Southwestern Illinois College Reviews
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Alexander from Waterloo, IL
12/17/2009Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.
2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 1 of 25
Categories Comments Bang for the buck Southwestern Illinois College has a great price of tuition, and is the best choice for starting out your college career, and their education is of the same caliber of the more expensive universities.
Will enjoy being here Southwestern Illinois College has a great campus, with a library and full internet access, which is great for your downtime between classes. Also they are next to a great strip mall, so you will definitely have fun between classes as well as during your classes with their great staff.
Will learn a lot Southwestern Illinois College has a great faculty and staff, and the counselors there are very helpful in getting you what you need to be successful in college.
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Eric from Troy, IL
06/03/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 2 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety There are police EVERYWHERE
Greek Life None that I am aware of.
Great for these types of students Slackers.
Bang for the buck It's cheap and easy so I am just doing my Gen. Eds.
Food and Dining Its a small cafeteria in one building. Reminds me of high school lunch room.
Dorm Life No Dorms.
Academic Rigor Exceedingly easy hardly any effort on my part.
Tips for prospective students Good for Gen. Eds. Not much else.
In three sentences I give Southwestern Illinois College a C. It's a low cost junior college but I am not challenged and the classes are way to easy.
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Katie from Collinsville, IL
01/27/2010Reviewer is A current student here.
3 of 25
Categories Comments Great for these types of students I cannot just start naming out types of students that Southwestern Illinois College is great for because this college is simply great for everyone!
Tips for prospective students The only problem I have ever faced at Southwestern Illinois College is parking. More students attend school in the late moring to early afternoon hours so parking can get tough so make sure to get there early enough to find a spot.
Bang for the buck I think Southwestern College is deffinantly worth the money! With the great teachers that are always helpful and really know what they are doing to the library that is always friendly and easy to get around to the FREE tutoring! How many colleges offer free tutoring? Not many that's a fact.
Am enjoying being here I enjoy being at Southwestern Illinois College a lot. The library has plenty of computers and plenty of chairs if you want to read or tables if you want to study. It is always a pleasure to be at school where everything is close by. The college has three buildings and they are very close to each other which makes it easy to get to your class on time.
Am learning a lot Southwestern Illinois College has employed very smart and accredited teachers that really know their material. They offer a lot of different resources and learning strategies for the hundreds of students.
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Brittany from O'FALLON, IL
05/29/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
4 of 25
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Anyone trying to get there degree or GED.
Tips for prospective students Just have to watch how many classes you take because you have a limit amount of loans you can get for the whole year, so if you are transferring from another school in the middle of the school year then you need to know how much those previous classes were and subtract it from the loan amount you are able to get here. The financial aid office will tell you how much that is though. Pass the placement test in all parts so you dont have to take the basic classes, but if you take the Math 97 class you will most likely get into a higher math class in other schools if you plan to transfer to a 4year college, but you have to pass the class. Make sure you look into what programs they have if you plane on trying to get your degree here they might not have all of them. Thats all I have for now.
Bang for the buck Its cheaper which is good.
Am enjoying being here I know many students that I went to high school with. I am getting along with everyone and meeting new people.
Am learning a lot I have learned how to study many different types of art work and get feelings and things out of it. I know how to put my own meaning to it.
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Anonymous
08/29/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
5 of 25
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Students who have families Students who are easily distracted and shouldn't live on dorm. Student's who can't afford an expensive college. Student's who want a good education!
Tips for prospective students Dear senior high school students, As many new freshmen students begin their classes in college they are beginning to learn the truth about college. It is NOT all about parties and hanging out with friends. As fun as all of that sounds it is not what college is all about. True college students get up early in the morning and go to class instead of sleeping in late because they went to a party the night before. A good student will not procrastinate to do their homework and will always be prepared for their classes. Students have to learn when to say no to partying and yes to success. When all of your friends are out parting and you are at home studying you will feel as if you're being stupid and wasting your time, but in reality you are not only saving money and time, you are one step closer to achieving your dream. The rate of students that drop out of college is alarming and it is continuing to rise. Don't let you be another statistic! Finish college first and then party on your breaks! Be smart, be safe and take care of your priorities first! Good luck!
Bang for the buck Compared to all of the schools I was looking at SWIC has AMAZING prices for classes. Books on the other hand, I would research some websites that sell textbooks!
