, you are paying to learn, after all.
Tips for prospective students	1. take notes in class and from your text. although it may seem tedious, you'll be engraining knowledge deeper into your mind with each word you write. 2. get enough sleep. you can't learn if you aren't awake. 3. find clubs that you're interested in and join them. isu has hundreds of opportunities for you to get involved with on-campus activities. 4. be friendly. our students here are kind and outgoing, so don't worry about making new friends, it's easy to do here! 5. get to know your professors. they can help you review for tests, and they are more likely to let you make up work if they actually know your name and face. 6. enjoy your time in the present. the past is the past, and your future looms, but college is an experience you can never replace. so don't let is pass you by!
In three sentences	iowa state is science and engineering based, however the opportunities do not stop there. isu has a wealth of creative and practical clubs to get involved in, as well as performance showcases and technology challenges. an isu student is kind, helpful, cheerful, and always filled with cyclone pride!

Conner from Morrison, IL

01/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

59 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the police are always looking out in the best interest of the students. they will show up in no time if you call and will even give the girls rides home.
Greek Life	the greek life is amazing! i joined sigma phi epsilon and i believe that it has changed me for the better. it put new and exciting things on my resume and allowed me to meet a huge group of friends fast.
Clubs and Activities	best way to fill up your resume fast and get leadership experience.
Great for these types of students	someone looking for a large school that not everyone knows each other but also feels like you always see the same people.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	at midnight many people like to kiss under the bell tower to become a true iowa stater.
Bang for the buck	out-of-state tuition is much higher than in state but school is going to be expensive no matter what.
What to do for fun	the memorial union always has things to do on the weekends. there are also tons of intramurals to try out!
Food and Dining	food is always good but can get old fast. try different places on campus.
Dorm Life	great way to meet new people fast and have fun on the weekends.
Academic Rigor	mechanical engineering is a very hard major but it prepares you for the real word.
Tips for prospective students	take advantage of every involvement opportunity you get.
In three sentences	the best choice of my life! very high quality school where the people are always willing to help. it is also very easy to find your way around.

Kevin from Ames, IA

02/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

60 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	at iowa state there are many many things to do for fun. every thursday, friday, and saturday there are free movies at carver. the basketball and football games are very entertaining and competitive. also, iowa state has many clubs and intramural activities. i played flag football and it gave me a chance to meet new people and i met most of my best friends by playing intramural sports.
Food and Dining	there is plenty of food to go around. the only downfall is the selection of foods. it seems as though it's the same food every week, but, luckily, the food is very good. they have many special dinners such as thanksgiving, christmas, and even a super bowl dinner.
Dorm Life	dorms are very close. my floor feels like a family to me and the dorms are clean and spacey. iowa state is a great community to live in!
Academic Rigor	i am a mechanical engineer and iowa state makes sure to challenge you. they only accept the best of the best when it comes to your field of study. however, as hard as the academics are, the professors make sure you will succeed if you show you want to.
Tips for prospective students	keep working hard and opportunities will present themselves. when great opportunities arrive be sure to make use of it. most importantly don't give up! keep trying even when the going gets tough.
In three sentences	iowa state university is one of the best universities in the country when it comes to engineering. they challenge you and prepare you for getting a job. all the professors care about you as an individual and help you to succeed.

Lauren from Boone, IA

02/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

61 of 187

Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	i love iowa state food. there are lots of choices and you can usually find exactly what you are looking for. it's even better that you are able to always enjoy meals with good friends.
Dorm Life	there are many different types of dorms for a person to choose from. i think iowa state offers a great variety of dorms so that every person gets what they are looking for.
Academic Rigor	iowa state is focused on academic achievement. getting a good education is what students are looking for when they apply to this college. professors are willing to always be there for their students and find education to be at the top of their priority lists. iowa state demands excellence from their students.
Tips for prospective students	college is important and deserves to be taken seriously. while partying is an option, studies should always come first because they help you the most in the long run. it could be the memories you are going for but getting a good education first will lead to more and better memories for your future. college is to be taken seriously without a doubt.
In three sentences	iowa state is an extremely friendly atmosphere where you can feel right at home as if you are living in a small town. it is a beautiful campus where the environment is of high importance. it's a great place to pursue academic goals as well as get involved in activities that appeal to your interests.

Benjamin from Waterloo, IA

02/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

62 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	don't feel unsafe
Greek Life	haven't really participated.
Clubs and Activities	will probably join design club once entering into that area after first year.
Great for these types of students	all students with different back grounds.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	maple area is nice.
Bang for the buck	iowa state has a great design and engineering program.
What to do for fun	i study pretty hard but attend sporting events, dorm floor meetings, and major lectures.
Food and Dining	good food lots of choices!
Dorm Life	our dorm is small and cramped looking for another place next year.
Academic Rigor	my program is tough and i need to spend time studying. some of my friends not so much!
Tips for prospective students	be active in sporting events such as cyclones football and basketball. attend the get together for incoming freshman before school starts to learn about iowa state.
In three sentences	iowa state university has a wonderful campus. everything is in walking distance or a bus is available. the students are very friendly.

Emily from Ames, IA

02/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

63 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	i have never felt uncomfortable once on campus.
Greek Life	lots of different options.
Clubs and Activities	more clubs than you could imagine. you can be involved in as many clubs as you want.
Great for these types of students	there is something for everyone.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	campanile is the famous clock on campus. someone plays the organ inside the clock everyday at noon.
Bang for the buck	you get a lot for your money. cost is average.
What to do for fun	be involved in clubs and sports.
Food and Dining	lots of different options. there is always something new to try.
Dorm Life	lots of dorm options. close to dining centers and student activities.
Academic Rigor	have to study hard to be successful!
Tips for prospective students	actually read your textbook.
In three sentences	iowa state university is the number one college in america. it has many different options for everyone. it is also fun!

Tjaden from Madrid, IA

02/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

64 of 187

Categories	Comments
Greek Life	this is the biggest life changing decision you can make at any university or college is going greek. greek life at isu is second to none(in my opinion) the people are amazing the atmosphere is awesome. parents need not to worry as much weather your son/daughter is getting it done academically. greeks at isu have required study hours and have to maintain high grades to stay active in chapters. at isu greeks basically run the campus, in all forms of student leadership you will find a greek (except irha(intra-residence hall association)) this includes but is not limited to: veishea, greek week (obviously), homecoming, gsb (government of the student body), and many others i'm sure i'm missing. if you want leadership and bonds the go far and beyond friends go greek!
What to do for fun	first its college it is always a blast. the bars are fun, house parties are fun, and so are fraternity parties. if partying is not for you then there are plenty of fun intramurals, and shows/events through the sub (student union broad) or sac (student activities center).
Food and Dining	the dining centers serve great food with lots of healthy options. .they also are great for employment if you want some extra spending money.
Dorm Life	the dorms are great if you want to meet lots of new people when you get to college, always keep your door open and keep and open mind when meeting other freshmen.
Academic Rigor	the programs are challenging but are passable, the professors are tough but willing to assist you if you are willing to help yourself.
Tips for prospective students	live in the dorms first semester and join a fraternity/soroity. study often, set yourself up for a strong start because it is really hard to raise your gpa later in college.
In three sentences	iowa state university is an excellent academic university that fosters both academic and personal growth opportunities. at iowa state i have made life-long friends through greek life which i highly recommend all incoming freshmen look into. the programs offered at here are ranked nationally high especially the engineering fields of study.

Felicia from Yale, IA

02/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

65 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the campus has telephones on every floor of dorms and located around the campus. so these can be used if one ever needs any emergency help. they also have a help van that will pick you up and take you anywhere you need to go on campus. even when your car is broken down or you locked your keys in it. they also have lighted pathways and lights all around at night so you never feel scared. there is also a person for every floor of dorms you can go to at night if you have any trouble at all or have been locked out. you need a key card to get into your dorm room. this is also a safety rule so that strangers can't get in.
Great for these types of students	this college is best for students looking to go into engineering and design majors. it is good for students who want to college experience but still want a homely feel.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	in the mu there is a mosaic pattern on the floor and they say if you step on it that you will fail your next exam. if you do step on it then you must go outside and throw a coin in the fountain and it will reverse the curse.
Bang for the buck	when thinking of the price it is all worth it. the tuition is nothing compared to other schools and iowa state is one of the best for many majors such as fashion design. you get the perfect college experience and make life time friendships.
What to do for fun	there is always stuff to do for fun. every dorm area has a game room that people can hang out in. every weekend there is always new movies playing in one of the buildings that is free to students. also at the mu there is late night at the mu once a month that has tons of activities and prizes to be won. all the other nights they have bowling, bingo, and pool to enjoy. not to mention the many clubs that will suit any type of person.
Food and Dining	the dining areas are very clean and have a large variety of food options from salad bar, asian, snacks, italian, and normal home cooked meals. i happen to work at a dining center so i know what happens behind the scenes and i can honestly say that the workers are all about the students. we are always thinking of new ways to spice up the meals and have fun nights for holidays and special occasions.
Dorm Life	the dorm life is a blast. i have made many friends, even ones i plan to live with next year. the bathroom areas are very clean and the food market place is in walking distance for a late night snack. they also have computer labs on every floor in case you have a last minute paper to print.
Academic Rigor	the classes are motivating and can be challenging at times, but teachers are always willing to help anyone struggling or that has questions. if you study and attend every class it will be more enjoyable.
Tips for prospective students	make sure that when going to the dining centers you don't pig out every time because the food is delicious and it's hard not to do so, but if you do the new state gym added this year can help you keep in shape.
In three sentences	iowa state is a place that always has something exciting happening. there are eating locations within walking distacances no matter where you are. it has over 200 clubs so that everyone can find the perfect group and friends to fit in with.

alias

02/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

66 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	join a club. go to the $1 movies.
Food and Dining	food is good, some almost like home cooked as long as your mom isn't paula dean. down size your meal plan from the recommended $$$ amount if you won't be eating on dining dollars on the weekends.
Dorm Life	dorm life is what you make of it. don't be shy. make new friends, they are your new family. dorms are comfy and safe.
Academic Rigor	depends on the major but all is doable.
Tips for prospective students	stay focused, find a club, seek a tutor if needed.
In three sentences	anyone can be at home at iowa state, the jr college transfer or the 4 years and done brain.

Astrid from Bayamon, PR

02/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

67 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	it's safety is really good.
Clubs and Activities	there's literally a club for everything.
Great for these types of students	any type of students but specially for those who really want to try new things.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	everything is about the campanile. campaniling to become a true iowa stater and listening to requested songs on friday noon.
What to do for fun	you definitively don't have as many options as living in a big city, but there are still a lot of places to go and have some fun. plus there are a lot of on campus events.
Food and Dining	good food and good variety
Dorm Life	dorms are really neat and it's a lot of fun to live in them since so many people of all years live in them.
Academic Rigor	classes might get hard but there is also a lot of help available for students.
Tips for prospective students	be ready to do a lot of walking, and come with an open mind to try new things.
In three sentences	this university is a real adventure. the campus is really beautiful and the academic programs are good as well. also there's a lot of student groups so you can always find something to do.

Evan from Melbourne, IA

02/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

68 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	rape boxes & a safe small town with too many cops for our own good.
Greek Life	egh.. its here but who cares?
Clubs and Activities	lots with plenty of variety.
Great for these types of students	rich asians?
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	must have a meal plan to live in the dorms.. that is a few extra k a year.
Bang for the buck	wayyyy overpriced for what you get.
What to do for fun	do things with friends off campus.
Food and Dining	precooked everything for $10/meal on average.
Dorm Life	smelly. overpriced...
Academic Rigor	lots of easy busy work.
Tips for prospective students	keep looking!
In three sentences	everything is very overpriced. teachers are hard to understand and classes are too big for their abilities. good place for in-staters i guess...

Jamie from Bettendorf, IA

02/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

69 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the isu department of public safety escort service is an awesome resource available; if there is ever a time, late at night or early in the morning and you're on campus, they'll pick you up, no questions asked, and take you to your wanted destination.
Clubs and Activities	a great group to get involved with is the iowa state university cyclone football varsity marching band. almost 300 students from every academic field come together and work toward putting on great performances at the football games!
What to do for fun	one of my favorite activities to take advantage of is the isuafterdark held at the memorial union. once a month, the campus as a whole is invited to play bingo, watch great performances by famous comedians or hypnotists, or make holiday crafts. such events like this are great for being able to still have a great time, while making smart decisions.
Food and Dining	there are quite a few options available as far as eating is concerned. besides the three or four major dining centers, there are several smaller grills, like clyde's, or cafes, such as the hub, which carries caribou coffee. places like these are great for grabbing a quick bagel or hot sandwich and coffee between classes.
Dorm Life	i opted to live on an honors floor, and it's been a great balance between the academic and social aspects of college life. choosing to live in friley was a great choice for me because it's very close to the majority of my classes, the newly-opened state gym, and the union drive community center (where all the food is!).
Academic Rigor	i truly feel challenged here; professors expect your best 100% of the time. however, if you feel like you're struggling, academic help is also readily available. professors and teacher's assistants hold regular office hours, there are supplemental instruction sessions, and there are general help rooms for every field of study.
Tips for prospective students	be sure to use small breaks wisely, even if it's only a half hour between your next class. study flashcards, read ahead for your upcoming lecture, or do some practice problems. this type of effective time-usage will really help in the long run!
In three sentences	iowa state university is an excellent academic institution that also provides awesome outlets for exploring your own adventure here. with over 800 clubs available, it's so easy to get involved, whether it be with an academic learning community, or a dodge ball tournament with your floor-mates. an added bonus- campus is beautiful!

Edward from Muscatine, IA

02/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

70 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	there is always something to do, sports, plays, exercise facilities. if you are bored, it is your own fault!
Tips for prospective students	be sure to check out all available living option and ask a lot of questions when touring campus.
In three sentences	it is a beautiful campus and there are many opportunities and support systems for students. the classes are hard but there are plenty of supports such as tutors and residential learning communities. it is a big university with small college feel.

Rian from Rapid City, SD

02/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

71 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	extremely safe. campus security can be seen regularly as well as special services such as the helpvan help ensure a safe environment.
Clubs and Activities	wide range of activities for everyone.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	central campus is something unique to iowa state. this is a common space utilized by thousands of students each day.
Food and Dining	many options here. the campus offers four very different dining centers which run continuous hours to accommodate all students. other option also appear all across campus.
Dorm Life	one of the best! one cannot beat living in the largest dorm in the us. friley is something quite unique. most residence halls are recently updated and in great shape for their ages.
Academic Rigor	very competitive nationally. research is a key issue in many fields across the campus. working cross disciplines is a unique format on this campus.

Kaitlyn from West Des Moines, IA

02/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

72 of 187

Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	there are many places to eat on campus and they are all great. there is panda express, caribou coffee, the all-you-can-eat buffet at the dining center, marketplace stores for snacks, and clydes restaurant.
Dorm Life	dorm life is awesome! you meet so many people and make friends that will last a lifetime.
Academic Rigor	the college of engineering at iowa state goes through a weeding out process during a student's first two years here and then they get into the major classes. a lot of time is spent on physics and calculus but it is all worth it.
Tips for prospective students	look at your intended major and see what classes, if any, are offered at your high school that would correspond with your major. that way you can get ahead in your major by potentially earning transferable college credits and learn about what you are hoping to do with your life.
In three sentences	iowa state university is helping prepare me for becoming a mechanical engineer. the professors all really care about each student succeeding as long as you are willing to put in the effort. it is a great school and high school students should definitely check it out.

Sara

02/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

73 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	at anytime of the day or night, there is always a help van that you can call and they can come pick you up or give you a ride anywhere that you need too. your ca will give you their number and you can also call them if you need to talk to someone.
Clubs and Activities	dance marathon, tennis club, floor board or hall board are just a few of the clubs that isu offers. also, each major has clubs that you can join too.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	in the memorial union there is a zodiac sign on the floor that you must not walk over, because legend has it that who ever walks over the zodiac will fail their next test.
What to do for fun	on campus, there are tons and tons of clubs and organizations to join. you could also go greek. at the memorial union there is bowling, or every thursday night there is a free movie that is available to watch with your friends. i know this probably won;t sound too much fun, but getting a job will help you meet more people.
Food and Dining	iowa state does have meal plans but they also have cycash. all around campus there are different cafes or little convenience shops that have food and drinks that you can buy with your cycash. overall the dining hall food is good, but you do need to watch what you eat.
Dorm Life	freshmen year is a transition from high school to college and for some its the first time being away from their parents, so dorm life is pretty awesome for meeting new people and getting involved. you will have a ca on each floor and they are always there to help or answer any questions you have or even just to talk. most likely you will have a roommate and for a lot of students they do a random search, just remember always be respectful.
Academic Rigor	people might say it depends on your major, but what is the same for all is that everyone has homework, projects, and tests. its up to you how you handle it. it does get stressful and studying does take up most of your time.
Tips for prospective students	make sure you go on a campus visit with a cyclone aid, they can help and answer any questions you might have, plus you can see the campus through a student's eyes.
In three sentences	iowa state university is a beautiful green campus. ranked for agricultural, engineering, and design, isu also offers numerous clubs and organizations to get involved with.

Joseph from Ames, IA

02/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

74 of 187

Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	all around campus there are plenty of places to eat. you may just grab or drink or small smack.
Dorm Life	i lived in the dorms for one year. i did not get involved in the activities on my floor, but that was my choice the chances always existed.
Academic Rigor	iowa state continues to push students, but provides the necessary resources in order to succeed.
In three sentences	when i first attend the university i was not prepared mentally to learn. as now that i have gone back iowa state has been a great bedrock to expand my knowledge of the world. i have recently changed majors to history and hope to graduate next year

Meghan from Ames, IA

02/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

75 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	i think safety on campus is great! i have never felt scared to walk on campus by myself at night. though if you do feel unsafe there is a service that you can call that can give you a ride to where ever you need to go.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	one amazing tradition that occurs every year would be veishea. the letters in veishea stand for the original colleges of iowa state university. its a week long celebration that presents the college to the community and shows them what we're all about. there are tons of activities that go on during veishea such as a parade, concerts, and taste of veishea, and those are only to name a few.
What to do for fun	the campus provides tons of activities for students to participate in.
Food and Dining	the dining centers on campus provide great food! there are a lot of dining centers on campus and they are provide a wide arrange of food for all students.
Dorm Life	dorm life is amazing! i lived in the dorms my first year and i met so many new friends! there was always someone there to talk to, hang out with, or help you. it was a great experience and a lot of the friends that i have today are people that i met at the dorms.
Academic Rigor	most classes tend to be challenging but its better because it gets your brain thinking.
In three sentences	iowa state university is a great school with so much to offer and a wide range of culture among students. the campus and is big and beautiful and is a perfect place to just go for a walk. iowa state is big on academics and strives to help its students achieve!

