Norwich University
Northfield, VT, USA

Reviews

Norwich University

Jesse from Clinton, ME

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
After adjusting to the new lifestyle (both the Corps of Cadets and the whole college life) I settled into my classes and found whole new sections of math and science to explore. New theories and rules keep coming as I go on in my classwork. I'm learning a lot, and sometimes it is stressful, but so interesting and exciting at the same time. And I've only just finished my freshmen year.
Am enjoying being here
As a Cadet in the Corps, I live an extremely unique life at school here. One-tenth of one percent is a saying I heard a lot my first few weeks. Very few students live like I do, and even fewer enjoy the close bonds that living in the Corps creates. I know my Rook Brothers and Sisters at school better than I know some of my family back home. The constant challenge to push yourself harder and further is in every aspect of the school; academics, Physical Training, extracurricular activities, and so on.
Bang for the buck
Norwich has an excellent reputation with the Armed Forces and with many businesses across the country, many of my friends from school found summer employment easily from Norwich alumni or from people who know Norwich's reputation. We're looked at with greater respect for the most part than more recognizable schools like Westpoint.
Tips for prospective students
Be stubborn, and refuse to give up. Especially for those of you looking at the Corps. It's tough and there are many mental games played, but if you manage to make it through all of the challenges, the feeling of accomplishment is the greatest thing this school has given me so far. Work hard an you'll go far.
Great for these types of students
Many of the classes are team-oriented, and have students working together on projects a lot of the time. If you work well in a team you'll go far at Norwich University.

Rugger

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A small, private, expensive college placed right in the middle of a beautiful Green Mountain valley of Vermont. The Corp of Cadets is the base of it's strong traditions with a twist of mainly Architecture, Engineering, and Athletic Civilians. Some students (like myself) love it here, others despise it.
Tips for prospective students
Learn what the Corp is BEFORE you get here, and make sure you check the right box. Students come here for a reason, you don't pay $45,000 for partying here.
Academic Rigor
If you choose a major like Architecture, Engineering, or Nursing you will be part of a top notch program. If you come here as a Criminal justice, English or Communications, it's not very challenging and the Professors are sub-par.
Dorm Life
The University is re-modeling all Corp buildings. By the Fall 2012, 4/8 buildings will be completely remodeled and look incredible. South, the new civilian building is the base of the remodels.
Food and Dining
The food is better than average at most Universities, they have a great selection: Vegetarian/Vegan, Deli, European, Grill, Pizza/Pasta, and Cereal/Bread. Food gets old after awhile, but I feel that happens at every University.
What to do for fun
There are weekly activities including yoga, karaoke, and late night programming. There is always a big name concert every year, for example Lee Brice.
Bang for the buck
It depends what your major is and how well your ties are to Alumni. Alumni LOVE the University and poor money into it and are main sources of jobs in internships.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Plenty, that you will find out when you arrive.....
Great for these types of students
High Schoolers wanting the military lifestyle, to commission as an officer in the military, get their life straightened out, to get a valuable degree
Clubs and Activities
New clubs and activities are always encouraged and endorsed by the University. The club hockey team is really good.
Greek Life
Non-existent
Campus Safety
Emergency towers all over campus. Security responds within reasonable time.

Sarah from Jericho, VT

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes are small and the teachers have enough time to help out a student when needed. Staff and teachers are friendly, helpful and approachable. If your in the Corps then you will learn a lot from your cadre(junior upperclassmen) and company staff.
Am enjoying being here
Being a freshman in the Corps is hard, but it is worth it. You do a lot of fun things as a freshman, even in the corps.You meet a lot of people from different states and countries. There are exchange students from other military academies in different countries. Last semester there were German military exchange students and this semester Chinese military students.
Bang for the buck
Norwich estimated that I would receive a state grant of about $6,000. I only received $750. Norwich covered the difference and I did not have to take out another loan or pay out of pocket. There are a lot of work study and non work study jobs available to help students. I currently work sporting events on campus. Its fun, and if your a Rook it gets you out of the barracks.
Tips for prospective students
Visit, especially if you are interested in the Corps of Cadets. Be prepared to take a lot of notes and sit through a lot of power point presentations, specially in engineering and ROTC classes. If you plan on doing he Corps, come physically fit enough to pass the Army PT test.
Great for these types of students
Students who want to commission in the military or succeed in the corporate world. Norwich has a great reputation, and a very big alumni community. There are a ton of opportunities, both home and abroad for Norwich students.