Am enjoying being here Being at SWIC is quite enjoyable. It is close to home and I don't live on campus. Living on campus is a good experience, but I do believe it can lead to bad consequences and habits. It's more distracting when you are living in a dorm with other people and it's easier to put off homework. Plus the people at SWIC are usually very helpful and nice!
Am learning a lot I am learning a lot more than I expected. Just because SWIC is a local college does not mean it is a bad place to go. For one, SWIC is very cheap compared to all the other colleges. I know it is not smart to base what school you will go to based solely on finances, but it is great fact to know. On top of that, SWIC has great programs and extracurriculars and so far my experiences with teachers have been great. You just have to make sure you speak up and ask a question whenever you have one because they won't know if you need help if you don't say something and someone else probably has the same question as you do!
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Margarita from Fairmont City, IL
09/28/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
6 of 25
Categories Comments Great for these types of students SWIC is a great school for all. as long as you are looking for a school to learn and understand your major you will be fine there. and SWIC have a campus close by everyone. I have been to Belleville and Granite City and loved them all and they even have classes in the local high schools. There is alwasy something going on at SWIC if it games or family nights or anything.
Tips for prospective students College is a one time and a life time so dont sit around, get up and do something with your self. SWIC has a lot of classes for everyone. Here you will meet people from all over, classes are small so everyone has a chance to learn better. Teachers are more hands on then anything. I have not had a bad experience at SWIC and it only my second year. All I can say be on time, dont miss class , and always have your materials. I hope you enjoy SWIC as much as I have.
Bang for the buck class are fair in price, and if you have trouble with money they are willing to help you out with something
Am enjoying being here I have enjoyed my time there, everyone really nice and willing to learn
Am learning a lot lesson are really all hands on, teachers will make sure everyone understands before going on.
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Preston from Belleville, IL
12/16/2011Reviewer is A current student here.
7 of 25
Categories Comments Great for these types of students Anyone.
Tips for prospective students Make study GROUPS! very important in the first few week to grab some people from each class to improve yours and their grades.
Bang for the buck Inexpensive, although make sure you actual NEED the books for a class before you buy them. I used previous year math books and didn't buy some English books because i didn't need them. (I got A's in all my classes.)
Am enjoying being here It is a nice campus, but I have had a major hiccup in my being here. The main problem being with the metro running through the campus it can bring in people who are not meant to be there. I myself have gotten my book-bag stolen when i had it right next to me, much to my despair. So watch your crap when you go here.
Am learning a lot Currently I am an Engineer student who plans on transferring next fall semester. But so far the first semester in terms of learning has been great. A lot of the teachers are friendly and willing to work with you if you show them you want to learn.
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Heidi from Scott AFB, IL
01/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
8 of 25
Categories Comments Clubs and Activities they have a whole listing of clubs offered, which college activities should supply for you.
Food and Dining good, expensive, but convenient. they will frequently have a taco bar or fajita bar set up. in the fall and spring the college activities office holds a free lunch for all students (as long as they present their photo id). it consists of hot dog or hamburger, chips, a drink, and a cookie.
Dorm Life no on campus living.
Academic Rigor depending on the classes one takes, the rigor varies. however, each class i've taken requires at least 3 hours of study time during the week.
Tips for prospective students register as early as possible and make an appointment with an advisor instead of waiting for the walk in list. go to office hours of professors if you need help. take advantage of the success center and tutoring options offered.
In three sentences i have had my eyes opened to community college through attending swic, which offers a variety of courses in many departments. my classes have been no larger than 30 people and i am known by name by my professors. everyone i've interacted with, from the success center, to registration, to the library, bookstore, cafeteria, and my teachers have all been very pleasant.
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Zachary from Marissa, IL
02/18/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
9 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun the student activities board at swic holds a wide array of things to do on campus. there are movie nights where the school shows movies that are still in theaters and there are plenty of other fun activities that take place throughout the year.
Food and Dining the cafeteria at swic is small with very few selections but there are many fast food and other restaurants only blocks away.
Dorm Life i give swic only one star for dorm life because there are no dorms. swic is a commuter school with plenty of apartments close by to rent.
Academic Rigor there are plenty of classes that can be taken at swic with the level of difficulty based upon the teacher that the student chooses. there are classes that are hard but with the right teacher can be a breeze.
Tips for prospective students if you are going to see a councilor at swic make sure you arrive before the councilors offices open up because they have a tendency to become packed quickly. a 2 hour wait is not uncommon.