Katie from Sumner, IA

02/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

76 of 187

Categories	Comments
Clubs and Activities	you name it, there's a club for that.
What to do for fun	many isu sponsored events. m-shop: many small bands and comedians preform here. the underground: bowling alley in the basement with arcade games and multiple pool tables.
Food and Dining	three dining centers and many cafes scattered around campus so food is just a few steps away.
Dorm Life	variety to choose from, and after freshmen year, you can choose to live at some of the on-campus apartments!
Academic Rigor	great students that work hard to achieve there academic goals with professors there to guide them on their way.
Tips for prospective students	-destination iowa state for incoming students is the best experience -iowa state has many great traditions including veishea
In three sentences	most beautiful campus with professors that connect with you. everything is centrally located so walking to class is must even though there are cyrides for those crappy days. go state!

Courtney from Ames, IA

02/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

77 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	iowa state campus unique. unlike many other large schools, isu campus has its separate area within the town of ames. the campus is confined and extremely safe for walkers, joggers, and bikers and anytime of day. there are many light posts that light up each and every sidewalk throughout campus. isu also has the convenience of the help van. this is a service from the isu police and this number should be programmed into every students phone. at any time, if you have any problem, call help van! they have vans circling campus all the time to pick you up and give you a lift.
Greek Life	the greek life at iowa state is very large. there are many fraternities and sororities to join. some focus primarily on academics, while others specialize in volunteer work and giving back to our community. greek life is another fabulous way to get involved in exciting opportunities at isu and meet more wonderful people.
Clubs and Activities	iowa state has thousands of clubs. each year they come together to host club fest. all students are invited free of charge to come see what each club has to offer. you can visit each club's booth, pick up any brochures with further information, and possibly snag some free gifts! club fest always opens my eyes to many new clubs that i hadn't thought existed. its an opportunity to try new things and meet more awesome people.
Great for these types of students	there are activities on campus for everyone and anyone! if you are worried you will not fit in, worry no more. there is a niche here for you!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	the campus has many fun traditions. the campus is known for its large campanile tower that sounds bells on the hour and plays popular songs during celebrations. campaniling is a special tradition on campus that consists of taking your loved one to kiss under the campanile. this deems you a 'true iowa stater.' there is also the zodiac imprinted onto the lobby floor of the memorial union. the tradition is to walk around it and never across it, for superstition that you may fail your next exam. lastly, the swans of lake laverne are a must see at isu! their names are lancelot and elaine, and they are very used to the students on campus.
Bang for the buck	i am from out of state, and hesitated to leave home, but i could not be any happier with my decision to come to isu.
What to do for fun	join one of the thousands of clubs put together by students at isu! there is a club for anything that interests you! and, in the off chance that there is not, you can start your own! intramural sports are also extremely popular on campus. win a free t-shirt in the championship! iowa state also provides free late night activities, such as; bingo, bowling, crafts, and free movies!
Food and Dining	the food quality on campus is amazing. there are many restaurants and convenience stores (c-stores) located throughout campus. most food can be purchased using dining dollars that can be added to your isu card, so that you do not need to bring money to campus. our udcc dining hall is a must see! also, stop in to the hub and caribou coffee on central campus for a great lunch or study spot!
Dorm Life	the dorm life at isu is a great place for incoming freshmen to meet new people and take part in all the campus activities. many students choose to stay in dorms throughout their sophomore, junior and sometimes senior year.
Academic Rigor	the programs at isu are top of the line. while many of the courses may be rigorous, the professors and staff truly care about your learning experience. they make time to meet with you when you need further help. the college also provides many opportunities to help your education, such as; tutor services, review sessions, and supplemental instruction.
Tips for prospective students	as a prospective student, i would suggest touring the campus! it is absolutely gorgeous. don't be afraid to ask anyone (especially students) questions about isu. also, attend an isu sporting event or performance while in town. you can only truly understand hilton magic, or the power of the jack trice stadium if you participate!
In three sentences	iowa state university has exceeded my expectations in many ways. they have proven to have top notch professors who are willing to take time out of their lives to help students learn. the campus is inviting, and the students come together to make isu feel like a family!

Joseph from Ames, IA

02/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

78 of 187

Categories	Comments
Greek Life	the best thing that ever happend to me. join pi kappa alpha
What to do for fun	ames recived an a- for it rating on a partying scale. ames is a great town to have fun in and i love it. go greek.
Tips for prospective students	pick your mjaor early and stick with it. don't slack off and pick your dorm choice wisely. go greek!
In three sentences	a great campus scenically. a amazing and active greek community. a good school for a lot of majors. i.e engineering vet-med

Garret from Burlington, IA

02/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

79 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	go to sporting events, join a club, play in intramural sports, go to concerts.
Food and Dining	plenty of options for dining
Dorm Life	you get out of it what you put into it.
Academic Rigor	plenty of choices for classes.
Tips for prospective students	it is a good idea to figure out what you want to study by the end of the first semester.
In three sentences	the course work is rigorous, but not over encumbering. there is plenty to do between clubs, intramural sports, and other of activities. the city is a good campus town with enough services to make it seem like a big city, while still maintaining a small town feel.

Kathleen from Cresco, IA

02/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

80 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	they have an escort system where you will be picked up from anywhere in ames, then dropped off at your destined location. i used this a lot, having been living at the towers.
Greek Life	not a fan, but that doesn't mean we have a good one. it is just not my personality to be part of greek life, other than in national honor societies.
Clubs and Activities	there are too many to name. almost anything that you could be interested in is either here or you can create the club.
Great for these types of students	this university is great for people who like having a lot of people around to interact with.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	the campanile is where you kiss your true love at midnight. if you can walk around lake lavern with your sweet heart with out saying a word then it means true love. streaking between the bells of the campanile clock bells across campus.
Bang for the buck	? i am not sure what this means.
What to do for fun	i go out with friends on the weekends. i am involved in different clubs, like the isu winter guard. also i go to a lot of movies!!
Food and Dining	the food is great the first month or two, but then everything starts getting old and boring. luckily there are many food places to eat at to choose from. the breakfast is always great.
Dorm Life	it is good for me because i was matched up with an amazing roommate, but i know others that were not as lucky. also some dorms are a lot better than others, having the biggest factor of air conditioning.
Academic Rigor	classes definitely take work to get good grades. i am always studying and working on homework.
Tips for prospective students	be prepared to walk a lot and everywhere. classes are definitely not like high school, and sometimes the professors are really hard to understand.
In three sentences	iowa state university has a beautiful campus. the campus is thriving with clubs, activities, and organisations just waiting to be joined. i am glad i chose to go to iowa state because i love the people that i can now call my friends.

BriAnna from Rock Island, IL

02/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

81 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	they have nightly transportation for when the buses stop running. there are usually constant patrols around campus along with emergency telephones to contact someone when you need help
Clubs and Activities	there are so many things to get involved in. whatever you can name, they have it. you won't be bored here.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	the one tradition that is the cheesy romantic one, is to kiss under the champinile on homecoming.
Bang for the buck	iowa state wouldn't have been my first choice had it not been for the scholarsips they offered. they did turn out to be better than i intended.
What to do for fun	there are activitie nights that they hold every month at our memorial union. there are 18 and up night clubs.
Food and Dining	it gets very repetitive, and isn't very healthy.
Dorm Life	it's ok. the bathrooms get very nasty.
Academic Rigor	the courses are stimulating. they don't have to be hard as long as you take the time out needed for studying.
Tips for prospective students	college is nothing like high school. they won't baby you. your have to stay on top of your work or procrastination will set in.
In three sentences	iowa state is a great school, but not very diverse. the teachers and organizations are very welcoming. it is very easy to get around.

Joshua from Panora, IA

02/25/2012

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

82 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	the campus safety is really important at isu. iowa state has 24/7 security throughout the campus for the student's protection.
Greek Life	greek life at iowa state is tremendously good with the many different sororities available to you. i have multiple friends who are living the greek life and they love it!
Clubs and Activities	clubs and activities are everywhere at iowa state university and i have heard that they are the best college college in iowa with clubs and activities.
Great for these types of students	students who want to be involved are in luck if they want to attend iowa state university because there are hundreds of different ways to be involved at this college. i think that it is good to keep on going with being involved especially if you were involved in high school.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	veisha is a huge tradition at iowa state. in this tradition there will be parades, food, and live music at iowa state university. i plan to help with the veisha live music in the future because it would be very helpful for what i want to do in the future. veisha is located on campus and it is every year during the summer.
Bang for the buck	iowa state gives many scholarships for incoming freshman or even students who are enrolled at iowa state university.
What to do for fun	one thing that i am really excited about is the maintenance shop on campus at iowa state. i plan to go into the music industry after college with a career that involved music marketing or music management. the maintenance shop is a small music venue where i will try my hardest to get involved in.
Food and Dining	i have visited iowa state many times this past year and there are so many different things to eat in ames. i was amazed to find that the campus food was actually good and i am excited to eat the food at the university.
Dorm Life	the dorm life is incredibly good at iowa state university where there are many different choices to pick from. living in a dorm your freshman year will help you meet new people and strengthen your education right off the bat. i can't wait to move into my dorm with one of my high school friends this fall.
Academic Rigor	iowa state's professors care about there students even though iowa state is a big college. there are people throughout iowa state who will help you get the grades you want and help you make it through any challenges that you will face along the way. one reason why i really love iowa state is the fact that there are people who can help me all around me.
Tips for prospective students	iowa state university will help you get the right amount of knowledge to be ready for all of the challenges you will face in the future after college. iowa state has over 100 majors so no matter what you are looking into iowa state will more than likely have it. iowa state will give you the best college experience.
In three sentences	iowa state university is the perfect fit for anyone who wants to be successful in the future with their intended career. i believe that iowa state will help me prepare and get ready for life after college. i am excited to start my adventure at iowa state university in the fall of 2012.

Courtney from Ankeny, IA

03/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

83 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	campus security is constantly keeping our home safe.
Clubs and Activities	so many clubs!
Great for these types of students	there are places for everyone to go and things for everyone to do!
What to do for fun	you can go to one of many workout centers, ride a bus to basically anywhere in ames, go to free movies hosted by clubs, or make new friends by joining clubs.
Tips for prospective students	join clubs you would be proud to put on resumes and get involved.
In three sentences	iowa state has one of the most beautiful campuses i have ever been on. it has a friendly atmosphere, and people too. the classes and professors do everything possible to make you have a great stay at the college.

Samantha from Diamond Bar, CA

03/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There's a Help Van that can transport you if you ever feel unsafe walking around at night on campus.
Clubs and Activities	There's something out there for everyone, guaranteed. For the sciences, the gamers, the cooks, everyone.
Great for these types of students	Hard working.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	You're only a true Iowa Stater until you get kissed at midnight under the bell tower, aka the Campanile. Pretty neat.
What to do for fun	There are clubs and bars up around the university, so if you like to dance and drink, it's a good place. There's a movie theater some miles away. 30 minutes to Des Moines, so it's not too bad. Otherwise, there is NOT much to do.
Food and Dining	Iowa State needs to stop trying to be culturally diverse in the food area, because they do not know how to truly cook food the real way. Otherwise, the food is edible and decent.
Dorm Life	It's alright. Staff tries to have games and events, but let's admit, it's kind of lame. You have to know how to have fun or else you'll get bored.
Academic Rigor	Truly challenging, you must be on your top game in order to do well. If you're looking for easy classes where A's are given out, apply somewhere else. What I like about Iowa State is the faculty actually challenges you to learn the material.
Tips for prospective students	Study hard. Transitioning to college is hard already, but going to Iowa State is a whole 'nother level.
In three sentences	Although a really small town, it has great academic standings. Not as diverse as one could hope for, though. You'd definitely experience all four seasons here!

A.B

03/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are always police patrolling campus. Campus town can be somewhat sketchy at night with drunk people roaming in and out of bars, standing in alleyways, and yelling from their apartment balconies. The restaurants are nice in campus town, just visit them before nightfall.
Clubs and Activities	There are a lot of great clubs and activities. Possibly more than you might have time for, but many great ones to choose from nonetheless.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The zodiac is located in the north entrance of the Memorial Union. It is a common suspicion that if you step on the zodiac, you will fail your next test. Therefore, many students tend to walk around it.
Bang for the buck	Its cheaper than a private college but be prepared to pay a lot of random fees.
What to do for fun	There is plenty to do! You can see free movies on campus, bowl in the memorial union, plus every spring there are the VEISHA celebrations with live entertainment, and much more!
Food and Dining	The meal plans tend to be quite pricey. It is also difficult to get a seat during the lunch hour in most dining facilities.
Dorm Life	There are a lot of residence halls on campus including the fairly new Frederiksen Court Freddy apartments; which are pretty nice.
Academic Rigor	Some classes are a bit challenging than others depending on the content of the class and the professor's teaching style.
Tips for prospective students	Ask around or look up professors online before signing up to take their classes. If you are going into Secondary History Education, keep in mind that Iowa State does not currently offer the Social Sciences (grades 5-12) endorsement, which could effect your potential job opportunities post-graduation.
In three sentences	Overall Iowa State is a decent place to attend school. Do your research before you arrive. Send in paperwork extra early.

Lauren from Overland Park, KS

03/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	There is a clock tower that people like to kiss under that makes you an official student. I think its kind of weird.
What to do for fun	It is never hard to find something to do here. There are always plays, concerts, and activities going on.
Food and Dining	The food is great. I love eating here. Whenever my parents come to visit they never want to go to restaurants to eat because they want to eat in the dining halls.
Dorm Life	The dorms are very nice that I stay in. I feel very safe here. Alot of students like the dorms so much that they stay in them their entire time in college.
Academic Rigor	The teachers are very approachable, love talking to students, and alot of my teachers know me on a first-name-basis.
Tips for prospective students	Make sure you study hard and do not slack off your freshman year, it is important to have a strong start.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great college with friendly people everywhere. The school spirit is great, and so is the education, dining, living situations, and atmosphere. I love it here!

Mykenzie from Ames, IA

03/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

87 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Feel very safe on this campus.
Greek Life	Huge greek life. Really involved.
Clubs and Activities	A lot of clubs and activities. Pretty much a club for anyone.
Great for these types of students	Any student.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you kiss someone under the Campanile Clock Tower you are destined to be with them forever. There is a zodiac in the MU, if you step on it, you are expected to fail your next exam.
Bang for the buck	Out of state tuition is not terrible.
What to do for fun	Go to downtown Ames, Welch Ave. Jordan Creek mall in Des Moines (only 30 minutes away). Go out to eat, go to mall in Ames, go to a movie, walk around campus, get involved with greek!
Food and Dining	Awesome food! So much variety. Best dorm food out there!
Dorm Life	A lot of fun! So many great people to meet. Bathrooms could be nicer. Elevators breaking less often. AC in every dorm would help.
Academic Rigor	Classes are harder then high school and you have homework in them most of the time
Tips for prospective students	Get involved as much as possible. Be open to things out of your comfort zone. Try and meet as many people as possible.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a beautiful campus. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly. There are so many different clubs and activities to get involved with.

Dynasty from Chicago, IL

04/10/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	I hung out with my friends. I went to the gym, the mall, outlets malls (part of my friend's roadtrip), going to parties or bars, hanging out at a friend's house, etc!!
Food and Dining	I gained so much weight when I came home for visits. But the extra weight looked nice on me. I needed that!!
Dorm Life	I had a good time.. I had my own room. It would have been fun with a roommate though!!
Academic Rigor	I've learned so much from some of the smartest professors that I've ever known!! At Iowa State University, they make you feel like you're at a Harvard or Yale!!
Tips for prospective students	Be active Be open-minded Don't be afraid to meet new people Don't be afraid to try new and positive things Have fun Study hard Graduate on time
In three sentences	I rate them on being one of the top tier public schools in the nation. I rate them high on given former students second chances to come back and accomplish their goals. I rate the highly on the fact that they are a division 1, big 12 school that I can say that I was very proud to attend!!

Melissa from Superior, CO

04/14/2012

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

89 of 187

Categories	Comments
Clubs and Activities	Anything you can possibly think of is there: ranging from traditional sports clubs to strange ones such as Quiddich, from choirs to bands, from academic clubs to one's that are just for fun.
Bang for the buck	I was awarded many scholarships to attend ISU, which was extremely helpful for me. I believe the price of the college is phenomenally low for the quality of education I will receive there. SO many scholarships are available (need-based or exclusively merit-based) -- don't be afraid to search for these!
What to do for fun	I will admit that Ames doesn't have mountains or oceans for fun activities; however, the campus offers many fun activities (such as ISU After Dark, the recreation centers, bowling alleys, etc.). There's also plenty to do through exploring the creeks/rivers and many nearby parks.
Food and Dining	Love the food! My personal favorite: a stir fry/quesadilla bar. There are many healthy food options as well, which I think is very important.
Dorm Life	The two suites on campus, Martin and Eaton, are by far the nicest dorms. All others are still very nice, however not extremely new. I love their living and learning communities though! I would recommend joining one.
Academic Rigor	I have not yet attended ISU, so I'm unsure how difficult the academics are. I believe that it depends on your specific major; mine, engineering, seems to be a large program at ISU so I hope the classes are difficult!
Tips for prospective students	I would recommend visiting the campus. Hands down. Their campus visits are more than just a tour - you get to eat in one of the dining halls, tour campus, see residence halls, attend short talks on various programs (such as WISE and ROTC), and even talk one-on-one with an academic adviser for your major. I learned so much about ISU during my visit there. The campus is also worth seeing; Ames is a lovely town, and I love the convenient layout of the campus.
In three sentences	When I first applied, ISU was the last on my list. However, as I began researching it more and learning about their programs, I realized what a perfect fit for me it is. It is way more well-known for engineering (my major) than I had thought, and has excellent research facilities. Not to mention what a beautiful, quaint town Ames is!