Jaime from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am a Criminal Justice major and as I am attending this school in all the clubs and in the life of the Corps of Cadets I learn many things. I have learned some of the ways military life will be like. Also, in my major I learn many ways on how the law works. In the HITS club I have learned how to act and/or react to situation both in the military and as a police officer.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy being here because the this place has a sense of pride and tradition. Here I feel as a member of something bigger than a student in this university. Even the small town outside of the university supports us and in return when have supported them. Recently after Hurricane Irene hit, the school together voluntarily went out on their free time to help those whose houses were damaged. Our Mountain Cold Weather Rescue Team was deployed all around the state to help out flooded victims.
Bang for the buck
The cost may be a bit high but in the end so far I have seen has paid off. Many students that graduate I've seen have gone on and become great in their field or profession. Also in most of New England people would respect you if you caught with anything with a Norwich emblem or the class ring. Even around the country many people have either graduated from or attended Norwich in the past years. For me it is amazing to see so many people in the states as well as the world to have the Norwich spirit. Here you are not alone at all.
Tips for prospective students
If you plan on coming to this university as a member of the Corp of Cadets then do not plan on life being easy the first year. It is a big leap from being a normal student to being in the corps, but come here with strong determination. Also keep in mind our motto I Will Try
Great for these types of students
This is a great place for students who are looking for a career in the military and/or law enforcement, those who expect a challenge, those that are determined, those that work hard and those that are willing to push forward against many hard times.
Expect Challenge
Achieve Distinction
-Norwich Forever

Kaitlin from Canton, OH

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
The demands of the 'Corps of Cadet' life and the demands of the classroom have given me the tools that I need for my future. I've learned that hard work reaps the greatest rewards and I know I can do what I set out to do.
Am enjoying being here
It's a lifestyle that is not for everyone, but I have found the greatest 'Family' here at Norwich. I know this new family will be with me forever. This University truly cares for it's students.
Bang for the buck
It is somewhat on the expensive side, but I will be commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant into the United States Marine Corps upon graduating. This has been my goal for many years, and I am now getting my career on track.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to do your research before hand. The 'Corps of Cadet' program can be quite demanding. It is the first step before active duty Military, so don't expect the 'normal' college life.
Great for these types of students
Definitely for those who have chosen a career in the Military. All branches are represented here. You will find that the trivial college problems are not problems at all at Norwich. We are taught to work together and we have a deep respect for all our 'brothers and sisters' in the Corps of Cadet program. A Cadet will not Lie, Cheat or Steal; this is not just a saying, it's a way of life.

Nicholas from Concord, NH

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
NU is a high quality educational school that prides itself on its culture, history and tradition, and ability to extract the highest level of performance from its students. The faculty is genuinely interested in the growth of the students and will go above and beyond to assist those who seek it out. The services and classrooms, as well as the housing, is kept in excellent condition making it a pure joy to attend school here.
Tips for prospective students
Choose either the traditional or cadet lifestyle and be prepared to be living in a fairly remote area of the state of Vermont. There are many extra-cirricular activities to participate in which are extremely helpful in making new friends!
Academic Rigor
I'm enrolled in the Civil Engineering Program. The course subject matter is extremely challenging but thoroughly enjoyable. The course load is very heavy, which at first is tough to get used to, but keeps your study ethic at the top of your game.
Dorm Life
Dorm conditions are fantastic with a new building just constructed and another underway. Even the older dorms (which I stayed in last year) are well maintained and efficiently laid out in relation to the rest of campus, The traditional dorms are co-ed which makes lifestyle conditions enjoyable for relaxing with friends during down times. There are various living arrangements (duals, trips and quads) to choose from starting in your Sophomore year. You can also choose your roommate/s starting then as well!
Food and Dining
Food is served cafeteria style and while there is a large selection to choose from, the quality leaves a lot to desire. There is a Dunkin Donuts on campus. You can also have a microwave and cook in your room if so desired.
What to do for fun
If you are the outdoor-type, you won't lack for activities during your downtime. There are numerous hiking, biking, and swimming opportunities located all around the campus and within a couple minutes of town. The stream fly-fishing is fantastic in this area of Vermont and hunting opportunities are endless. The sports programs and fitness facilities on campus are second to none.
Bang for the buck
NU is an expensive school but if the opportunity for scholarship monies come your way, it lessens the bite. When it comes to your education, the quality you get is incredible and world recognized. NU boasts career placement levels above all other New England schools at the time of graduation which is very important. Most schools that claim similar success rates, are based on placement within a year of graduation and not prior to. This is a huge difference because after all, isn't that the root reason to go to college???!!!!???
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
NU traditions are huge to the culture. Several traditions are unique to the school which I can't tell you. You need to experience them!
Great for these types of students
This school is great for those that want to combine a military lifestyle with educational experience. For those not into the military lifestyle, it's still a great school for those looking for educational challenges, an outdoors lifestyle or rural community.
Clubs and Activities
Sports are an excellent outlet and activity. I play Lacrosse and have found that the camaraderie developed with my teammates transcends the field and continues both on and off campus
Greek Life
I'm not involved in this so I can't offer any insight here
Campus Safety
This campus is extremely safe and I have never felt uneasy even very late at night.