In three sentences southwestern illinois college is a great college because it is cheap and is in close range from the st. louis area. if someone is trying to get their general education classes out of the way without paying extra at a four year university southwestern illinois college would be a good choice for them. many universities accept classes taken at southwestern illinois college for full credit.
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Janice from Shiloh, IL
02/24/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
10 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun st. louis is only a metro link ride away. students are entitled to ride public transportation for free!
Tips for prospective students use all the available resources the college has to offer. ask questions. read everything you can.
In three sentences great education for a great price. faculty and staff have a strong desire for students to succeed. educated, helpful professors.
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Jeremiah from Shiloh, IL
03/11/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
11 of 25
Categories Comments Food and Dining the food is slightly overpriced, but it is always well-prepared.
Academic Rigor depending on the classes you take, you can find some excellent instructors who will challenge your academic abilities to the max. there are also several classes that can be treated as easy a classes if you don't invest any time or effort into them, but they are also valuable learning sources if you spend time trying to learn.
Tips for prospective students there are excellent tutors available in the success centers, if you ever need help drop by and one of them will be more than happy to help you. the student tutors are knowledgeable, friendly, and always helpful.
In three sentences excellent tutoring services. knowledgeable and personable instructors. very affordable.
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Tracey from Centreville, IL
04/03/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
12 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus does have a strong public safety presence at all times. You don't have to worry about any safety issues.
Great for these types of students First time students.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The campus has an excellent book store.
What to do for fun They have a college activitiy center that all students have access to. With everything from theater, to drama club, even to group bible studies.
Food and Dining They have a very diverse selection of food with very affordable prices. They also have different varieties of snacks such as potato chips, fruit cups, pudding cups, as well as a healthy choice of soups, salads, and sandwiches.
Dorm Life They do not have dorms on this campus.
Academic Rigor You are required to keep an average grade of at least a C average. The academic rigor is very demanding. The instructors expect you to do the work.
Tips for prospective students Meet with a counselor before choosing your major. Don't major in anything you won't enjoy. Plan your schedule wisely. Don't bite off more than you can chew.
In three sentences This is one of the best two year institutions a beginning college student can attend. They have excellent instructors and inavaluable resources that you won't find anywhere else.
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happy student
05/08/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
13 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety Public Safety does their best to keep the campus secure and students safe.
Clubs and Activities They offer an array of clubs an activities including but not limited to; Phi Theta Kappa, Student Leadership Group, College Activities Board, Peer mentors, TRIO Student Support Services, Mathematics Club, Anime Club and Astronomy Club.
Great for these types of students SWIC is great for all types of students; from traditional to non traditional returning students.
Bang for the buck SWIC is a great option for those wanting to invest in their education without accruing debt.
What to do for fun Since there are multiple campuses in different cities, there is something for everyone. One campus is close to a mall and another is by movie theaters. SWIC is also close to St. Louis which provides for lots of entertainment!
Food and Dining Not every campus has a cafeteria, but they do make up for that by having local restaurants provide food options throughout the week.
Academic Rigor When taking the non basic courses like Organic Chemistry or Calculus, the classes are harder, which I expect they would be at any institution.
Tips for prospective students Register early, if classes are not full they are closed quickly so make sure you register as soon as possible. Also fill out any financial aid forms right away and complete your FAFSA asap!
In three sentences SWIC is a great value to the many students that attend. I have gotten a high quality education at a cost that I can afford without going into debt. SWIC goes above and beyond to help its students succeed.
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Ryan from East Carondelet, IL
06/26/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
14 of 25
Categories Comments Tips for prospective students My tip is to sustain your integrity in any college.
In three sentences This college is inexpensive, but liberal. This college is able to earn the general credits necessary for a transfer towards a four-year university. This college is also great for the person who is desiring an academic education.
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Danae from Granite City, IL
09/07/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
15 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun The Student Activities Board holds weekly activities.
Food and Dining During the lunch hours, occasionally, the school will bring in a catering restaurant. And there are vending machines and a coffee shop on campus.
Dorm Life There is no on-campus housing.
Academic Rigor Classes at Southwestern Illinois college hold to the standards of Academic Rigor for the state.
In three sentences Southwestern Illinois College is a great college to attend for completing general studies in one's college plan. Students and teachers alike are there to accomplish all of the learning goals without extra hassle. The campus is small/medium size with a comfortable feel.