Ashtan

04/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There is a Safe Ride system that you can call (as long as you have their number) from anywhere on campus that will drive you to where you need to be.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Every Cyclone (or future Cyclone) needs to know about the Zodiac. The Zodiac is a design on the floor of the entrance to the Memorial Union, and you should not step on it! Doing so will cause you fail your next test, and no one wants that! The tradition of the Campanile is such a lovey-dovey story: It's been said that you aren't a true Iowa Stater until you have been kissed under the campanile at midnight. Rumor has it that if you get hit by a CyRide you will get free tuition! For the last lovey-dove tradition: Taking a walk around Lake LaVerne with your beloved in complete silence will determine whether you are destined to be!
What to do for fun	There are so many things one can do at Iowa State for fun! You can simply take a walk and enjoy the beauty of campus, head out to central campus near the campanile and throw a Frisbee with friends, take a walk/jog in either of the gyms (State or Lied) or on the outdoor cross country course by the Towers dorms, take a CyRide bus to Duff Avenue and eat out, join a club or intramural sport (Quidditch anyone?), hang out in dorms and watch movies/play games, have a night out with friends on campus town where you can hit the party scene, go to sports events and cheer on the Cyclones, fish in Lake LaVerne, check out a play being performed at the theater... the list goes on.
Food and Dining	The food at Iowa State does not disappoint. There are many different places to dine, you can basically find a bite to eat at every corner. Having a meal plan will allow for you to have an easy means of paying for food, and Iowa States system of Dining Dollars that comes with every meal plan will also come in handy for buying snacks/drinks from cafes/hubs.
Dorm Life	Dorm life can be fun, but it can also have its downsides. Making friends with some people on your floor or even just in your building will help you in adjusting to college. I have found the hardest part of living in the dorms is having a room mate. I think that depending on the two people paired together, you could find your room mate a perfect match and the two of you instant friends, you can live with and respect them but not have much in common, or you could be annoyed by their presence and not agree with their lifestyle. I advise that you try to have an open mind and do your best to maintain peace within your room, and I think that with most situations rooming works out. However, if you absolutely cannot get along with a room mate, I would advise you find new living arrangements for the next semester.
Academic Rigor	High school does a really good job of preparing students for the work that needs to be put into college. For those who did not have to study in high school, there will most likely now have to be a little more effort on your part. You cannot put things off and pull through as easily in college. You have to know your abilities and what you need to take more time with.
Tips for prospective students	Students who are thinking about becoming a Cyclone should visit campus before making their decision. I suggest attending an organized campus visit where you will get to eat at a dining center for free! I also advise prospective students to think about some majors they have an interest in and find out whether or not Iowa State has a program for it. Also, do not worry if you cannot decide on a major just yet, anyone can start out as Undecided, Open Option, and go from there.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a beautiful campus with many students. You will meet lots of people and have the opportunity to get involved with many different groups. Remember to bundle up in the winter!

Hayle from Walford, IA

04/24/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Kissing under the Campanile at midnight!
What to do for fun	Bowling in the Union:)
Food and Dining	AWESOME FOOD
Dorm Life	Apply early for dorms, some were just built in 2004 and are AWESOME!
Academic Rigor	Needs a wider variety of majors.
Tips for prospective students	go visit!
In three sentences	The Campus is beautiful! The People are amazing! and the Food is great!

McKaila from Earlham, IA

05/01/2012

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

92 of 187

Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Not for sure. Haven't been there yet.
In three sentences	I have been on several campus visits and I am so excited to attend college at ISU!

Axel from Batavia, IL

05/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

93 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Live it up in campustown! Go out and meet people, chat it up and create friendships. Concerts are always available to attend, I saw O.A.R. my freshman year and I will never forget it!
Food and Dining	CDLC is fantastic! There are also many cafes located about the campus and the hours for each of them is more than reasonable.
Dorm Life	Can't truly say. Having never lived in the dorms myself, it would be unfair for me to weigh in on this topic.
Academic Rigor	You get out what you put into it. With dedication and passion every class can turn into a favorite. The professors are willing and want to see students succeed, and the classes are both entertaining and informational.
Tips for prospective students	Get involved! No matter what you are into there is something the University offers that fits you. Greek life is massive, clubs on clubs on clubs for you to join, and amazing leadership opportunities. The more time you spend sitting around the more time you waste to not making yourself a better person.
In three sentences	At first I was excited to come to school here for the opportunity to make good friends and experience life on my own. In four short years, I came to appreciate ISU for much more. I cannot believe that I will be walking out of Ames, Iowa with an amazing education and potential for my future.

Allen from Ames, IA

05/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Iowa State has a police staff on call and always looking to help, whether it be from getting your car started, needing a ride or to be walked late at night, they are there to help. Don't hesitate to call with any questions, that's what they're there for!
Great for these types of students	Anyone and everyone wanting to have fun, and enjoy a great learning experience. Active with clubs or sports this is the place to be!
What to do for fun	There's always something to do at Iowa State, varying from intramural sports, clubs and organizations or enjoying a show on campus. The University always has a guest speaker weekly from different authors or visits for candidates running for political parties. Whether your active or not there's something to do daily.
Food and Dining	The campus has 3 different cafeterias for students with the meal plans, and not including the various fast food or restaurants on campus in the Memorial Union or in campus town. There's something that everyone can enjoy within a walking distance anywhere from campus.
Dorm Life	Great experience for incoming freshman or someone from outside of the state. I would recommend this if you do not know anyone from the school area or would rather connect with fellow students to find roommates, and with the meal plan being required for undergraduates at certain dorms it's important to find what best matches your needs.
Academic Rigor	Depending on your major, you will have various amounts of home work and studying habits. With the campus being about average size it can be a little difficult at times to have a walk-in meeting with your instructor, but they do have their set office hours or a student teachers assistant to answer any questions with homework assignments. It's important to ask questions if the projects are misunderstood or too complex immediately, and not wait until the due date!
Tips for prospective students	If you're interested in Iowa State, don't hesitate to give the University a call. The faculties there to help, and only you can decide if this is the place for you. So give it a try or set up a tour before enrolling.
In three sentences	I would rate Iowa State University a 10 out of 10. The campus is not too large, and the instructors are there to teach. There's always something going on at the campus, and although there is not a lot of diversity, the University does it's best to have outside activities for minorities.

Jasmine from CEDAR RAPIDS, IA

05/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Sororities/Fraternities, large and small social and academic groups. Veishea! VEISHEA is an annual celebration held at Iowa State each spring, and one of its oldest traditions. It serves as a showcase and display of the Iowa State community with a wide variety of educational and entertainment events.
Food and Dining	You'll never find better dining halls than Iowa Stae's
Tips for prospective students	Iowa State is a school that you'll excellent education and have the best college years of your life.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is the top of the line school. Nice, clean friendly learning environment. Iowa State has an exceptional Engineering program. I couldn't imagine going anywhere else.

Jess

05/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Make sure you go campaniling before you graduate with that special someone! Enjoy all of the activities offered at VEISHEA in the spring.
What to do for fun	Take advantage of ISU Afterdark and the activities at the Memorial Union. Free movie nights are available.
Tips for prospective students	Try new things. Even if you are shy or nervous, get involved in clubs that you are interested in or clubs and groups within your major.
In three sentences	The campus is beautiful and the faculty are welcoming and helpful. I love the atmosphere. It is supplying me with the skills and tools I need to be successful.

Matt

05/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I have always felt very safe on campus.
Clubs and Activities	There are clubs for just about anything you want to do. We even have an event held twice a year called Clubfest in which students can take a look at all the clubs and talk to some club members.
What to do for fun	You can go to a wide variety of sporting events, concerts, join a club, or play drinki-...I mean video games with your friends.
Food and Dining	The food is decent but after awhile it does get a bit redundant because they usually have the same things week after week. That being said, there are quite a few places to choose from when deciding what kind of feed you want to chow on.
Dorm Life	I have enjoyed my dorm experience at Iowa State very much. I lived in one of the smaller and older dorms on campus and I made some close friends.
Academic Rigor	As with any college the academic rigor will vary depending on your major, but it's college...don't expect a cake walk.
Tips for prospective students	Work hard but have a good time and meet new people.
In three sentences	There are always new people to meet. It has a great centralized campus. We have very respectable programs, especially in engineering and agriculture.

Peter from Des Moines, IA

05/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

98 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Very responsive emergency vehicles. People are always running around on sidewalks, even women late at night, so I'd say this is a pretty safe campus. You could leave a computer out by a tree and come back maybe a day or two later and it'd still be there.
Greek Life	Very strong on this campus. Absolutely NO HAZING. There's been a long history of the greek system with ISU and if it's for you, you'll enjoy it.
Clubs and Activities	Go to the homepage and check them out for yourself. There's a whole page devoted to them on the university website and practically a day long convention for freshman to see what's really out there.
Great for these types of students	Engineering, agriculture, design, industrial technologies, and English.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Beardshear run...
Bang for the buck	Living in-state is fairly cheap. Not sure for out of staters but if you know how to live cheap then it can be a good money saver versus some of the other colleges around with this quality.
What to do for fun	Perfect Games by the interstate, the 1st floor of the MU (bowling alley and cheap movies), hanging out on campus or at one of the bars south of Lincoln Way or west of Hyland, or frisbee by the campanile.
Food and Dining	Never used the dining centers but Subway in the MU was always delicious and with two Hy-Vees, a Walmart and Target in town, it's hard not to find food.
Dorm Life	Never lived in the dorms. Going greek can save money with cheaper living, but going to the apartments can save you up to $30,000 by the time you graduate vs. living in the dorms.
Academic Rigor	The math department may be a bit lacking in academic support, but the tutoring program the university holds is superb and there's always an instructor or teaching assistant around to help. Besides that, most every program is well supported with very experienced professors and many opportunities for academic assistance no matter what you major in.
Tips for prospective students	Do your research. Email academic advisors and know where you want to go in life as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the faster the bills of college pile up with having to stay there too long.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a beautiful campus with a very natural and open appearance with ample fields of grass to play in and trees to lay under as well as many historical buildings filled with a wide variety of architecture to set each one apart. This is a great school for those looking to achieve a degree in engineering, agriculture, design, industrial technologies, and English. Iowa State is a constantly improving university with environmentally friendly trash cans and fuel efficient buses as well as having a great location for the night life and always having events going on throughout the year around campus, most important of all: VEISHEA!

David from Ames, IA

05/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

99 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Many clubs, groups, organizations, school activities are available to the student body. There's also the various businesses in the area that further aid the fun-factor. Never is an excuse of there's nothing to do here acceptable.
Food and Dining	Probably your average or slightly above-average dining experience.
Dorm Life	Personally I'm not a fan of dorm life, it's not my style.
Academic Rigor	If you aren't already; be willing to ask questions, engage in class discussions, and stay late if needed so you get the most of your education. Most professors are happy and eager to help students.
Tips for prospective students	Enjoy your college life, there is an enormous amount of school activities, groups, and other things to do while going to school. While studying should be your first priority don't get caught-up in it. Iowa State University is a very well-rounded school and there's literally almost something for everyone.
In three sentences	An adult-sized interactive playground. Coupled with a good educational process, Iowa State University meets the needs of students.

Shannon from Maquoketa, IA

06/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

100 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I have always felt safe here, campus is pretty compact and the ISU police will help you get where you're going if you don't feel safe walking alone.
What to do for fun	There are a lot of activities to get involved in as long as you're willing to look for them.
Food and Dining	Dining center food gets a bit repetitive but it is still pretty good.
Dorm Life	The people at ISU are great if you'll give them the chance to show you.
Academic Rigor	Some classes are quite difficult, but some are rather easy, it all depends on how hard you're willing to work.
Tips for prospective students	The teachers really care about your academic life and are willing to help with anything you're struggling with as long as you're willing to ask for their help.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a great place to learn and connect with people from all over. I absolutely love it there and have learned so much.

Jessica from Ames, IA

06/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus is very pretty and lit up well at night. If you are scared, walk along Lincoln way.
Clubs and Activities	They are fantastic, cheap and you meet many people!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	campeneiling (not sure how to spell it) is a tradition at ISU. The saying goes you are not officially an ISU student unless you kiss by the campeneil at midnight.
What to do for fun	I always joined up with friends and played football in the big fields of grass and I also joined many clubs to get me active and busy.
Food and Dining	The food is pretty good and usually varies every week; however, the centers do close fairly early.
Dorm Life	Most of the dorms are really nice and cozy. The learning communities are great to get into because then you will be living near people in your major, which is very helpful.
Academic Rigor	They challenge you and help you become the best you can be in your subject of interest.
Tips for prospective students	Become involved any of Iowa State's activities/clubs. There are so many to choose from and a fantastic way to meet friends.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a very good school to go to if you are interested in any Science or Engineering major. The teachers are always there when you need help and many opportunities for help if you are struggling. This college is tough at times; however, it is for the benefit of your future.

Mary from Morris, IL

06/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

102 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	THe campus is small enough to where you can walk from one end to the other in about 15min. There are cops that patrol in cars, safety escorts, and a car service you can call, its free to anywhere on campus.
Clubs and Activities	There are so many clubs you won't be able to keep track of them all. The hold two different club fests so you can visit booths and figure out which best fits your interests.
Great for these types of students	Great for everyone. I am a design student, but i know plenty of other students in engineering, sports, drama, animal science, ect.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	There is the bell tower called the Campanile and to become a true Iowa Stater you must kiss someone under the tower at the stroke of midnight.
Bang for the buck	There are art classes that you can take in your free time. Every weekend the student union plays a newly released movie for free with dollar popcorn, candy, and drinks.
What to do for fun	There are hundreds of clubs to join and free things to do. All you have to do is step out of the dorm.
Food and Dining	There are four dining centers. All of them have a few specialties; such as blue bunny ice cream, a cafe, grills, and make your own sandwich bar.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is great. You get to know neighbors really well. The only downside is that there are those few people that cause problems.
Academic Rigor	It all depends on what classes you take and how much effort you put forth into working on those classes. As long as you don't procrastinate you will do fine.
Tips for prospective students	Don't be afraid to ask questions and get out of your comfort zone. Make sure you know at least one person in each of your classes so you can contact them if you ever need anything. Also remember to eat healthy, Freshman 15 is a real problem.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a great place to meet new people and to have exciting, and new adventures. Students are friendly and are always helpful. Life at Iowa State is both relaxing and thrilling.

Katherine from New Sharon, IA

06/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Dorms are locked at certain hours and need keycards to get in. Campus security is very good and can come in a matter of minutes to your location
What to do for fun	Campustown has a ton of places to eat and go to on the weekends. Orange Leaf and Buffalo Wild Wings are popular for students.
Food and Dining	Dining centers are great but it's nice to get out of the campus and go eat downtown. Remember to use up your mealplan!
Dorm Life	Dorms are notoriously bad but these aren't bad at all! Bathrooms and hallways are cleaned daily, your room is up to you!
Academic Rigor	It's tough. Especially in classes where you have no interest, the dreaded gen ed classes aren't the most exciting but the specialized ones are great!
Tips for prospective students	Get out of your shell and be the person you want to become. Always remember to try your best and study a ton!
In three sentences	The campus is beautiful during all seasons. The classes are challenging and fascinating. There is always something to join or do on campus.

Anonymous

06/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	With over 800 clubs and numerous benefits, there is always something to do.
Tips for prospective students	Always go to class no matter what. Review your notes and study every night for at least an hour. Never take an opportunity for granted. Become involved with some type of club related to your major(s) and a club for fun.
In three sentences	It is an enjoyable and beautiful campus with numerous opportunities to get involved with some type of club. There is a wide range of major programs to choose from or have more than one major and/or a minor. Residential halls and clubs are a great way to meet new friends.

Deanna from Orange City, IA

06/09/2012

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

105 of 187

Categories	Comments
Bang for the buck	College is never affordable, but compared to other Iowa public universities, Iowa State is the cheapest.
What to do for fun	Everything.
Food and Dining	Don't even get me started. I love food. Iowa State has good food.
Dorm Life	I also can't contribute much here, but on my college visit, I stayed at a dorm with a friend that attended ISU. It may just be her floor, but everyone got along well and it was a blast!
Academic Rigor	I do not know for sure! I am attending in the fall.
Tips for prospective students	In high school, be the best you can be at everything you do. Your hard work will pay off-literally! Do not get overwhelmed by the school size. It really isn't that bad, especially because of the different colleges and departments that ISU has to make a huge school much smaller. Also, go with your gut. Do not worry too much about money, although it is a very important factor. Most importantly though, do not go to a school you hate just because it is the cheapest. Everything will work out.
In three sentences	Not only is Iowa State University absolutely beautiful, it is a wonderful place full of genuine people who are willing to help. There is a reason why so many people attend this university. It offers endless opportunities and has something for every individual.

Tyson from Salem, WI

06/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	The is really good, it is one of the reasons I chose Iowa State its just regular cafeteria food. Always constantly change the menu daily, ranging from steak to spaghetti! There are many options of dining areas on campus as well as off campus too.
Academic Rigor	As a design student, this is for those looking to get into the design program. Yes, the design program was extremely hard, long hours working on projects, and little sleep. Though in the end trying your hardest pays off. It is not when people say design majors have no social lives, because you meet many people who are going through the same thing as you are. The design building and everyone in it, professors, friends, the janitors that clean up at four in the morning, really like to help and see you achieve. Excellent atmosphere!
Tips for prospective students	Iowa State is a beautiful place, where you will take steps in a new direction, go with an open mind, and own it.

Sarah from Urbandale, IA

06/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are emergency phones every where on campus and there are buildings open 24 hours a day.
Great for these types of students	Those who love the large college size. In my opinion, during the semester you run into a number of people who run a similar schedule to you, so it can have a small campus feel.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Iowa State University has the largest student-run event in the country. VEISHEA is a tradition at ISU and it is a blast.
Bang for the buck	The in-state cost for ISU is very affordable.
What to do for fun	Join clubs, get involved in dorm activities, go to Carver for a movie night, get a late night snack at the C-Store, take a bus to the mall, or go to a football game.
Food and Dining	Seasons eating center is the best on campus. It's localized to all the dorms in that area and in my opinion, the best place to eat. I would even choose to eat there over going to a restaurant. Fantastic buffet.
Dorm Life	My experience with the dorms was not so great, so I suggest you talk to your new roommate a lot. Don't be afraid to get help from your CA if you are having trouble.
Academic Rigor	The classes can be hard depending on your major, but there are lots of classes you can take for fun as well.
Tips for prospective students	Find something to do. Go to ClubFest and join a club. It's a fantastic way to meet people.
In three sentences	ISU is a great place to grow and learn. With so many opportunities it is hard to find a better school with so much to do. You can make your experience at Iowa State University your own.

Stephanie from Saint Paul, MN

06/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Go to sporting events!!
Food and Dining	I typically went to the UDCC and I loved the variety and freshness of food there.
Dorm Life	I lived in Friley Hall my first year and I would not have changed it for anything!! It is a great location and the rooms are a decent size.
Academic Rigor	Always go to your professor's office hours because usually no one is there so you get undivided attention from your professor and they love helping you and it is a way that they will remember you.
Tips for prospective students	Go to Destination Iowa State!! It is an easy way to meet people in your class and possibly people on your floor or dorm and it is a good way to get yourself oriented with the campus.
In three sentences	Iowa State made me feel welcome the second I stepped on campus and I felt comfortable and safe being there so my rating would be a 10 out of 10. Their sporting events are tons of fun especially Cyclone Hockey and Cyclone football. Professors are also approachable and helpful.

April from Allen, TX

07/01/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA. BEST. WEEK. OF. YOUR. LIFE.
What to do for fun	exercise! take a hike or run or go play raquetball, volleyball, basketball or go swimming! :]
Food and Dining	the food in the UDCC is not too bad but kinda expensive all the same.
Dorm Life	loved the people in the dorm, and the rooms in friley arent too small.
Academic Rigor	sometimes you get hard professors to understand but all is good.
Tips for prospective students	use your advisors and current students as much as you can when trying to register for classes. Just listen to the people there, cause they know how to make the process and change over so much easier.
In three sentences	The campus is a lovely place to be. The traditions here are awesome. and the people are so athletic for the most part which is awesome.