joseph from piscataway, nj

a past student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
the professors here are outstanding, and the small class size allows me to get any questions i have answered so that i thoroughly understand the material.
Am enjoying being here
Being in the Corps of Cadets is an experience like no other, you get really close with your platoon and other friends you meet and you'll take everything you've learned here into the future with you, it's definitely great being here.
Bang for the buck
you'll get valuable leadership experience here at norwich that you won't get at any other civilian university. additionally, having small class sizes allows you one-on-one time with your professors, which is infinitely worth the tuition in and of itself.
Tips for prospective students
if you choose to come here and be a part of the corps, be fully committed. go in with the mentality that you will not quit, not back down, and you'll do great.
Great for these types of students
those who want a structured, disciplined lifestyle in a great academic environment. (corps of cadets)

Jared from Morgantown, WV

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I will not rate this just because I have not been put through a course yet and I do not want any of my information to mislead you. However, in my overnight stay I must say that while sitting through some of the classes that you are probably going to learn everything you need to know to enjoy a successful career.
Will enjoy being here
Norwich is my dream come true. If you are looking for physical and academical intensity for at least 90 percent of the time you will love it. If your idea of a college is slacking off and partying it up you had better seek a 4 year home elsewhere.
Bang for the buck
Norwich University is surprisingly a normal price for an out of state college. Through my eyes being the best military college it is worth every penny. Especially considering if you apply before Nov. 15 you will get a good sum of money in institutional scholarships. Plus if you are seeking a commission like me, they (your captain in the ROTC), will fight for a full 3 to 3.5 year scholarship for you so long as you do well academically and act like you want to be there.
Tips for prospective students
I have only done an overnight stay here at Norwich University. I must say that you have to have a certain mind set just to survive here. I highly recommend that you do an overnight stay to see what life is like here first hand. I have never seen anything like it. To keep it short and sweet you will either fall in love with it or you will learn to hate every single second you stay there. (Corps of Cadets). Also, ask all of the questions you can think of.
Great for these types of students
Norwich University from my prospective is perfect for students who are seeking a commission into the armed forces. I view Norwich as being more intense physically and almost academically as the academies. If you want to better yourself, layout your future, and you will do almost anything to get there Norwich University might just be for you.

Katrina

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Norwich University is a small, beautiful, historical campus split down the center: One half is civilian, the other is the corps of cadets. The classes are small with about 20 students and the work is challenging, but very rewarding. The University has a large price tag, but a lot of benefits accompany it.
Tips for prospective students
Get your finances set asap! It's much easier to deal with issues when you're not in a time crunch!
Academic Rigor
The academics are difficult, but there are many places for support including the AAC. Plus, the professors are always willing to help and know the students by name!
Dorm Life
The barracks are renovated regularly, and the civilian dorm is brand new. There are always things going on around campus, but it is secluded enough to allow students to concentrate on academics!
Food and Dining
The chow hall as we call it is the nicest I've seen for a school of this size.
What to do for fun
There are many sports to participate in (or observe), many clubs, fun events held by them, and movies on campus every Friday and Saturday.
Bang for the buck
It's just below $50,000 to attend Norwich, but the alumni are great when it comes to helping out graduates find jobs!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Rooks, or unrecognized cadets have to walk in the gutter everywhere they go! It's fun to see them progress throughout the year!
Great for these types of students
Norwich is great for those interested in the military, or the military lifestyle. If you want to participate, join the corps! If you just want to sit back and observe, join the civilian side. Either way, you'll experience it!
Clubs and Activities
There are so many options for anybody, especially for such a small campus!
Campus Safety
This campus is so safe. There are always RA's and First Sergeants (basically the same thing for each lifestyle) running around, and NU Security is all over the place.

Aliah from Windsor, MA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
smaller university with a home-like feeling. great education and leadership building opportunities. international studies and athletic opportunitites are available for prospective students
Tips for prospective students
campus is a military majority. civilian students average 40%. should be open minded when attending the campus
Academic Rigor
small classes that are very challenging and competitive. i am enrolled as a sports medicine major. classes are interesting and require self motivation while thinking outside the box.
Dorm Life
i am a civillian student. campus and dorms are emaculate. being a small campus the dorm life is very home-like. get out and explore.
Food and Dining
excellent dining choices available
What to do for fun
burlington shopping, ben and jerry's, cabot stores
Bang for the buck
excellent with scholarships
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
military based. civilians are required to follow and respect certain military rules
Great for these types of students
highly motivated, open-minded, competitive, leaders
Clubs and Activities
variety of clubs and varsity sports
Campus Safety
excellent