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Annonymous
09/27/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
16 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus seems to be very secure even at the back of the parking lot I usually see them patrolling.
Clubs and Activities We do have sports and a gym here but the only club that I know of is Phi Theta Kappa which is an honor society for students who maintain a 3.5 cummulative GPA or better. Phi Theta Kappa is great especially for students planning to transfer because it helps students get scholarships.
Great for these types of students This location is great for all types of students.
Bang for the buck This school has a success center which offers free tutors for any subject. We have a lot of computers for the students to use located in the success center, library and cyber lounge. The Belleville campus also offers discounted daycare for children 3 years and older who are potty trained. They also have a program called OWL where you enter any written assignments that you get assigned and can get help making your paper better. I feel that $95.00 per credit hour is not too much when all this comes with it too.
What to do for fun I can't really rate my school in this area. I mainly go to school and come home and do homework or go to work.
Food and Dining There is not a lot to chose from when it comes to dining aside from fast food and one chinese restaurant which is pretty good. The campus does have a cafeteria however, the food is not the best and the price is more than I would like to pay for mediocre food.
Dorm Life There are no dorms here it is a small two year college.
Academic Rigor Most courses are academically rigorous but, the workload is not too much. Definately read the description of all of your courses if you plan on taking on a lot of classes to make sure that you will be able to handle the work from all classes before enrolling.
Tips for prospective students Talk to a guidance councelor when you apply to have them help with making your first schedule and get your fafsa filled out as soon as possible.
In three sentences I would give this college five stars out of five. The campus is easy to find your way around, students and faculty are friendly. Above all I believe the course work is just right, not too much nor too little.
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Jeannetta from Belleville, IL
10/09/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
17 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety The campus has it's own security force.
Greek Life None that I know of.
Clubs and Activities I think they have them, but I don't participate.
Great for these types of students Great for transfer students, nursing students, and students looking for certain certificates.
Bang for the buck I recommend this school to anyone looking to save money and get a good education.
What to do for fun They offer many activities for students throughout the year.
Food and Dining There is a cafeteria and cafe that can be a bit pricey. Walmart and several food establishments are a crossed the street, but it is a busy four lane highway to cross.
Dorm Life There is no dorm life here.
Academic Rigor Not too bad!
Tips for prospective students Go here before transferring.
In three sentences This is a great overall school to attend before transferring to a university. I've had great teachers and overall experience in my classes face-to-face and online. The cost of tuition is affordable.
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Elijah from Waterloo, IL
10/31/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
18 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety officers on duty, except Red Bud campus
Clubs and Activities Diverse choices
Great for these types of students Starting out, poor financial situation, not sure where you're going
Bang for the buck Community college is still really expensive.
What to do for fun CAB, holds events on a regular basis along other student organizations.
Food and Dining Could be worse, but certainly room for improvement, more options, cheaper, etc.
Academic Rigor As expected of community college.
Tips for prospective students Talk to the school's counselor for which you plan to transfer, if applicable. Consider car pooling and joining student organizations like CAB to lower tuition.
In three sentences An ideal to start your secondary education. The counselors could be improved. The atmosphere is overall pleasant.
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Jennifer from IL
11/12/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
19 of 25
Categories Comments Bang for the buck It's pretty inexpensive and you get such a high quality of education.
What to do for fun The College Activities Center keeps the whole campus updated for events, and A LOT of them are super fun!
Food and Dining The food is pretty good and there's a decent variety. The prices are just a little questioning.
Dorm Life It's a small campus, so there aren't any dorms that I know of...
Academic Rigor The academic rigor is based upon the classes you take. Some classes are downright easy while others require an extensive amount of time outside of class to just pass the course. Be aware and you'll be fine.
Tips for prospective students Learn where your classes are, stay vigilant in class, and talk to the professors if you need any help.
In three sentences SWIC is a comfortable and friendly campus where it's easy to navigate and the faculty is ready to help. Professors are kind and are more than willing to set aside time for a student if the need arises. Every kind of student attends here and it's a great place to hang out with friends.
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Matthew from Lebanon, IL
11/19/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
20 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun Anything
Food and Dining The food is a little bit over priced, but the sitting and dinning portion of it is awesome I can go here to get homework done if needed.
Dorm Life There are no dorms.
Tips for prospective students Just have fun and they will be willing to make sure that you strive to be your best.
In three sentences I think the collage is amazing, they have everything and all the classes i need to get me started. The food is a little bit overpriced, but i don't mind. Lastly they are very concerned about my needs to succeed.