Erica from Carolina, PR

07/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	This college is very safe. There are always police officers going around at night to keep tabs on activities and we have a system in which anyone can call at night to be picked up and driven by an escort to your place of destination (if you feel unsafe walking).
What to do for fun	The variety of clubs is incredible and there will surely be a club for your interests. The university hosts many activities such as a free student theater where you can watch unreleased movies and once a month there is a huge activity called MU After Dark where there are many activities to do with friends and its a lot of fun.
Food and Dining	Those freshman 15 are no lie, especially in Iowa Sate University. The dining centers have such a variety of food served in all you can eat style and it is very good. There are healthy options always available though and they cook up vegetarian items every day.
Dorm Life	As long as you research well, you will be able to find a dorm perfect for you. Dorms are kept clean and are spacious and usually feel like home. The bigger and better dorms are more pricey though, and smaller ones are much cheaper, but they are still all good.
Academic Rigor	The classes provide a challenge and you must study and develop your studying skills well. Professors will take into consideration a few excuses and if you have any questions, they certainly will answer you. Every class will have a reasonable amount of work, some more than others, but students have to take their time to actually do the assignments.
Tips for prospective students	An important thing to do if you go to this or any school is to check your email daily. With correct time management and setting of priorities, you will be able to do well in any college. Remember to keep a good balance between health, academics and fun and give your education your all.
In three sentences	ISU is a great university with a variety of students of different backgrounds. You will certainly feel at home and it's easy to find help when you feel lost or doubtful of your next steps. It provides many opportunities for us students and the professors are very approachable.

Amanda from Grand Junction, IA

07/03/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I interned at ISU during the Fall Term and would often have to leave the office well after dark. Day or night I never felt unsafe. There is a Help Van and Escort Service available as well for when you have car trouble or need walked to another building at night.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Don't step on the Zodiac in Memorial Union unless you want to fail your next exam.
Bang for the buck	ISU is very expensive, even with in-state tuition. But for the type of education you can receive, and what the fees cover I suppose its all worth it.
What to do for fun	Growing up in Iowa near the ISU campus, there is more to do around here than people think. Join a club or intramural event, explore the town. There is plenty that Ames and the surrounding community has to offer students.
Food and Dining	I haven't had to live off the dining halls yet, but after visiting numerous times and interning, the food court and little cafes are very enjoyable.
Academic Rigor	Classes are hard and you may feel overwhelmed, but its all well worth it.
Tips for prospective students	Keep an open mind! This is a university known across the globe and attracts students from every corner. You'll meet people and make friends you never thought you would have. Also, bring a pair of comfortable shoes.

Hanna from Florissant, MO

07/03/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

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Categories	Comments
Tips for prospective students	Consider Iowa State University
In three sentences	Iowas State is an amazing school with a variety of different majors and programs. It has a very strong science aspect perfect foer those planning on going into the medical field. Its a little pricey but its worth it.

Erika from Bettendorf, IA

07/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus has a great security system. There is the Cy Police and they are always willing to assist. There is not a lot of crime on campus, but I don't take anything for granted.
What to do for fun	I am currently enrolled in a summer program and we have planned events every weekend. It is great. There are water parks, BBQs, time to mingle and just enjoy life.
Food and Dining	The food is good especially the wings :).
Dorm Life	I am still new at the dorm life, but I enjoy it because it gives you an opportunity to meet people from different cultures, backgrounds and environments.
Academic Rigor	The courses are demanding but it can be accomplished with the right attitude. The faculty is great and willing to assist as much as possible.
Tips for prospective students	Come prepared, focused and ready to embark on an academic adventure.
In three sentences	I would rate the campus as 8 because it is so beautiful and gives you a feeling of security. The faculty and students are all nice and friendly. The campus is diverse and full of opportunity.

JP

07/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

114 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	On campus, there are strategically placed emergency phones for student safety. Additionally, the campus security staff responds very quickly to both emergency situations and if you have just locked yourself out of a building on campus.
What to do for fun	The best places for local fun depends on the season. In the middle of summer, Peterson Pits (a nearby park) and Saylorville Lake offer a reprieve from the heat. In contrast, during the winter, Seven Oaks offers the chance to go skiing and snowboarding.
Food and Dining	At Iowa State, there is a wide-range of food options, in and outside the dorms. Both the east and west-side dorms have in-dorm dining centers, meaning a filling meal is never out of reach. Additionally, there are many restaurants around Ames, offering a variety of different ethnic opportunities.
Dorm Life	In a word, patience is required for a successful dorm experience. At first, things can be stressful: a new roommate, a new place, a new schedule - it can be overwhelming. However, working through the initial stress can lead to a wonderful and supportive relationship with your roommate, who often becomes a lifelong friend.
Academic Rigor	It is important to set the bar high in terms of your academic standards. There are many grading options available at Iowa State University, making it easy to take additional coursework that you are interested in. Make use of auditing classes or the pass/fail option to take additional electives your are interested in.
Tips for prospective students	As an incoming freshman, it is crucial to have balance between your academic and personal lives. Try to get involved in a student activity related to your field of study and one completely disconnected. This helps you to meet with peers in and outside your academic circle as well as to discuss and broaden your interest in a variety of topics.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is an excellent technical school with access to state-of-the-art technology and industry-leading professionals. With one of a kind opportunities, students of Iowa State University are given an edge through student-defined research and extra-curricular activities. As an academic institution, Iowa State University offers students flexibility in designing their curriculum, allowing them to specialize in areas of their interest.

Morgan from Carpentersville, IL

07/14/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	The dining halls were great, very impressive. Not only are there ample options, but they post nutrition facts so you can make healthy choices. The halls had nearly every kind of fare and it tasted great as well!
Dorm Life	I loved the fact that freshmen can live in suite style dorms! All the residence halls are very clean and updated. Many of the dorms have a kitchenette or even a dining hall in the building. Also, there are many community spots to hang out with friends and study.
Academic Rigor	I do not think that this is a highly rigorous school but it is a high quality education because of the numerous computer labs, classrooms and libraries. The school has many amenities and plenty of student resources.
Tips for prospective students	If you visit the college, make sure you walk all around the campus and visit the buildings that you will most likely have classes in. Meet with the head of your major and current students to ask your questions. Visit numerous residence halls to see which you prefer and also, make sure to eat in the dining halls to see that you like the food.
In three sentences	The campus was gorgeous and perfect size for walking. The residence halls were good quality and clean. The staff members were extremely welcoming and willing to answer all my questions.

Corinne from Oskaloosa, IA

07/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	ISU is a very safe campus. There are many staff members and students that are there to assist you with anything you need. There are always staff members on call in case of emergency. Another thing that is offered is a free ride via the ISU Campus Safety car.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Campaniling is one of Iowa State's traditions. It is said that you are not truly lovers until you and your significant other have kissed under the campanile (clocktower on central campus) at exactly midnight.
What to do for fun	At ISU, there are many things to do. On weekends in the Memorial Union, you can bowl, catch a free movie, or participate in a workshop. During the fall, you can go to one of the famous Cyclone football games! Also, there are many clubs through the university that you can join.
Food and Dining	Seasons dining center is a great place to eat a meal. The convenience stores on campus are also a great way to pick up a quick snack in between classes.
Dorm Life	Living in the dorms is a great way to integrate yourself into the Iowa State experience. Personally, I loved living in Friley Hall!
Academic Rigor	ISU is a very science and technology oriented school. If you plan to be an engineer, this is the school for you. Beware of the difficult math courses.
Tips for prospective students	Living on campus during the first few years of your college experience is a great way to meet new friends, socialize, be involved in school activities, and to be aware of national and world topics.
In three sentences	Iowa State University has a beautiful campus. Iowa State University is full of diverse and unique students from all over the globe. Professors at Iowa State University are passionate about what they teach.

Alyssa from Waukee, IA

07/26/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	There are hundreds of clubs and organizations to keep you plenty busy. If a student organization is not your thing, there are also intramural sports and watching our sports teams compete with colleges across the country. It would be very difficult to become bored while at ISU.
Food and Dining	There are a tremendous amount of dinning options on campus. There are a couple dinning halls and several small cafes located directly on campus. If you want to escape from campus for a little while, there are restaurants available in Ames and Campustown as well.
Dorm Life	The dorm rooms are a standard size and can comfortably fit roomates. Both coed and gender specific options are available, as well as substance-free and air-conditioning options.
Academic Rigor	Iowa State University expects there students to challenge themselves with their classes, but allow themselves enough time to complete quality work. The amount of credit hours per semester varies from 12 to 18 on average.
Tips for prospective students	Make sure to explore the beautiful campus so you can discover the fastest way to get to your classes.

Austin from Ames, IA

08/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There is little to no crime on campus as well as there are strategically placed telephones to allow for help in case of an emergency. Plenty of police on the streets where the people accumulate on weekends, and security cameras are at the entrance of almost every building.
Greek Life	Voed most interactive greek community in 2010, and 2011 this is due to the large number of participants as well as the many opportunities for paired events with the option to lead if you have the talents to do so.
Clubs and Activities	If you have a hobby, well... theres a club for that! With so many choices it makes it too easy to meet people who enjoy doing the same things as you. Also club fest is hosted in the fall and spring giving students a chance to meet members on the board for these clubs to find out more before actually joining.
Great for these types of students	Iowa State would be great for you if you love to meet people quickly and have a sense of home feeling even when your at school. It is difficult coursework but I am sure if you are outgoing and determined not only will you find friends to help you through but if the faculty sees you are giving it everything you have then they as well will likely come to your aid.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The campanile is the center piece of the school which is a clock tower that stands 72 feet tall on central campus and can be seen from anywhere. Also, there is V.E.I.S.H.E.A which is the largest student run celebration which is hosted in April every year including: music, parades, entertainment, student faculty tournaments and much more!
Bang for the buck	Despite the fact I pay out of state tuition its engineering degree is a tough one to match. With amazing facilities and faculty you will end up paying more to live there than to go there!
What to do for fun	The city itself play host to lots of great music venues, as well as a conveniently located downtown for movies and food. The bar scene is where many of the student congregate on weekends which allows for any option of crazy or relaxed with almost a dozen different styles of bars on the same street.
Food and Dining	Dining centers at Iowa state accommodate and food preference and and amount of people. It is one of the best times of the day, every day when everyone meets at the dining centers to enjoy each others company and wide variety of food. In the centers they have every imaginable food that is rotated so you get many meals from many ethnicities.
Dorm Life	Splendid food, Superb location, Well involved. these are three phrases that are essential to becoming integrated into a foreign society where you are expected to function and eventually flourish.
Academic Rigor	Challenges you to complete many daily assignments, including attendance of class for best grades. Lots of lab and group work in engineering study that is weighted upon you participation within the groups which is then accounted for in accordance with you lab teams assignment scores.
Tips for prospective students	come prepared to learn but be challenged to manage time in comparison to high school. keep your eyes open and nose to the grindstone and you will make it through!
In three sentences	A family community with the size of a city, with opportunity to make oneself into a successful human being. Helping and understand, yet challenging curriculum to expand ones thinking inside and out of the box. Beautiful to the eye and the heart.

Isaac from Ames, IA

08/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Clubs and Activities	There are over 800 clubs. And they also have a club fest to showcase them
What to do for fun	There are sports, intermural sports (over 50), clubs, the underground, cy theatre, and many more group activities.
Food and Dining	Many resturants and three food halls all have awesome food.
Dorm Life	Plenty of space for everyone.
Academic Rigor	They have challenging classes but they also many learning comunities and study groups to help you if you are having troubles. There is also resitations for those who just can't figure it out by themselves.
Tips for prospective students	Make sure you take their assesments before orientation. It's not stressed as much as it should be. And don't be afraid to ask the advisor questions.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a very diverse school with many opportunities. It also has a rich and long history in academic acheivements, and technological break throughs. The thing I most like about the university is the excitement they have for their new students.

Mackenzie from Ames, IA

08/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State University is an expensive school for out of state students however the ability to go to a smaller school but still have the networking possibilities of the Big 12 is priceless. I don't think I could have gone to any other large school and be such an active member in so much different clubs and organizations. Scholarships are easy to apply for and there is always work available on campus.
What to do for fun	All sorts of clubs. One would not think of Iowa as being the state where there'd be so much going on but actually there is ALWAYS something going on even if it's snowing.
Tips for prospective students	GO TO CLUB FEST! It's a festival that is helps you find clubs that are unique for YOU. My favorite part about being a freshman was living in the dorms and having the easy ability of meeting new people.
In three sentences	Beautiful campus. Easy to meet new people through different events, clubs, and organizations. The atmosphere is all generated by the college life that embraced by the small town of Ames.

Jacqueline from Ames, IA

08/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Iowa State University has its own law enforcement. There are stands set up around campus with a button to press if you feel unsafe, if you need help or if you would like an escort across campus. Press the button and a police officer will be there in less than 3 minutes.
Greek Life	There are 55 chapters at ISU that allow students to be involved in their community, be given a chance for leadership roles and raise money for their house charity. The Greek Community has a no tolerance policy with hazing and is punishable by law.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Campaniling: The campanile is a large bell tower in the middle of the campus whose bells chime daily and tradition states that a student officially becomes an Iowa Stater when kissed under the campanile as the carillon tolls midnight. This tradition is called 'campaniling.'
What to do for fun	ISU has over 800 clubs to be involved in that range from academic to sports, to video games to a Parkour club. You can catch a free movie in Carver 101 or check out the Student Union Board and Student Activities Center Online for free shows and events. There are many events that go on everyday at ISU that are fun and that are alcohol free.
Food and Dining	ISU has 4 main dining centers, 3 restaurants, 10 cafes and 3 convenient stores. The campus provides a wide variety of choices that fit your need such as pasta, salad bars and picking up a quick cup of coffee from a local cafe on campus.
Dorm Life	Dorm Life is what you make of it. It is not 5 star living, it is a place to stay. But the dorm community does have great involvement with the students such as Floor Cabinet and Game nights.
Academic Rigor	Iowa State University has over 100 majors. Some of the most creditable like the college of Veterinary medicine, the college of engineering and 1 out of the 13 fashion merchandising program in the U.S. The professors here have years of experience in their field of study such as Dan Shechtman, Iowa State professor of materials science and engineering, a research scientist for the Ames Laboratory and the Philip Tobias Professor of Materials Science at the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, who has recently won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Tips for prospective students	Iowa State University has a spot for everyone. It has 100 majors and over 800 clubs for students to be involved in. It feels like a family atmosphere.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is ideal for any person. It is beautiful campus, great place to study and the right place to start your journey. There is a path for everyone here at Iowa State University.

Andy from Barrington, IL

08/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	You're safe man. No worries.
Greek Life	A whole lotta sororities, and some frats. All off campus.
Clubs and Activities	Roughly a billion clubs and intramurals
Great for these types of students	Serious about education, but obviously looking for a good time.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	You can't walk across the zodiac (a spot on the floor of one of the buildings) You have to kiss your lover under the clock tower at midnight, and streak across the quad
Bang for the buck	Pretty cheap for an out of state school, and they give plenty of money.
What to do for fun	There are SO many clubs. Join one.
Food and Dining	Gotta love the campus food.
Dorm Life	The buildings are great, except for the no A/C.
Academic Rigor	You're gonna learn your stuff, but the professors help a lot if you need it.
Tips for prospective students	Have decent grades and a solid ACT.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a ton of clubs, great people, and nice buildings. I haven't met or heard about a professor that people don't like. I can't believe how nice people are here.

Nicholas from McHenry, IL

08/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I feel very safe on campus. Security is always around and also available if you should need a ride back to your dorm when you are out late or at one of the buildings working.
Clubs and Activities	There are hundreds of clubs and intramurals to get involved in. You will have no problem finding others with the same interests.
Great for these types of students	All types of students will feel comfortable at ISU. There is so much to do and so many people, you will find it easy to find your way.
Bang for the buck	College is expensive, we all know that, but it is an investment in your future. The financial plans are out there but you have to make an effort to work out what is best for you and your family.
What to do for fun	There is alot to do around campus but my favorite has to be the New State Gym. State of the art equipment, a rock climbing wall and a pool like no other. It is also conveniently located right across the street from my dorm so I like to visit as often as possible!
Food and Dining	Wonderful! The food on campus is amazing. Not only do we have the regular cafeterias but there is also a Panda Express and a Subway at the Union and our food plan is good there.
Dorm Life	I am very lucky to be in a newer dorm with a great roommate. It is of course different from home but in a good way. Learning to get along with many different people and appreciating our differences.
Academic Rigor	With my focus on Architecture Iowa State was a perfect fit. They offer so many majors and have small schools within a large university. I like this part of my schedule, that I get to actually spend time at the School of Design my first year of college.
Tips for prospective students	Look into more than one school! There is a school out there for everyone and don't just settle. Make sure you can see yourself living there for the next 4-6 years.
In three sentences	The beautiful campus of Iowa State is the first thing to capture your interest. As you make your way around the campus you will notice how much they have to offer. It only gets better from there!

Luke from Ames, IA

09/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Never had a single issue with safety on campus.
Greek Life	The Greek life is amazing. So proud to be greek and a proud 4 year member of a fraternity.
What to do for fun	Intramurals, attend sporting events, play sports on central campus, and join clubs.
Academic Rigor	Challenging but enlightening courses where you learn a lot
Tips for prospective students	Work hard, go greek, and get involved. Be proactive and don't let opportunities for fun and development personally and academically pass you by.
In three sentences	An amazing environment set on a beautiful campus. Awesome extra curricular activities, and academic opportunities. High academic prestige, coupled with amazing social life and friendships, as well as great athletic atmosphere and sports teams.

Ashley from Ames, IA

09/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are numbers you can call if you want a ride back to your room at night or you can call and have someone walk back with you so your not by yourself.
Clubs and Activities	Almost any club you want and if there isn't one but you want it, start ir yourself.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you kiss your boyfriend/girlfriend under the Campanile at midnight it is true love. If you step on the Zodiac in the Memorial Union, you will fail your next test.
What to do for fun	Intramurals or clubs always have you busy, or just hanging out with friends.
Food and Dining	Many different places to eat and all are great with a wide variety of selections.
Dorm Life	Lots of different activities to do with the people on your floor or with your whole building like a competion night.
Academic Rigor	Lots of great places to study and many opportunites to get tutoring or help on homework or a class.
Tips for prospective students	Study hard and often. Going to class is super important.
In three sentences	Beautiful campus. Very nice people. Great learning atmosphere.

Allison from Ames, IA

09/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	Important here, but not everyone does it. You make the experience what you want it to be.
Clubs and Activities	Way too much for the average person to list!
What to do for fun	Movie nights every weekend, always a school sponsored event and often greek life is a party.
Food and Dining	Lots of variety, fresh fruits and always a good desert.
Dorm Life	Varies from place to place, community involvement depends on size and location.
Academic Rigor	You make it as rigorous as you want depending on how you fill your schedule
Tips for prospective students	Get involved! Even the smallest club will add a great amount of enjoyment to your time here.
In three sentences	Great atmosphere, never a dull moment. Definitely a niche for everyone. Campus is beautiful, food is delicious.

Caitlynn from Garland, TX

09/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The only time I would ever think about being unsafe on campus would be after midnight and before about 5 if I'm walking on central campus where it's not lit or a few unlit roads around there. However, there's plenty of routes around that, having a bike makes it better, and if you're smart you're not going to be out at that time anyways.
Clubs and Activities	A big advertisement for ISU is that they have over 800 clubs and organizations. There's really much less that are actually active and have members, but there's still a lot, and something for everyone.
Great for these types of students	People who are really into agriculture, engineering, and design. It;s also good for biology/ecology and other science, especially if you want to study abroad. This school is amazing at giving the students plenty of study abroad options and help every step of the way getting there.
Bang for the buck	I'm out of state so this is a little pricey but compared to other out of state prices for other schools this one's pretty good. For me but especially for someone from Iowa, this is a great value. Financial aid also is pretty easy to come by and deal with, even for someone like me who never seems to be able to find scholarships that apply to me fr various reasons.
What to do for fun	There's really something for everyone. I like dancing and I've tried a different type every semester and still haven't gotten through all my options. There's a lot of events going on all the time, especially shows at Stephen's Auditorium and everything from lectures to multicultural shows to hypnotists at the MU. Another thing I like to do is generally be active riding my bike, doing yoga, playing tennis, and recently we got a new gym with an amazing pool so that's always great!
Food and Dining	I hardly ever eat food on campus anymore, but when I did it was good. Since I stopped eating on campus, however, I realized how much better it can be if I make my own food which is the only reason I gave it 2 stars.
Dorm Life	I was only in the dorms for one year and it was fine, but not really for me. There are dorms here for every type of person, so you'll be happy. I just personally like my apartment much better.
Academic Rigor	In my experience the academics are as hard as you make them. I've gotten through classes with good grades and barely any work but the content didn't stick so well. I can spend all my free time studying and do great, but that does make it hard, so you just have to find a balance.
Tips for prospective students	There are so many different types of opportunities here, but you have to search them out. Go outside your comfort zone and try multiple, different, new things. Learn your way around campus and around the city, if you have a bike you almost never have to use the bus. From the beginning, keep track of what classes/credits you'll need so you don't end up with surprises in the form of needing extra semesters later on. Look into study abroad, there's something for everyone!
In three sentences	ISU is a bubble of more diversity than there seems in the middle of nowhere. For me, it's a base to get a degree and learn how to live on my own while I figure out where I want to go from here. It's actually quite beautiful here and there's plenty to do if you search for it, but it's not the kind of place I would want to live longer than I have to for college.

Caitlyn from Johnston, IA

09/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety	The Help Van will pick you up wherever you may be on campus after simply calling them to tell them where you are. There are also emergency buttons throughout campus that will alert someone if you are in trouble, as well as an excellent texting system to automatically alert students of any dangerous situations on campus.
Greek Life	Greek Life is a big deal at Iowa State. While I personally am not a part of it, I know a ton of people who have loved their experiences within the Greek Community. There are constantly events being held on campus by sororities and fraternities that make them known to the rest of the campus.
Clubs and Activities	There is literally a club for everyone! Iowa State does a great job of making these clubs known by hosting a well-advertised club fest at the beginning of each semester. You can go and check out every club that ISU has to offer and find one that fits you perfectly!
What to do for fun	There is always something to do in Ames! Iowa State does a great job of providing free entertainment like movie-theater style movies or cheap concerts in the Memorial Union. People can always be seen playing frisbee on Central Campus and you can't forget all of the awesome sporting events.
Food and Dining	No matter where you are on campus, you can always find a convenience store, dining center or cafe! You will never go hungry whether you're spending a late night in the library or need a quick breakfast or snack during the day. Not only is it convenient, but the food is pretty good for college food!
Dorm Life	The dorms are always full of energy! It is so easy to make friends with people in the residence halls because of all the activities that the housing department sets up for it's students.
Academic Rigor	I have felt challenged in every class I have had during my time at Iowa State. Whether it is memorizing theories for classes or thinking critically about a topic I have never been exposed to, the course work has helped me grow into a more educated and well-rounded student.
Tips for prospective students	Don't rush into a major! Explore all of your options by taking a variety of classes. You never know what you'll find!
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great school for students looking for academic excellence as well as multiple opportunities for clubs and athletics. The professors are passionate about their material and are interested in the success of their students. Iowa State University is a beautiful campus all year round.

Cody from Greenfield, IA

10/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun	The dorms each have activities planned each week and there are so many clubs to choose from to participate. If you want to be busy there is always something to do but if you want to have quiet time to yourself there is always a quiet space too. I have met so many people and love my experience so far.
Food and Dining	At first it was hard to schedule lunch around my class schedule, but I have managed to find alternatives. The food selections offered in the dining halls is great and I have never been hungry for lack of variety. There are several locations around campus to pick from which is very helpful as well.
Dorm Life	I currently live in a suit dorm room. I have three roommates and have a living area and our own bathroom. We have all gotten along great and I feel as if I'm living with my best friends.
Academic Rigor	I was fortunate in having already completed some of the elective courses during high school so I have more opportunity to explore other courses during college. The courses I have chosen my first semester have been challenging but most are in smaller group settings, rather than in the large lecture halls. This is a major advantage in helping understand the material and have greater class discussions.
Tips for prospective students	I advise prospective students to try to narrow down the area you want to study and talk with the advisor in that area before making the deicsion to attend. I gained so much more knowledge about the area from talking with the advisor compared to just reading the brochures.
In three sentences	I have had a great first semester at Iowa State University. The instructors and advisors are very helpful. I have made great friends and feel like I am at home here.

Megan from Plymouth, MN

10/26/2012

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

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What to do for fun	There are lots of clubs to join and there is a mall that is just a busride away!
Food and Dining	Very good food!!!
Dorm Life	There are a ton of dorms to choose from, have a system called housing to create smaller communities within a large dorm hall.
Academic Rigor	Has some great engineering programs
Tips for prospective students	It is in the small town of Ames, so don't expect a big city atmosphere.
In three sentences	Really pretty campus, has great engineering programs.

Kendal from Plymouth, MN

10/26/2012

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

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What to do for fun	There are A LOT of clubs that are available at Iowa State.
Food and Dining	The food was great. There were many different options. They is more than one dining hall, so it wasn't too crowded.
Dorm Life	There are lots of dorms and many different kinds of them. There are also things called learning communities on some of the floors in some residence halls.
Academic Rigor	Iowa State is a great school if you are planning on majoring in anything engineering.
Tips for prospective students	The campus has a small town feel, but not too small town. The campus is pretty large and spread out though, but it isn't hard to get around.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a gorgeous campus. Everyone seems so friendly and the atmosphere is very comfortable.

Kristin from Cedar Rapids, IA

10/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck	If you have the time, you can find so many free or cheap opportunities to entertain yourself at school to make the high price of tuition worth it.
What to do for fun	When you find time for fun you can always find free, safe activities.
Food and Dining	Nothing beats a home cooked meal, but the food here isn't the worst.
Dorm Life	It's not as easy as it sounds having a roommate, but it has it's rewards.
Academic Rigor	The work is tough, but if it was easy then everyone would do it.
Tips for prospective students	Friends come and go but school is what should come first.
In three sentences	I think Iowa State University is a great school. You couldn't get a more beautiful campus, and more dedicated professors. If anyone asked for my opinion on where they should go I would definitely say Iowa State.

Danielle from Ames, IA

11/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Clubs and Activities	The SALT Company is an awesome college group through Cornerstone Church that has kept me sane during school.
Tips for prospective students	Visit the campus before you come! It makes your decision so much easier when you know where you are going to live!
In three sentences	Iowa State has a beautiful campus all year round. The community, people and faculty are amazing and make Iowa State feel like home. The courses are challenging but are fun and rewarding and allow the students to learn and grow.

Cedar Rapids, IA

11/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck	Being in state, it is still expensive.
Dorm Life	The towers aren't the greatest place to live.
Tips for prospective students	Study a lot.
In three sentences	I really enjoy the campus. The classes are good and the professors actually try to help you out. My advisor has helped me out a lot as well.

Meridith from Dubuque, IA

11/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety	There's help vans around, very well lit, and there's usually always people out.
Greek Life	Greek life is fun, it's not for me exactly, but i have a lot of friends who really enjoy it!
Clubs and Activities	So many options. There's something to meet everyone's interest.
Great for these types of students	ISU is great for hard working, fun-loving students. There's something for everyone here!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Some of the traditions on campus is kissing underneath the Campanile at midnight, seeing the swans in the lake right by Memorial Union, Never walking over the seal in memorial union. Some of my favorite spots as ISU are on the stairs at Bearshired Hall, and my study spot in the library in the resource room.
Bang for the buck	It's worth the money to come to a big university. It's one of the best experiences of my life. I never want to leave!
What to do for fun	For fun I often go out with friends, go to the provided ISU After Dark specials, movies, and I'm in a few clubs.
Food and Dining	Lots of options!
Dorm Life	Love my dorm, my room mate, and floor mates. The only bad thing about dorm life is sharing a shower!
Academic Rigor	Classes are challenging, but there's so much help available!
Tips for prospective students	Come to campus, as soon as you get here you will be drawn in to everything Iowa State has to offer. Go to a game, you will see how fun Iowa state is!
In three sentences	Best college experience ever. So many options of things to do ranging from clubs, to work experience and more! There is so much help available, it's almost impossible to fail!

Jackie from West Branch, IA

11/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun	Campustown is a lot of fun, that is where i spend the majority of my time. Otherwise there are study rooms throughout each dorm and you can watch movies with your friends or have a study group. In one of the school buildings they have movie nights from thursday till sunday free for students and they provide a good selection. The MU after dark is underneath the Memorial Union and there are video games, bowling, pool etc. Throughout the floors in the dorms there are cabinet members that for social events for the students that live there!
Food and Dining	I live right next to the dining center, the food is pretty good compared to other colleges i have visited. It is very clean and there are several places around you can eat. The only down side is the weekend schedule that they are open.
Dorm Life	I chose to go the cheap route and have a dorm without air conditioning. The temperature fluctuates quite a bit but you get to know everyone very well. The dorms in Friley are the best in my opinion although I do not live there
Academic Rigor	There is always help available to you through your advisor, peer mentor, student services, online study help, supplemental instruction, tutors, and much more! Every major is different but if you are having trouble with your grades there is always somewhere to turn to.
Tips for prospective students	Consider Iowa State University! Taking a campus tour will really give you a great idea of how the campus really works.
In three sentences	The amount of resources available to students is phenomenal. Classes are small enough where you can get to know your professors/TA's as well as get the help you need. The campus is easy to get around and the buses are free to students throughout Ames.

Hayley from Shoreview, MN

11/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	I am not a part of Greek Life but it is fun to watch them here on campus. They put on many activities such as philanthropies, parties, shows such as Yell like Hell and Lip Sync (two Iowa State traditions) held during VEISHEA and Homecoming. Everyone seems to love it, even outsiders.
Great for these types of students	Students that can handle staying busy and on top of their school work. There is so much Iowa State has to offer it's community that it is hard to say no. Students must learn to balance fun and school, but it is very possible, because all of us here pick it up quickly. Motivation is key!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Everyone's favorite tradition on campus is VEISHEA. VEISHEA is a week long event that holds many traditions. It was started in the 1800's as a festival representing all the majors. It continues to this day to be a festival, a week full of cherry pies (tradition), kissing under the campanile with your loved one (tradition), honoring our favorite campus animals (our swans), concerts, games, late night events, and many other activities through out campus. It is Iowa State's favorite time of the year!
What to do for fun	Football Games! Reimann Gardens, Food in town, campustown, exploring the campus, clubs, activities offered by the university, intramurals, work-out centers, rock climbing wall, Lake Aida Hayden, basketball games, tailgaiting, concerts, Dance marathon... the list never ends!
Tips for prospective students	Apply early! The freshman class the past two years have been the biggest Iowa State has ever had. The school is growing and eventually it will have to start making cuts. Also, apply for many scholarships because it is a bit expensive if you are out of state.
In three sentences	Iowa State has the most beautiful campus, during every season. The food here is not something you would find in a lunch room, they offer great cafes and dining centers. All other amenities offered and the people that are offer them are so great and friendly.

Kristin from Urbandale, IA

11/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety	The campus is very safe and if someone has to walk home at night and does not feel safe to walk across campus alone the school police department has a solution of providing safety escorts to walk or drive you back to your dorm.
What to do for fun	Hang out with friends and the usual weekend shenanigans.
Food and Dining	Some of the food is expected to be terrible and in some cases it is but overall the food is fairly decent and after not eating at the dining centers anymore you will find yourself starting to actually miss some of the stuff offered there.
Dorm Life	I suggest to everyone to live in the dorms at least one year, usually freshman year. It is a fun environment when you get to know the people you live around especially if you get along with them.
Academic Rigor	Some classes are challenging but not in a bad way. Then there are also the classes that would be considered an easy A.
Tips for prospective students	Live in the dorms freshman year! You will meet a lot of people that will be by your side the rest of your college career. This also helps for when you get to the step of living off campus as perspective roommates.
In three sentences	Iowa State University has a very beautiful campus and campus buildings which creates for a nice environment to study around. The teachers are all knowledgable in their material and show their passion for the subjects. There is a wide variety of classes and majors that would suit basically anybody.

Courtney from Ankeny, IA

11/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Fairly good
Clubs and Activities	Tons and tons of clubs for students to partake it! The Criminal Justice Club is awesome!
Great for these types of students	Anyone would love being on Iowa States campus. Everyone welcomes everyone
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Student sections cheers; Campaniling (you're a true Iowa State if you kiss your partner at midnight at the Campanile)
Bang for the buck	Its worth it.
What to do for fun	Hang with friends, attend the colleges sporting events
Food and Dining	There is a wide variety of dining options on campus. It allows you to change up what you have everyday so you don't eat the same stuff every week. Overall its good.
Dorm Life	Live in the dorms freshman year. Freshman year is a big deal in meeting new friends and establishing life long friendships. The dorms overall a fairly nice; especially when you get into a new building.
Academic Rigor	Every major has a different amount of coursework but they all are fair in making it challenging but not to challenging that you can't get the homework done. Teachers are always there to help students.
Tips for prospective students	If you know you will struggle in a class, get a tutor right away. They help tremendously.
In three sentences	Iowa state has a very nice campus that is easy to navigate around to find classes or meet with teachers and other students. The teachers are very knowledgeable of their teachings. Basically everyone is nice, friendly, and respectful of others.

Ashley from Rogers, MN

11/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	I wouldn't know, sadly this is the only part of the Iowa State Community that I haven't really got connected with
Clubs and Activities	There is so much to do and get involved in on Iowa State Campus, there is literally over 500 student run clubs!
Great for these types of students	Everyone, the campus is quite diverse.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Campanile is a trademark of Iowa State, it is said that if you kiss under the bell tower as the Clock strikes midnight you've become an official Iowa Stater
Bang for the buck	I would say that Iowa State University is defiantly worth it's weight in gold, maybe I'm biased as I've never studied at another college but I've found that I've enjoyed my time here so far and learned a lot in the process.
What to do for fun	There is so much to do it's hard to sum it all up, but I will say that no mater what your interests are you'll find something you'll love to do.
Food and Dining	Food on campus is actually pretty good.
Dorm Life	Dorm Life, although it takes a little getting use to, is an amazing experience. Defiantly live in the dorms for at least one year.
Academic Rigor	Academics are an important part of being in college, and it's portrayed threw out everything we do.
Tips for prospective students	Don't Fall Behind in Classes, it's hard to catch up
In three sentences	It's Pretty Awesome

Jennifer from Nevada, IA

11/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	If it is dark or late at night, make sure you walk on lighted paths and busier paths and try to walk with a partner. It sounds juvenile but seriously, crazy things happen on campus and you do not want to be a victim of something like that. Be smart about who you hang out with and keep tabs on your friends as well as have friends that will keep tabs on you.
Greek Life	I am not in the Greek Live, however many students are and I know it is quite a time commitment, but you also meet many people and there are numerous exciting events. If you want a close community in a larger college, going Greek can definitely help you out.
Clubs and Activities	I am currently in Navegators, which is a Christian college ministry in the midwest, I have learned so much more about myself and God, it's impacted me and helped me so much already. I am also an ISU hockey cheerleader and have enjoyed supporting the team as they battle it out on the ice!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The most used tradition is not to walk on the Zodiac in the Memorial Union, which is ISU's main campus building. Supposedly if you walk on it, you will fail your next exam. Due to this, every student you see enter through the doors make an arc around the floor's Zodiac to avoid the bad luck.
Bang for the buck	Shop sales when you need something, and do not spend money on things that you do not need or will not get much use out of. It was hard for me to see the first payment of my university bill drain all of my savings that I had been working at my whole life, but the little things do add up when you save and use your money wisely.
What to do for fun	I am not into drinking and partying, and thankfully I have found a group of friends who feel that same way! On our weekends we have movie nights, play glow in the dark ultimate frisbee, or soccer in the hallways. Iowa State also has an event called After Dark which is available I believe once a month and they have numerous neat speakers, karaoke, free bowling and pool, etc. so we hang out there some times as well.
Food and Dining	Students here are served buffet-style and because I live in the dorms I am required to have a meal plan. Most of the time, the food is tasty, my personal favorite is their BBQ ribs and asparagus, however their pizza is always delicious as well! The most negative thing about their food a dining is that the dessert bar is always open; I have had to learn self-control, because it is all too easy to quickly walk by and make a self-serve ice cream sundae!
Dorm Life	While it is expensive, crowded, and old, through the dorm life, I have met a great group of friends. It's been very nice finding this group of girls because since we live on the same floor, we can see and talk with each other whenever we are home. I live near a variety of all types of people in the dorm and it has taught me to be flexible and patient when things do not always go how I would like them to in my living space.
Academic Rigor	Classes are tough at Iowa State. I was a good student in high school, but that was nothing compared to college. Here there is a lot of work involved, but at the same time you are taking classes that are mainly areas of interest for you, so while it is much greater work, it is also easier to do because if it is what you like, you feel more driven to complete and understand the information.
Tips for prospective students	If you do not know what you want to major in, do not panic, take classes from all of your interests and you should find out pretty quickly what you like and do not like. Make sure to save time to exercise and eat right, get enough sleep, a healthy body makes college so much smoother! Lastly, if you do not understand something, ask your professor, even if it is a lecture-hall class, they will gladly help you.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great college and is located on a beautiful campus! I debated whether or not to go there or keep looking for other colleges, however I decided on Iowa State and I have not been disappointed by my decision once yet. It's taught me so many useful skills not just from the classroom but living on my own and being independent and reliable by myself--skills that I feel are very necessary for a future career and successes!