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Lauren from Waterloo, IL
12/29/2012Reviewer is A current student here.
21 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety Saw someone arrested so i feel safe with the campus security.
Great for these types of students any student who is paying for college themself and wants a good education.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus Jimmy Johns and Easy's chinese buffet are across the street. sooo worth it!
Bang for the buck Not too expensive.
What to do for fun Cyber lounge has an Xbox. Some days they have activites for the students such as a real life angry birds game.
Food and Dining Little pricey.
Academic Rigor Little more challenging than high school but not much.
Tips for prospective students Bring your lunch, cafe is a bit pricey.
In three sentences I have had a wonderful education so far. The teachers are super awesome, and sometimes easy. They will help you whenever you need it. Great atmosphere.
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Taylor from Fairview Heights, IL
01/31/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
22 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun There are many different clubs and activities that college student could get involved in. All these activities are a great way to get to know many different people and make friends.
Food and Dining Southwestern Illinois College has a coffee shop and a newly addition is an amazingly, beautiful new Starbucks. It is college student friendly and is a very nice addition for a quick caffeine stop before a long class period.
Dorm Life At Southwestern Illinois College they are newly making a dorm life for the students. Having a place to be away from home but still be on campus will be a great addition to the campus.
Academic Rigor Southwestern Illinois College has the top of the line teachers working at the Belleville campus. They are there to help students achieve their goals and see them progress in life. We have very friendly teachers here at Southwestern Illinois College.
Tips for prospective students I would give tips to students to always have some time of communication skill with your teachers, even if you are not the type to ask questions or might be shy and quiet. Allowing yourself to talk to all your teachers is a great way to keep track of grades and assignments.
In three sentences Southwestern Illinois College is a great place to learn and to earn your degree. They have amazing teachers that take time out of their day to help the students directly with anything they are having trouble with. The staff and college itself is a great place to be and meet new people.
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Brandon from Belleville, IL
02/04/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
23 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety I have never felt threatened while on campus, and it is a Community College so it gets all walks of life.
Greek Life None
Clubs and Activities It's clubs and activities are growing, and seem to be trying to do more on campus.
Great for these types of students Budget Concious
Bang for the buck Can not beat the price of $104 a credit hour including some of the fees.
Food and Dining It has a Starbucks now!
Dorm Life No dorms.
Academic Rigor Great for those who may have struggled in High School, but for those academically gifted class may seem dull and boring.
Tips for prospective students Begin at Southwestern Illinois College to save money, then move on to another University.
In three sentences Great education for the price. Some teachers are not up to par, while others are amazing. Seems to be improving on all grounds though.
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Esther from Collinsville, IL
02/10/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
24 of 25
Categories Comments What to do for fun Cyber Lounge Cafeteria Star Bucks
Food and Dining Food is really good.
Dorm Life There are no dorms.
In three sentences It's a good school. Professors are well educated, very nice and helpful. Best of all its cheap.
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Alex from Columbia, IL
02/20/2013Reviewer is A current student here.
25 of 25
Categories Comments Campus Safety Public Security can be seen easily walking/driving around campus and checking up on situations.
Greek Life I am a member of Pi-Theta-Kappa.
Clubs and Activities I am not associated with clubs or activities on campus, but the main student association provides food and drinks to students occasionally and they have monthly or weekly events.
Great for these types of students Great for those who want an inexpensive education in a midsized town and small class sizes. Almost all of my classes have 10 to 15 students. Very few classes have over 20 - those are classes in halls or large class rooms.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus I do not know of any, although, the parking lots were not designed for easy access to doors; one always has to walk a slight distance to get to a door.
Bang for the buck Classes are CHEAP. About 100$ per credit hour.
What to do for fun Explore Belleville. Also, there is the Metro-Link train station on campus which links you to St. Louis instantly. Free train pass is included with classes.
Food and Dining Fairly expensive on campus. There is a Starbucks and cafeteria.
Academic Rigor Liberal Arts classes are easy, while maths and especially sciences are more challenging.
Tips for prospective students Be sure to apply for graduation on time, and do not wait till the last minuet for counseling for any issues at all. Double check and triple check to make sure your classes can/will transfer as you want them to.
In three sentences The classes are fairly easy and teachers are understanding of student needs. The facilities are very nice; they have a brand new edition to their Liberal Arts building which is impressive.
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