Colleen from Ames, IA

11/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are plenty of safety precautions that are taken on campus. Campus police are always near by, and there is a HELP Van service that will give students rides or jump cars for students who are on campus.
Greek Life	There are plenty of fraternities and sororities, but I'm not a part of the Greek community at Iowa State, so I can't say much more about it.
Clubs and Activities	There are hundreds of clubs at ISU, and a lot of them are specific to certain colleges and majors, making it easy to meet people with the same academic interests as yourself.
Great for these types of students	It's a good option for pretty much any kind of student. There is something for everyone.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA is kind of the big thing every year that everyone participates in, and it's all done right in the middle of campus. There's also the Campanile in central campus, and every day during the semester at noon, they play a song with the bells in the tower.
Bang for the buck	I feel like I am getting what I pay for as far as my education is concerned, but I find that living on campus is much more expensive than it should be, and that's why I personally choose to live in an apartment elsewhere.
What to do for fun	Welch Avenue is a street right in campus town, and it is located right off of campus. There are tons of little restaurants and bars, so there is always something to do within walking distance of campus.
Food and Dining	The food and dining here are excellent. There are plenty of choices, and there are cafes and dining centers throughout campus, so there is always some place nearby. I love the Caribou Coffee on campus.
Dorm Life	It's impossible for me to really rate the dorm life accurately, as I have always lived off-campus, but from what I've heard of it, students seem to enjoy the campus life, and there are a lot of amenities for those who do live in the dorms.
Academic Rigor	The teachers here ask for a lot, but it is nothing impossible or unheard of. It encourages students to push themselves and try their best, and it can be very good preparation for the real world after college.
Tips for prospective students	Get to know your advisor. They can be a great resource for you. Also, try to get to know your professors, too. They're more helpful when they personally know a student.
In three sentences	The professors are very personable and seem to care about students. There are a lot of resources for students needing help with academics. There are several great places to eat or grab a snack.

Samantha
11/25/2012
Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

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Categories Comments

In three sentences
Beautiful Campus. Can't wait to go here.

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Ryan from Johnston, IA

11/25/2012

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

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Security posts everywhere, Ames isn't quite what one would call the ghetto; in fact quite the opposite.
Clubs and Activities	Plenty of activities; personally I'm planning on seeing what lacrosse is all about, doing martial arts, and checking out the hoolah hooping club.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Something called VEISHA, apparently students have events on campus. It is usually a time for clubs to do a demo or presentation.
Bang for the buck	Great for if you are in-state, not so great if you are out of state. The max automatic merit scholarship ($7000 over 4 years) is small compared to private colleges but that pattern is probably observed when comparing private to public anyway.
Food and Dining	Three dining halls across campus; restaurants like Hickory Park are nearby.
Dorm Life	If you are planning to go there and care about where you will be living make sure you take a visit and remember the halls that are newly built or refurbished. If you can't stand a dorm room with AC you may get stuck in one if you don't reserve early enough or don't reserve with that knowledge.

Ethan from Ames, IA

11/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun	Ames is a great place. There is the main strip with bars and clubs as well as great places to eat. Also, Des Moines is not far off if you need a transportation hub or other things to do.
Food and Dining	Iowa State has an incredible set of dining halls. They take recycling and food allergies very seriously and have great programs that address both.
Dorm Life	Dorm life for a year was one of the best experiences of my life; definitely a must for every college student.
Academic Rigor	The classes will challenge you, but not to the point of frustration. Put your best effort in and you will go far.
Tips for prospective students	Live in the dorms your freshman year! It will be a great, necessary experience that will help you to make friends your freshman year.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a phenomenal college that has something for every student. The campus is gorgeous and the architecture is beautiful. Professors care about the success of the student.

Nicholas from Indianola, IA

12/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	There are definitely stereotypes of college students and fun that happen on campus. There will be those that drink and those that get into video games but there are also a lot of organizations to get involved in. There are a few hundred clubs so there definitely will be something you enjoy. Could be skydiving, swing dancing, church clubs, clubs in your major, anything! There are definitely a lot of ways to have fun here!
Food and Dining	The dining centers on campus are great for the most part! Of course there will be food items that you hate but more that you liked. Also the hours of operation are pretty good and there are alternatives for once the dining centers close.
Dorm Life	I've only ever lived in the dorms because of how awesome they are. I've been involved in student government since I got here (social chair, house president, building social chair, hopefully a CA (RA) position. Depending on the style of dorm that you live in you will have opportunities to meet a lot of people. In suite style dorms there isn't as much of a social aspect because they have their bathroom in their room and never have to leave.
Academic Rigor	The classes can be hard if you're not putting forth the effort you need but they can also be easy if you study and understand the material. Of course there will be classes that you hate but there will also be classes that you enjoy.
Tips for prospective students	I personally recommend getting a place where you can study. It's one thing to sit down and try to study and another to get away from your distractions and study. College is meant for 1. getting an education and 2. having fun. Make sure you take care of academics first and develop good studying habits.
In three sentences	ISU is a large campus where you can meet someone new every day. Living on campus is a great way for students to get involved and have better grades. There re plenty of resources available to students whether it's help with classes, counseling, harassment, etc.

Benjamin from Manitwoc, WI

12/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun	I enjoy weightlifting, running and just hanging out with friends for fun.
Food and Dining	Food is great for the first couple of weeks but by the end it starts to get very old and repetitive.
Dorm Life	Living in the dorms is an awesome experience for students to be able to meet new people and develop life long bonds with friends.
Academic Rigor	The school is great at allowing you to be able to push yourself and to be able to expand your learning capabilites.
Tips for prospective students	Be prepared for college in general. Be willing to open up and try new things as well as meet new people.
In three sentences	It is an awesome school for every kind of student. They are very good at making a student feel like they are learning one on one. The university has a small town feel yet has the big campus lifestyle.

Lani from Saint Louis, MO

12/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	ABSOLUTELY JOIN!!!!!!
Great for these types of students	Active, Athletic, Environmental
Food and Dining	I love the dining centers but there should be plain items everyday for people who are picky eaters like myself.
Dorm Life	My dorm is alright but the bathrooms could use some work.
Academic Rigor	After my first semester in college, I can honestly say I am struggling. I know I can do better and will pursue help because there is so much of it at ISU.
Tips for prospective students	Don't join too many clubs right away, school is the reason you are there. Prioritize what is important.
In three sentences	Iowa State is an amazing school! It is just the perfect size and the right amount of students in each class. As cheesy as it sounds, I love waking up in the morning to go to school.

IA

12/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	There are many activities that the school host pretty much every week. And there is a nice gym to go to. Also intramural sports.
Food and Dining	I love going to the Memorial Union to eat. They have so many choices and it is at a reasonable price.
Dorm Life	I haven't lived in the dorms, but my friends have and they said that they really enjoyed living there. They met a lot of new people and made a lot of friends.
Tips for prospective students	It is a big school so you need to get involved in activities to get to know people. There are so many clubs that you can get involved in so it wouldn't be hard to do.
In three sentences	I think that it is a good school to go to. If you are interested in animal science it is a great school for you. It will give you a great education in whatever major you decide to take.

Ian from Ames, IA

12/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun	There is so many things to do, many student groups have events weekly from music and comedians, to weekly free bowling and night games. Getting involved in intramural sports, extracurricular professional groups and fun clubs and any of the exciting projects will keep you always busy and always having a great time.
Food and Dining	There is plenty of cafes and dining on campus but are very crowded during peak times making it difficult to grab something quick to eat between classes.
Dorm Life	I did not live in the dorms at Iowa State, but there are dorms that are more academic focused and some that are party focused. Be sure to research this and choose appropriately.
Academic Rigor	All of my professors have been very competent and fair in their teaching and grading. Never being afraid to ask for help when needed is one of the keys to success. The help labs on campus can be extremely helpful and visiting professors and teaching assistants during their office hours.
Tips for prospective students	Look into scholarships and utilize your academic advisors and career service departments.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a large university with a small feel. Iowa State is one of the few closed land grant public schools in the US meaning that the campus is all nearby and easy to get around. With that small feeling you still are able to get small class sizes once you get past your general education courses which means more one on one time with your professors which goes a long way to your success.

Haley from Ames, IA

12/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I feel very safe at ISU and the Iowa State Police Department police are never far, I usually see at least one squad car a day. There are help buttons all over campus and a phone number for transportation at night. I haven't had any issues at ISU with my safety.
Clubs and Activities	There are so many different organizations at ISU to get involved in.
Great for these types of students	Great for engineering students because ISU has a lot opportunities/majors for them. ISU is also great for Supply Chain Management students (great program).
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Kissing under the Campanile at midnight means you will marry the person you kissed and it also makes you a true ISU student. Walking on the zodiac sign in the Memorial Union will cause you to fail your next exam.
Bang for the buck	ISU is reasonably priced and I feel like I'm paying a fair amount for tuition. However it is expensive to live in the dorms, and I don't think I should have to pay as much as do, however I still think it's worth it.
What to do for fun	The Memorial Union always host lectures, concerts, bingo, and other fun events to do. Getting involved in clubs is the best way to find things to do for fun because its great experience and a great way to meet new people. There is a lot to do in Ames like paint pottery, go shopping, go to movies, go out to eat/coffee, go to the library, and use nature trails.
Food and Dining	There are a lot of dining options available but I am not impressed with the nutrition of food provided. The quality of produce at the dining centers and other restaurants on campus is extremely poor. Buffet style options at the dining centers are filled with chinese, pizza, and mostly unhealthy options. It has been especially difficult to adapt to dining center eating at ISU because I struggle with an eating disorder and the calorie content of all foods is listed next to the food.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is great and I would recommend for all freshman to live in the dorms for the first year. It's great not having to worry about paying various bills and having adults around keeps my living environment quiet and safe. Dorms are a great way to make long lasting friends. I live in Martin Hall and I have been thoroughly impressed with living there, and am going to live in the same dorm next year because I love it so much.
Academic Rigor	Academic rigor is very dependent on the classes that you take, however, finding challenging classes is very easy. There is a class on about everything, and most don't fill up too quickly if you register early enough. There are easy classes as well, and I would compare it to high school because it's really dependent on what you sign up for. I have been challenged, but not overwhelmed by any of my classes.
Tips for prospective students	It's great to have a major figured out when applying to Iowa State because then you are able to apply for more departmental scholarships; if you do decide to switch majors, try to hold off until the end of the academic year, in order to not lose departmental scholarships. Take advantage of resources at the Student Services Center because they can help you with just about anything. Apply to be in the Honors Program at ISU, it's a great way to get opportunities to challenge yourself academically and it's also great for networking and making friends.
In three sentences	I fell in love with Iowa State after a couple weeks of attending classes. The campus is beautiful, and its separation from Ames and beautiful historic buildings, makes it feel more like a college campus than a lot of other colleges and universities. There are a lot of opportunities to get involved, and also there are an endless amount of resources available to help succeed at school.

Rafal from Elmwood Park, IL

12/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	go out and spend some time with friends
Food and Dining	ITS AWESOME
Dorm Life	Got to get friends, and start talking
Academic Rigor	Soon far its nice, most teachers are pretty cool.
Tips for prospective students	Get involved as soon as possible to get to know people.
In three sentences	Iowa state so far is interesting so far

Marcella from Fairfield, IA

12/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	There's lots to do during the week, but the weekends are pretty boring. One cool thing they do though is there use a lecture room with a projector to show movies for free Thursdays through Sundays.
Food and Dining	There are a lot of options to choose from which is really nice, but there's not a ton of variety.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is pretty good, the one downside is it is really loud in some buildings pretty late.
Academic Rigor	The teachers really do challenge you and expect you to do the work and readings to do well on tests. But as long as you do the readings and the assignments all on time it's not bad.
Tips for prospective students	If you plan to bring a car your freshman year, stadium parking is a huge hassle, so if you can, don't get stadium parking. Also if you plan on taking Economics 101, try not to get Professor Weninger.
In three sentences	The campus is great, it seems super confusing when you visit but once you get there you realize the layout is actually really simple and easy. They are renovating or have already renovated a lot of buildings so most of the rooms are nice and not too crowded or run down looking. There are also buses that will take you all over campus and also all over Ames that don't cost any extra, which is great!

Elizabeth from Denver, CO

12/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Haven't felt safer or more at home. Also the campus security is friendly and willing to help at anytime.
Greek Life	A close knit community that helps member and the Ames community but also throw amazing parties.
Clubs and Activities	Work well into your schedule and fill whatever desires you have now or plan to prep for the future.
Great for these types of students	Any kinds, studious, athletic, artistic, musically inclined, linguists, the list is lengthy
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Central Campus for kissing under the campanile at midnight or VEISHA largest student organized student event in the nation (greatest party week)
Bang for the buck	Iowa State University is a hidden treasure
What to do for fun	Over 800 clubs, activities, and organizations. Anything that you can think of we probably have or you could form a club if we don't have one.
Food and Dining	Amazing for the first couple of weeks however home cooking is appreciated when traveling home.
Dorm Life	The smaller residence halls like Roberts are more like a family community with tons of activities to do while the larger hall like Friley are more apartment feel without as many interactive activities with other residents.
Academic Rigor	It is a rigorous education, that will widen your mind and perspective on life. Not only this but allow on to see the world in more then one lens.
Tips for prospective students	Stay on top of your homework because in the long run you will be able to do all the activities you want and desire to participate in. Also to think for yourself and open minded because it is a lot that can be learned and observed.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a middle large college with a wonderful home atmosphere where everyone is friendly. You are challenged to take charge of your own education and make it the adventure you wish to see. At Iowa State University you write your own story and future.

Nathan from Kansas City, MO

12/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are 31,000+ students walking around campus on a daily basis with me and I left safe every minute I have been on campus! I see a good number of policemen driving on the streets of campus, making sure everything is ok. At night, there is a free ISU ride service that will drive you to your destinations to keep you from harm. Every day in the school paper there is a section for the police blotter so that people can find out who & where the trouble is in the area.
Greek Life	I haven't lived in a frat but I know people that live in them & enjoy their time there. Safe to be a part of & the frat people I know are very nice!
Clubs and Activities	There are over 800 clubs affiliated with Iowa State. It's very possible for a person to find multiple clubs that are specific to their major & many others that fit their hobbies. The more involved you are, the better your chances are of getting an internship!
Great for these types of students	Engineers, Designers, Business Majors, Agriculture Majors, & Athletes
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Our biggest tradition happens every year about the week before finals week in the spring, Veishea! Veishea is a week long event with various events & rides celebrating the colleges of Veterinary Medicine, Engineering, Industrial Science, Home Economics, & Agriculture. Our nickname Cyclones is very unique among colleges in the U.S.
Bang for the buck	Of all of the schools I was accepted to, this one was the cheapest based on the scholarships I received by the schools. Even Iowa State was cheaper than any in-state (Missouri) school offering engineering! With your money, you get an awesome learning experience, great friendships & exciting athletics to watch!
What to do for fun	Whenever you are looking for a nice study break, there are tons of options for fun! Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights there is a movie shown for free. The movie is typically one that just came out of the theaters a month or two ago. If you like music, there's the Maintenance Shop where up-and-comers play for various prices almost twice a week. The best fun can be found at the sporting events! Jack Trice Stadium & Hilton Coliseum are always packed with excited Cyclone fans. Students get a discounted price for the games & it is definitely worth it!
Food and Dining	There are two main dining halls on campus & both are great at providing a variety of food options. From Salads, pasta, pizza, Chinese, burgers, deli sandwiches, & cereal, there are lots to choose from! On the west side of campus there is also a sports atmosphere type of restaurant where you can watch sports & use dining dollars or meal bundles to get food. This place is usually open late for those who miss the dining center. All of the food seems to be prepared well & not like something that just came out of the freezer. If you are looking for a job the dining centers have many positions open for hire!
Dorm Life	The rooms are reasonably sized and the majority of them are on campus and nearby your classes; depending on your major. Most of the students living nearby leave their doors open so meeting them is very easy to do. The community adviser is very friendly & creates events to help make the area friendlier and more personable. The majority of the dorms consist of freshman and sophomores and very little seniors. Some of my best friends have come from meeting them in the dorms!
Academic Rigor	All of the teachers know their material; some can teach it better than others. The majority of the core classes are held in huge lecture halls with tons of students, but the more classes you take, the smaller the class sizes are. The engineering students here at Iowa State learn a lot of good information from their classes. It shows because graduated students typically do very well on the Professional Engineering Test and Iowa State has one of the largest career fairs in the U.S.
Tips for prospective students	Get a smaller meal plan when you first start out. I bought the medium sized plan (2 meals per day) but that became too much for me, so i went to the smallest meal plan (8 meals per week). You may be thinking less meals means less food but the smaller the meal plan, the more dining dollars you get. The dining dollars can be used at places like Panda Express & Subway! Also, the best way to find out how good your teachers are is if you use ratemyprofessor.com or even talking to upperclassmen. Get involved early! The more involved you are in activities, the better your chances are of getting an internship over the summer.
In three sentences	The perfect college for me! It's perfect because the students & Ames residents are very pleasant, I learn a lot from my civil engineering classes, and the athletic events are exciting and very supportive of their school. I couldn't imagine myself anywhere else!

Natasha from Marion, IA

12/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Having personally used the campus safety services multiple times, I have to say that in my opinion they are absolutely amazing. They have taken me home when I felt unsafe in reasonable timing and they have helped me with my car when it was stuck in the snow. So in my opinion campus security is great on campus.
Greek Life	Not being part of Greek life makes it difficult for me to review it. From what I have seen Greek life is good in the sense that it will build a community for you, that is like a family, and you will meet people that will be a good influence on you throughout college. Also the Greek life system generally encourages student to get higher grades.
Clubs and Activities	Due to the vast number of activities and clubs on campus there is always something for every student to join that pertains to there interests. The campus has a wide variety that are both diverse and fun based. In my opinion Iowa State does a very good job in including all student with something of there interests.
Great for these types of students	Engineering, Science based majors- biology, micro-bio, physics, mole bio etc. and math based majors.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	I don't really think there are any particularly unusual traditions on campus.
Bang for the buck	The school is in my opinion is generally worth its money as it allows you to have a variety of activities and intramural sports that are free with fees. Also the campus provides health care services at very reasonable prices with a small fee for the semester.
What to do for fun	Iowa State offers a range of activities including dancing, art, martial arts, etc. They also offer fun events such as ISU After Dark (free food, activities, and generally celebrity performers) and VEISHA (concerts and foods) along with Cyclone Cinema (free campus movie theaters that feature new films).
Food and Dining	There are many dining centers that offer a variety of food. The problem is the food is generally poor quality. The food seems to be mostly processed, pre-made, packaged food. I personally only like the stores on campus that make the sandwiches as they use the freshest ingredients in front of you.
Dorm Life	Dorm life in general is acceptable but you will only receive what you have paid for. Generally the dorms are very average and the bathroom facilities are not the nicest. If you wish to live on campus I would suggest living in the suites, as they are much nicer than the normal dorms. The best parts of dorm life would be: that there are many activities to participate in, making friends is easy, there are community advisors that can help with issues, and there are many lounges and spaces to study in other than your actual room.
Academic Rigor	In terms of academic rigor at Iowa State University, I would describe the courses as challenging, but achievable. It is difficult to get through some courses, but there are a large number of resources such as tutors and supplemental instruction leaders, that make it possible to do well in those courses.
Tips for prospective students	For future students, I would suggest taking college credit before entering Iowa State University otherwise one may find themselves in college longer than anticipated. I would also suggest that prospective students acquire the necessary study skills and techniques to be able to do well in college.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is an excellent environment to study in and it is also a wonderful place to live as well. During weekdays Iowa State provides a perfect atmosphere for students to focus on studies and there is always a nice place sit down to study. On the weekends and during free times the campus serves up many activities and events that allow you to relax and live a little.

Katelyn from LeRoy, IL

12/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I always feel completely secure when walking around campus even late at night. There are free rides at night, police patrolling, and many other resources.
Greek Life	The Greek Life is great here. Greeks hold about 78% of leadership positions on campus while only representing 12% of the student body. The Greeks here are committed to their philanthropies and their educations.
Clubs and Activities	There are over 800 clubs and if you still can't find one you like you can request funding to start a club of your own choosing.
Great for these types of students	There is really a place for everyone at this campus.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The school has so many traditions but one of the most common is campaniling which is when two people kiss under the campanile as it strikes midnight.
Bang for the buck	The school does a great job of offering scholarships to out of state students,
What to do for fun	There are always things happening on campus. These range from Greek Life to sporting events, or one of the 800+ clubs that we have on campus.
Food and Dining	The dining centers are very new and offer many different types of food.
Dorm Life	I have not been in a dorm here on campus that I would not be comfortable living in. I live in one of the smallest rooms on campus and I am still happy with my living situation.
Academic Rigor	Even though it is a state school the rigor of the classes is very competitive, especially in the engineering department.
Tips for prospective students	Make sure you know what you are looking for when you visit the school. Take the time to talk to as many people as you can and don't be afraid to ask students on the sidewalk for help, we love giving it.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a beautiful campus with equally beautiful people. The professors teach almost all of the classes and are always willing to help when you need it. This is a great school with a wonderful learning atmosphere.

Victoria from Ames, IA

01/01/2013

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Join a club! There are SO many. I recommend Cyclone Ballroom. Who doesn't love being able to show off your dance skills at weddings and other social events?!
Food and Dining	There are some good places to eat on campus. The Caribou is amazing!
Dorm Life	Dorm life is dorm life... Fun for a while but gets old.
Academic Rigor	This school is fun but they take academic success very seriously.
Tips for prospective students	Come visit the campus and even sit in on a class. Visit every campus you plan on applying to! It will give you a good idea of the feel.
In three sentences	Great environment with a TON of green space in the center of campus. Professors are all really awesome as well as all of the students, of course. Also, the CyRide goes almost everywhere in town!

Marimar from Puerto Rico

01/02/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	ISU has to be one of the safest places ever. In every dorm floor CA's make sure that every student exits whenever the alarm goes on. Also, they provide a safety assistance to students that have to walk back to their dorm late at night.
Clubs and Activities	There's more than 500 clubs! You can think of anything and there's probably a club for it whether it's related to your major or hobbies.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you kiss under the campanile at midnight you are a true Iowa Stater. Stepping on the Zodiac signs on the floor of the Memorial Union will make you fail your next test. Walking with your partner around the lake 3 times means that your relationship is true love.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State University is a great place for latino/hispanic students to study. The latino community is small but very strong. They organize many activities to celebrate the different cultures which brings everyone together.
What to do for fun	The great thing about ISU is that you can never get bored. If you're not studying, there's always some sort of game, intra-mural, concert, or club activity going on.
Food and Dining	It may be that I'm not used to American food (I'm Puerto Rican) but I don't really love the food. It tends to be unhealthy and repetitive. If you're into eating pizza, burgers, and fries then maybe you'll like it.
Dorm Life	Living in a dorm provides an advantage, especially when you're a freshman, because you get to know many people and most dorms will be very close to campus.
Academic Rigor	Excellent professors in every class. Professors and TA's genuinely care about students and about teaching the material. Make sure to take advantage of office hours whenever you have questions.
Tips for prospective students	1) Make sure to visit campus before making a final decision, living on a small town in Iowa may not be everyone's cup of tea. 2)Do not hesitate to ask questions to the cyclone aid. They were very helpful to me in my freshman year. 3) If you are considered a Multi-Cultural student, make sure to visit the Multi-Cultural Office for information about the services offered.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great college for any student looking for a great education and college experience. ISU has a beautiful campus and a wide variety of majors. It has 30,000 students but the service provided by them does not make you feel like you're just another number.

ISU Student

01/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	A LOT of options! There is even starbucks and caribou coffee!
Academic Rigor	It is a really tough curriculum! The only thing is, being in the engineering program, you notice a lot of the tough classes are curved, but it is like that at most colleges!
In three sentences	Iowa State is a great school were students can get involved and feel at home. The academics are great as well as academic services. Another plus is the people in Iowa are super nice!

Taylor from Rockford, IA

01/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Campus is a pretty safe place to be during daytime or weekdays, but don't leave anything valuable in your vehicle.
Clubs and Activities	Iowa State has so many clubs, it is tough to find an interest that doesn't have a club. Students will always have something to do with their time.
Great for these types of students	Iowa State is a great place for students who are willing to put work and time into their studies.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	The most notable traditions is the Campanile, which is a huge clock tower. Students will take their lovers and kiss at midnight when the bells strike.
Bang for the buck	This is a great college, reasonably priced. It is a wonderful place to get a degree.
What to do for fun	There are so many fun things to do at Iowa State. Most people think partying when thinking about college, but there is so much more. There is a club for almost every interest, a robotics club, politics clubs, business clubs, a club that builds go carts for competition, unicycle clubs, if you want it, there is a club for it.
Food and Dining	The dining selections are great, but hilariously overpriced.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is great for a first year student, but not for students further along in their career who really need alone time for studying.
Academic Rigor	The engineering classes at Iowa State are extremely well rounded. If you study hard, do the homework, and really work for it, an A is completely achievable. If you don't study, your grade will reflect it.
Tips for prospective students	Get involved with as many possible activities as you can, find a job on campus, and most importantly, don't be the same person you were in high school. You are in a new place, be whoever you want to be, no matter what you will find friends.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great college in that it allows each student to be as involved as they want. Multiple opportunities wait around every corner, in every building, in every lecture, in every club. It is a wonderful place to explore yourself, and to develop professional relationships that will last a lifetime.

Amanda from Countryside, IL

01/06/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	It is super safe. There is always campus security and the help van that are there for your aid.
Clubs and Activities	There are a ton of clubs and activities. There are clubs for your major, your future career, and clubs that are just pure fun. Activities are always happening with clubs, dorms, and the whole campus.
Great for these types of students	Engineering and researchers will love this school as it is targeted toward them.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA is an annual celebration held at Iowa State each spring, and is one of the oldest traditions. This celebration serves as a showcase and display of the Iowa State community with educational and entertainment events.
Bang for the buck	School is expensive wherever you go. So yes, it is expensive, but I see the glass half full. It is giving a great education and experience that I might not appreciate as much if I went to a different university.
What to do for fun	The Memorial Union always has events and speakers lined up to enhance your time there. Going out and just walking around seeing new people and places is fun.
Food and Dining	The food is obviously not your mom's home cookin', but as university food it is quite good. People from other universities that ate at the dining centers have said that ours is so much better.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is great. Get into the freshman dorms and you will meet people that are a lot like you and will want to see even after the 4 years. Most people like going out swell as staying in.
Academic Rigor	The work can be difficult, just make sure you manage your time well. Ask for help when needed and go to office hours. If you cannot make the office hours e-mail your professor because they will set up an appointment with you. Labs can be difficult so ask your T.A. before hand what they want in your lab report.
Tips for prospective students	Research is something you should consider soon because professors try to get you involved soon. I recommend thinking about your 4-year plan before you start because you will probably have to do it sometime during your Freshman year and it gives you a reminder of what you need to do to be successful in 4 years. Get involved in dorm activities and try to get close to your community advisor because you will meet more people and your C.A. can help you with whatever you need while still being a peer.
In three sentences	It is a wonderful place to learn about school and life. It has a great atmosphere in the classroom and in the dorms. There is always someone or somewhere you can go do to receive help.

Turbo964

01/09/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

163 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Safety is great. If you're afraid to leave a building late at night, you can call the help van.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Don't step on the zodiac if you're superstitious!
What to do for fun	Go to campus events. Play video games with floor mates. Hang out.
Food and Dining	Great food all around. Plenty of variety.
Dorm Life	Dorm life is exciting and very fun filled. Even if you have nothing to do on the weekend you can always find people to hang out with.
Academic Rigor	Manage your time wisely.
Tips for prospective students	The best advice I can give to prospective students is to come and visit!
In three sentences	Iowa State is unique. Iowa State is full of life. Iowa State is the place to be. :)

Jonna from Earling, IA

01/15/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I have not heard of any bad news of what has happened on campus. There has been no shootings. There is a safety escort for when you feel that it is not safe enough to walk around campus by your self.
Greek Life	We have a great Greek community which I am not involved with though. They do accomplish great things on campus and are very well respected on campus.
Clubs and Activities	There are so many clubs to choose from it is hard to pick from them all. It is amazing to have such choices!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA is a week long celebration about the original colleges of the campus. It a great time with many fun things to do.
Bang for the buck	The dollar theater and there is also free movies on campus.
What to do for fun	There is a wreck center, and there is a Perfect games. There is a theater and many other activities.
Food and Dining	Some places the food gets tiring because it is not as mixed up as what I am used to.
Tips for prospective students	Do not treat it like high school it is a lot harder than that. Live it to the fullest but do not get caught up in the partying scene.
In three sentences	Iowa state is a large school for a small town girl like me. I can handle it though because there is bigger out there. It does feel personal and you can connect with many people very easily.

Maleah from Ottumwa, IA

01/29/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

165 of 187

Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Campus safety has never been an issue but if you dont want to walk home alone in the dark the ISU PD has a help van service that will escort you safely home.
Greek Life	Lots of greek housed to choose from. They hold lots of functions.
Clubs and Activities	I think there is over 500 clubs on campus. From ski club, fishing club, harry potter quidditch club and many more. Always ways to get involved and stay busy.
Great for these types of students	This college is so diverse that it is a great fit for anyone.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you are looking for a great college ministry check out The Salt Company. Over 1000 students and a great place to meet great friends and people who truly care. Plus its a campus organization too!
Bang for the buck	Great college and cost isn't to high. But there isnt much funding scholarship wise so expect to have loans.
What to do for fun	When its nice go star gazing or other fun activities in central campus.
Food and Dining	3 dining halls with great food options. The best places in conversations Dining center. It is small but offers high quality food that will always keep you what they are going to serve next. Plus the staff is always great!
Dorm Life	I am a senior and have lived in the dorms every year. I am partial to Linden Hall for its big rooms, built in closets and wonderful atmosphere and diversity.
Academic Rigor	The classes are challenging because the teachers expect the best work you can do. But depending on the major depends on the course load for sure.
Tips for prospective students	Apply here and make the most of it. You will Love ISU and be proud to wear cardinal and gold!
In three sentences	Iowa State has a beautiful campus and great atmosphere for any college student. They offer so many programs and other unique opportunities.

Mia from Urbandale, IA

02/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I've never felt unsafe, nor have I heard anyone else complain. If you don't feel safe, you can always call campus security for an escort.
Greek Life	Very prominent, there's a large portion of students that belong to a house.
Clubs and Activities	There's so many the only problem is that you can't do them all!
Great for these types of students	Students that like an active, busy vibe.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	We don't step on the zodiac, and people kiss under the Campanile at midnight!
Bang for the buck	You get a lot of benefits from paying tuition. The gyms are newly renovated, and the Career Office is a free service to help students find jobs and internships.
What to do for fun	There's never a dull moment. Join one of the 800+ clubs, go to ISU After Dark, there's always a show at the M-Shop, movies play at Carver Hall on the weekends, and residence halls often plan activities!
Food and Dining	The dining centers are everyone's favorite place to go. There's enough space to accommodate big groups of friends, and there's huge selection of food to choose from.
Dorm Life	I like that the dorms are respectable. Nobody keeps you up playing loud music!
Academic Rigor	It's definitely challenging enough without being backbreaking.
Tips for prospective students	Don't be afraid to try a class that isn't a part of your major. I learned that Animal Science was not the right path for me by taking a class in microbiology. Also, don't let yourself get pulled along with the crowd. Just because your friends are all in the same class, club, or Greek house doesn't mean that you can't find your own niche.
In three sentences	Iowa State is great because of the campus, staff, and programs. The campus is something I didn't think would be very important to me, but I really like the college feel of having all my classes within a 15-minute walk. The staff are here to help, professors respond quickly to emails, and there are so many ways to get help outside of class like Supplemental Instruction which is free to everyone! I also love the many ways for students to get involved and have fun; intramural sports and learning communities are a big part of campus life.

Kayla from Plainfield, IL

02/05/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are safety escorts that run from 6pm-6am every day. But campus is light at all times and I've never felt unsafe.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	There are hundreds of years of traditions and history on campus. Some of my favorite include lake Laverne, the zodiac, and VEISHEA
What to do for fun	Besides hanging with friends; There is always a university run event being held on the weekends, mostly located in the MU
Food and Dining	Great food, with many locations, but not much variety at the on campus restaurants.
Dorm Life	There are so many options for places to live both on campus and off (if you are a transfer or upper class men looking for an apartment or house.
Academic Rigor	Depending on your major and what classes you take, it can be a lot of work. Especially when in either a design, engineering, or science program.
Tips for prospective students	Understand that if you dont know what you want to do as freshman (either clubs, major, social, etc) that its OK! There is always enough activities/ time/ and events going on when on campus and off campus.
In three sentences	I love ISU! Besides the amazing campus that is beautiful during every extream Iowa season, the faculty is great. Every fall semester I return to Ames, it feels as if Im going home, not leaving.

Van from Vietnam

02/08/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The police is available 24/24 and oncampus service HELPVAN is, too. You just call them whenever you need help and they will be present in two minutes to help you, for example to move around cammpus after 6pm.
Clubs and Activities	There are hundreds of clubs for you to take part in either you are a business, psychology, biology, design student, or whatever, there are clubs that match you. There are many extra classes to support your study. Besides, the students activities center host many events on campus every week and the many of them are free.
Great for these types of students	Those who will major design, especially architecture and engineering. Those who want to live and study in a safe campus. Those who are really serious in studying. Those who want to have a part time jos on campus. Those who love extracurricular activities and studying abroad.
What to do for fun	Hanging out with your friends, taking part in clubs and activities on campus such as campus events, sports, film nights, parties, meetings. Many of them are free.
Food and Dining	Many dining centers and both American and Asian food such as Chinese food. There are many meal plans and dining dollars for you to choose.
Dorm Life	Many activities to take part in. The majority of your neighbors are at the same year of college of you, so you will never be alone. There are parties and dinners and meetings at each hall every week to make friends and connections.
Academic Rigor	The professors are high- qualified and very nice. You must study really hard to pass classes.
Tips for prospective students	Study hard and try to look up scholarships. Applying as soon as possible. Even if you have difficulties at the first time of colleges, keep going and take chances ahead of you.
In three sentences	The 9th best school for architecture. Good facilities and services. Good studying and living environment.

Leah from Ames, IA

02/11/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus is very safe. I have never heard of any one having any kind of serious safety issues. Also, I am in design and frequently walk to or from the design center alone in the dark, not once have I ever felt unsafe.
What to do for fun	The campus has a lot of different activities that they host almost constantly so you can't really say there is nothing to do. One of my favorites is the Cyclone Cinema where they show movies that are not yet out on DVD for free, Thursday through Sunday nights.
Food and Dining	The dining halls do a great job of switching up meals so that you don't get board of any food. The food is well prepared and tastes great. Much better than a lot of the other colleges I visited.
Dorm Life	I live in Friley hall and I love it! I even considered staying here an extra year because I like the dorms so much. I have friends all over Union Drive and they all love their dorms too. I honestly don't think there is a bad dorm in the Union Drive neighborhood. It is a great location because you are close to campus, food and the gym.
Academic Rigor	This defiantly is not an easy school, but it really depends on the classes you take and how hard you are willing to work. I came from a pretty intense high school so the amount of work and studying that is required is nothing new to me. The one thing that I have heard most from friends that went to easier high schools is that they don't know how to take good notes. Taking good notes is one of the most important things to do in college if you want to succeed.
Tips for prospective students	If you are at all thinking about Iowa State, I would say you should just do it. I know that it seems scary and intimidating at first because it seems so big, but in reality on a day to day basis you won't even notice the size. One other important thing to do, is find something you like to do and jump in head first. You will end up making tons of friends, having fun and it will also be a good outlet if school gets stressful.
In three sentences	I can not say enough good things about this school. I absolutely love it here and I truly feel like I have found the perfect place for me. I am only a freshmen and I already feel like I know exactly what I am doing here.

Mackensie from Johnston, IA

02/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Ames police and Iowa State Security are always seen driving around campus. You can't get more than a mile without seeing one drive by. The campus is close enough together that you wouldn't be wandering out about at night without being near help and other buildings. To walk from the south side of campus to the north side of campus wouldn't take more than 20 minutes.
Greek Life	Plenty of frats and sororities to join! You'll always see them walking around campus. The houses are neat and the parties have good reputations, too!
Clubs and Activities	There are TONS of clubs and activities to join. Joining more than one would require a ton of dedication and time management, but at least there are options!
Great for these types of students	Agriculture, engineering, any student interested in design or drama. But, of course, EVERYONE!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you visit, or decide to attend here...never walk on the Zodiac! You'll get bad luck!
Bang for the buck	Certain programs at ISU are ranked throughout the country. You'll be paying a decent amount of money to attend this college and come out with good knowledge and experience for your degree. Tuition is fairly low, compared to other schools in the U.S.
What to do for fun	There are plenty of things to do on and off campus. There are always activities going on, from movies and plays to sporting events and concerts. Tons of restaurants locate Ames, along with a shopping mall and movie theater.
Food and Dining	There are tons of places to eat around campus. You'll never run out of options of what to eat! The dining centers accommodate to the expected crowds so you usually can find a place to sit.
Dorm Life	Everybody here is friendly! You'll always say hi or smile at someone in the hallway. You'll meet tons of people living on campus. Floors and buildings connect via activities and social events.
Academic Rigor	Every class is different. You will have self-paced classes and classes that help you along the entire semester. Typically, you'll get an even balance of hard classes and easier classes so you can stay on top of your homework.
Tips for prospective students	GET INVOLVED. The best way to meet anyone is to join clubs and activities. You will never regret socializing and meeting all the many types of people out there.
In three sentences	Iowa State is a GREAT campus! There is tons of diversity and it is very culturally distinct. Some of the best programs start here.

Molly from Hudson, WI

03/02/2013

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	This is a super big part of campus, they are always putting on events and around homecoming it can get pretty crazy.
Clubs and Activities	Buy season tickets to the football games and go! These will be the best games of your life!!
Great for these types of students	Engineers and Pre-Med are the main colleges on campus
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Central Campus is the best place to study in the warmer months. Everyone is out there and its beautiful. Also the Camp O' Neil is our clock tower and when it strikes midnight you are supposed to kiss your significant other under the stars.
Bang for the buck	If you are coming from out-of-state like I was, then it is on the expensive side. But considering all the free events and the Health Care they provide, I would spend lots of time doing the campus activities instead of spending money going to other places.
What to do for fun	Memorial Union at Night and the Student Union Board and two groups that plan super fun events. There are FREE movies playing every week and once a month they have concerts or comedians.
Food and Dining	There is a buffet style dinning hall with a large variety. The best place on campus to eat is Seasons because their dining hall is larger and they have great deserts.
Dorm Life	You will love it. I lived in Helser and it was so much fun! The best part about living in the dorms is the friends you make because everyone is afraid that they wont make friends, so everyone bonds.
Academic Rigor	If you are in Pre-Med or Engineering, you will be thrown into the crowd. The best advise is to go to the Supplemental Instructions nights every time even if you don't think you need help because reviewing is important.
Tips for prospective students	If you know what your major is, this is a great place to go. Study hard because it is really hard to recover from your first semester. Also for the record, talking to your professors has a positive impact on your grade.
In three sentences	This school has a great Greek system and a beautiful campus. There are tons of events to get involved in or to hang out at on every night of the week. This is a great place to go for Engineering.

Grace from Jewell, IA

03/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There are Help Vans that drive around assisting people who have tire or engine or other car problems. They also give emergency rides to people.
Greek Life	Not in one personally, but there are a lot, and they are very healthy.
Clubs and Activities	Lots and lots of them!
Great for these types of students	Make friends! They will help you!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	There are many traditions, including Veisha, a fair/carnival/parade that happens every spring.
Bang for the buck	Ames has some pretty cool stores and things to do, so does campus. There are many intramural sports that people can participate in.
What to do for fun	So many clubs! There are clubs for Harry Potter quidditch, fake-sword fighting, and book clubs.
Food and Dining	There are a lot of food options, and many dining centers.
Dorm Life	Leave your door open. And bring tools, like screwdrivers and hammers. You'll be impressed how many people need them in those first few days.
Academic Rigor	Study, study, study. Groups are preferable.
Tips for prospective students	Leave your dorm room door open; that's how you meet all kinds of people.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is different than what I thought it would be. I was really nervous to start college, but after the first week, I realized how cool college could be. Sure, it is a lot of hard work, but I am starting to really enjoy college and the people of Iowa State.

Ryan from Wheaton, IL

03/13/2013

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

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	Movie theater close by as well as a small town to hang out.
Food and Dining	The food is great.
Dorm Life	Vistited the dorms, they are cozy.
Academic Rigor	I haven't taken the classes so i'm not sure.
Tips for prospective students	Go for it, just apply.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a great cafeteria. The food is amazing, I think i might have gained a pound or two for the brief time peroid I was there for. The Campus is easy to get around and the students are nice.

Ellyn from Ames, IA

03/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Food and Dining	There are so many cafes, convenience stores and restaurants on campus. Although some things can be pricey, most taste pretty good and just the right amount.
Dorm Life	Making friends and having a social life is what dorm life is all about. Also, academics are strongly encouraged. There are so many activities and opportunities out there, take advantage of all of them.
Academic Rigor	It's fairly difficult. But that doesn't mean you won't ace the class. With all of the resources on campus available to you for free or for a small price, it's definitely worth it.
Tips for prospective students	Do not be embarrassed to get tutoring. Every does because it's almost necessary. Make friends with the professors and the class will be ten times easier. Get active in clubs and groups on campus the second you step foot on campus, or you'll regret it.
In three sentences	The campus is beyond beautiful and easy to navigate around. There are many resources to help with classes and career opportunities. Overall, if I were to rate ISU on a scale from 1 to 10, it'd hit a high 10.

Molly from Ames, IA

03/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	The campus is incredibly safe. In my orientation class (LAS 101), they used a whole lecture to talk about campus safety and I was really convinced that I was going to school on a safe campus.
Greek Life	I'm not a part of Greek Life, so I can't really say anything about it.
Clubs and Activities	There are over five hundred clubs and organizations that students can join, and if a student wants to do something that isn't on that list, they can try to start a new club.
Great for these types of students	This school is great for all types of students, even students who don't know what they want to study. There is a little bit of everything at this school, and the open option program is great for looking at all of those things and finding out what to do after college.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Since I am only a freshman living off campus, I don't know any unusual traditions or locations on campus, but I might learn at least one before I graduate.
Bang for the buck	It really depends on how many things a student gets involved with on campus. In my opinion, it is definitely worth the money.
What to do for fun	There are fun things to do on and off campus, but it's a matter of looking for it. A main thing is getting involved on campus, I was recently in an ISU Theatre production and that was very fun.
Food and Dining	Even though I can't say much about the dining services in the dorms, the food around campus is pretty good. There is a caribou coffee on campus, and there are multiple cafes in buildings on campus. Also, the food at Memorial Union is good too.
Dorm Life	I can't really say much about living in dorms because I don't live in one, but I've heard that some dorms and roommates are nice, and some aren't from friends who live in dorms.
Academic Rigor	The academic rigor highly depends on the course and the professor teaching it, there isn't (or doesn't seem to be) any overall grade for rigor. Some professors are very strict and some are more laid-back. However, all the professors I've had seemed very knowledgable about the subjects they taught.
Tips for prospective students	It is a great school when it comes to academics and social life. There are over five hundred clubs to join. There are also learning communities that students can join to do well in the specific classes they are for, and to get to know people with the same interests.
In three sentences	This is a great school, in many ways. I enjoyed almost every class I took so far. The view of central campus is beautiful, and is a joy to see every time someone walks past it.

Sue from Ames, IA

03/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	There are so many things to do. The University itself offers many clubs and activities for students to do.
Food and Dining	There are many options every day. There are the dining centers, the C Stores and then there's also a fast dining restaurant type of place. It's all very good!
Dorm Life	Most kids are very fun and inviting. The CAs on each floor are very open and welcoming. You walk into any dorm at Iowa State, and it makes you feel lucky that you go to such a great school.
Academic Rigor	Academically I feel that Iowa State is great at it. The professors make kids want to come to school, and they make class interesting.
Tips for prospective students	If you are thinking about coming to Iowa State, come! It's the number 1 healthiest school (no freshman 15!)
In three sentences	Iowa State University is a great school for academics and growing as a person. It has many opportunities in everything for everyone.

Rachael from Ames, IA

03/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I feel super safe on campus, there are always police on patrol around campus.
Greek Life	There is a lot of Greek Life but not enough to say that they rule the school.
Clubs and Activities	Multiple! You can find any club to fit your personality.
Great for these types of students	Any type actually, there are lots of groups and clubs for anyone to join.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHEA
Bang for the buck	Totally worth it! You get what you pay for, that is for sure!
What to do for fun	Multiple rec centers, movies, ice skating rink, SPORTS GAMES and much more.
Food and Dining	Great food options! Can go and have something different everyday.
Academic Rigor	Classes can be hard, but they challenge you to do better.
Tips for prospective students	Some majors are easy and some are hard, be prepared for whichever you choose. Get good study habits early, they are hard to develop later. Join clubs and volunteer EARLY or else you will regret it later.
In three sentences	Great college, love the atmosphere and the campus is great. Sometimes feels as though they take money for the littlest things. Classes are good and somewhat challenging and the teacher to student ratio is decent.

Kayla from Ames, IA

03/25/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Greek Life	I am not in any greek house.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	VEISHA, its not unusual but it is a blast!
What to do for fun	Go to sporting events. There is always something going on in the Memorial Union, like free movies, bowling and many other things.
Dorm Life	I do not live in the dorms, but I have heard that it is good.
Tips for prospective students	Study hard and read your text books, it helps so much when you go to lecture.
In three sentences	Iowa State has a great campus. Iowa State has so many opportunities for help with your classes. There are so many different clubs that are available to join

Peter from Des Moines, IA

04/07/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Bikes get stolen but that's about the only thing.
Greek Life	Like the stereotypes if not worse
Bang for the buck	If you're in-state.
What to do for fun	Join clubs.
Food and Dining	Meal plan is a total rip off and bad quality. Ave $10 a meal for friends.
Dorm Life	Never did it. Save the money and trouble.
Academic Rigor	Not Ivy League but they teach you how to think and that's what counts.
Tips for prospective students	Don't do the meal plan.
In three sentences	Clean and beautiful campus. Great engineering programs. Always something going on.

Carlos from Richmond, TX
04/13/2013
Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

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Categories Comments

In three sentences
Awesome research institution

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Pepe from Iowa
04/23/2013
Reviewer is A current student here.

181 of 187

Categories Comments

Greek Life
The Greek life has been very good to me.

In three sentences
Beautiful campus. Excellent activities. VEISHA.

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Nicole from Carroll, IA

05/03/2013

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

182 of 187

Categories	Comments
What to do for fun	MUSIC
Tips for prospective students	Apply early so you get the dorm you want!
In three sentences	Such a great school. I'm a third generation Cyclone and proud of it. Knew it was the school for me right away.

Sheldon from Walcott, IA

05/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	If you step on the zodiac sign in the MU, you will fail your next exam. You are not a true Cyclone unless you kiss your lover under the campanile at midnight
Bang for the buck	From what I hear cheaper than most other places and the costs are not increasing. Given these. the beautiful campus, and the available amenities its good for the price.
What to do for fun	Besides the stuff you find on campus the town is pretty bare of things to do for fun. There are some cheap theatres and other places though, and recently the mall has been expanding.
Food and Dining	The dining is very diverse and somethings is almost always open. Most of the food is good.
Dorm Life	The dorm life is nice and fun. Very involved and depending on where you live range from noisy to quiet.
Academic Rigor	Classes range from insane to extremely fun so the norm. The harder and worse classes can be mainly found in biology and a few other places. The most useless classes (unless its your major) are chemistry abd biology.
Tips for prospective students	Take summer classes so you can register for classes before the rest of your class and make sure to get involved.
In three sentences	The campus is absolutely gorgeous and easy to traverse. The majority of the classes are great but there are a few that sucks. Beware of chemistry and biology departments though because they are not quite as nice as they should be.

Valarie from Muscatine, IA

05/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	I feel very safe on campus. The campus is closed and there are emergency phone systems throughout the campus. I have never felt endangered to be on campus, even late at night.
Greek Life	I am not a part of Greek Life, but there are tons of Sororities and Fraternities and they are very popular.
Clubs and Activities	Iowa State University has tons of clubs and extra curricular activities that are easy to get involved in. They have an activities fair twice a year so students can see and sign up for clubs they may be interested in and most of them are listed online and are easy to join.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	Iowa State has many traditions. Campaniling is where you and your sweetheart kiss under the campanile right at midnight and you are not a true ISU student until you have done so. Stepping on the Zodiac in the entrance of the Memorial Union is said to bring bad luck and if you do so you are supposedly going to fail your next test.
What to do for fun	Iowa State University has tons of clubs and extra curricular activities that are easy to get involved in. They have an activities fair twice a year so students can see and sign up for clubs they may be interested in and most of them are listed online and are easy to join. There is also a golf course and 2 frisbee golf courses that are nearby and very popular among students. The ice skating rink also offers a discounted price to students on a certain day and it's right on campus. The social scene is very active and a lot of fun. There is always something to do!
Food and Dining	The dining centers are superb. There are many dining options available throughout campus and the food was varied and very good.
Dorm Life	I lived in the dorms as a freshman and it was great. There are many options and the roommate pairing system works well. The dorms were well kept and a great place to socialize.
Academic Rigor	It's important to do well here because getting below a 2.0 semester grade for over 2 semesters in a row will result in dismissal from the university. The classes aren't easy and there are lots of big lecture hall type classes so studying outside of class is crucial. They provide lots of academic help and resources including tutoring which I have taken advantage of.
Tips for prospective students	A study tip that I would recommend to students is to really know the information. Do not just memorize formulas and definitions-really learn and be able to apply them. Many of your classes are built on each other so just passing by in one class could really hurt you when it's actually a foundation for another few classes. Depending on your personality, it may also help to find friends that take the same classes as you. I tend to do better in classes that I take with my friends because not only can I study with them and have another reference to go to if I don't understand something, but it really motivates me to do well because when we're comparing grades after exams and such it's almost like a contest to see who can get a better grade. Also, it's okay to get a tutor for classes that you struggle with. I usually do well with school and was embarrassed to get a tutor at first, but once I got one for a class that I really didn't understand it made a huge difference and I am so glad that I did. Something important that I've learned through experience that I would tell to students is to get to know your professors. It may seem kind of awkward, but it makes a huge difference. I go to a large university and a lot of my classes are large lecture halls, so it takes effort to communicate with professors. Visiting your professor during their office hours and not being afraid to email them will make you more comfortable with them and when they see you making an effort they will be more willing to help you. Sitting in the first few rows and participating in class is another tip that I would give. ItÃ¢Â?Â?s much easier to pay attention in class and retain information when youÃ¢Â?Â?re actively engaged and a lot of the information is given during lectures that you may not be able to find in your books. Going to class is crucial to your learning. Also, keep an open mind because there are so many different options in the business school and if you are set on just one major or just one career you may miss out on greater opportunities.
In three sentences	Iowa State University has a beautiful campus, friendly students, and a great faculty. They provide lots of extra curricular activities and opportunities to get involved for every interest imaginable, and if you're interest isn't available than starting a club is easy and manageable. They also have a great career service for students and alumni to use for careers after graduation.

Andre from Apple Valley, MN

05/19/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	Iowa State sends text message alerts, or calls students phones if there is a campus emergency. Also there is a help van that is available if you need to get somewhere and there is no Iowa State bus currently running. This is very useful for people that need help during inconvenient hours of the day or night. There are also on campus emergency phones that can be called during late hours. An escort security guard will take you to your desired destination to ensure your safety and state of mind.
Clubs and Activities	There are over 800 clubs and organizations offered at Iowa State and this is a great way to meet new people that share the same interests as you. This is how many students get involved and make new friends during their first year, or even throughout their entire college career.
What to do for fun	There are many fun things to do at Iowa State. If you join an organization or club, there are many activities that you can do with them, depending on what the club is. Many students that are in dorms hang out with other students in their dorm or with the people that are on the same floor in the dorm. There are intramural sports that any student can join just to have fun. This is a good way to relieve stress and to relax.
Food and Dining	The dining centers at Iowa State are great. There are several dining halls spread around the entire campus, but they are each very unique and offer their own atmosphere and availability of food. It is an all you can eat type of dining center and there are many diverse foods available. If a student has a meal plan and a guest visiting Iowa State, they have a right to use a guest meal on them. Each student with a meal plan has 5 guest meals each semester and I thought this was very unique and innovative with dining centers.
Dorm Life	The dorm life could vary in between which dorm you selected to stay in. My freshmen year I chose to stay in the Wilson Hall dorm and it was a great experience. The residents and students on my floor, and dorm were very friendly and very open to meeting new people. The rooms were a bit small, but just big enough to fit all of my belongings. But this is a way to experience new things, become more independent, and to meet new people and make connections.
Academic Rigor	Many of the classes I took for engineering are very tough because engineering is a tough major. Most of my teachers were very good at teaching and the lecture sizes were about 300 students. The core engineering classes were challenging but very interesting because of the material being taught, and the concepts.
Tips for prospective students	Incoming students should be aware that academics come first. This could be very hard once they leave their parents/ guardians house to come live an independent life. It is a hard transition for many students, but there are faculty members and students that they can talk with if there are any difficulties. Adjusting to the dorm life and independent studying can be difficult too, but with right amount of effort and learning experience, it should be overall fine.
In three sentences	Iowa State University has very good student atmosphere with well developed courses and organizations. The staff and students are very friendly and welcoming and the classes are challenging in a good way. There are many events that go on throughout the year to make it fun for students and to take a relaxing break from studying. Iowa State is a great school.

Zaim from Ames, IA

05/20/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	It's so safe that walking in the middle of the night after studying in the library isn't a problem since they have the safe push button in one of the safe shuttles on the campus.
Great for these types of students	This university is great for students who wants to lay back and see where they are in life and which majors will be right for them.
Bang for the buck	Iowa State University gives many scholarships and grants to in and out of state residents due to financial need or scholar achievements to reduce your payments attending to this great university.
What to do for fun	Joined 6 clubs at Iowa State University to get rid of my stress and have fun in the college life and also spread my social network. 3 clubs are academics, 2 clubs are volunteers, and 1 club is the extra-curricular. Utilize the clubs you choose and it can make a huge difference in your life.
Food and Dining	The foods and dining places are either you hate or you love it. Hate to the point that it's too pricey and the varieties are too minimum. Love due to the point that they do all the cooking for you and you get an unlimited buffet styles for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Dorm Life	From dorms in Richardson court to the out of campus Maricopa being constructed for the fall of 2013 due to the high rates of returning students and incoming freshmans.
Academic Rigor	The only complicated and rigorous courses that will be a wall to strive and climb upon is the three hundred levels courses and higher in your undergrad. The basic educations are quite simple and you just have to follow the directions of your professors.
Tips for prospective students	Ames is a small city with a campustown environment and the connection of students with people is amazing. Don't ever let time pass by and make a great friend while you're there.
In three sentences	Iowa State University is the largest public research of higher institution in America.

Sarah from Maple Grove, MN

05/24/2013

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Categories	Comments
Campus Safety	There is a lot Iowa State dose to ensure their students safety.
Greek Life	Fantastic. I am a proud member of the Greek community.
Clubs and Activities	There are so many different clubs and activities to do on campus. There is something to do everyday.
Great for these types of students	Everyone. There are over 100 different majors to choose from.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus	We have a clock tower on campus named The Campanille.
Bang for the buck	It is money well spent.
What to do for fun	I spend time with my dorm friends.
Food and Dining	They provide us with many options as we have four dining centers on campus.
Dorm Life	My dorm is absolutely fantastic. We are very social and get along really well. I prefer to spend time in my dorm than go out on weekends because I enjoy being around everyone in my dorm.
Academic Rigor	Iowa State will be a challenge but it is manageable.
Tips for prospective students	Make the most out of the time you have at college. Find the right study spot for you to ensure you are performing to the best of your abilities.
In three sentences	It is a quality institution that successfully prepares students for the real world and is with the student every step of the way.

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Greek Life	The Greek life has been very good to me.
In three sentences	Beautiful campus. Excellent activities. VEISHA.