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Central College (Central) Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Central College reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Central College. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Central College reviews, or contribute your own Central College review if you're a current student there.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Kailey from Ankeny, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I have learned valuable lessons in each of the classes I have taken, even my non-major classes! The professors really care about you. They will take the time out of their day to make sure you really understand what is going on in class. Most classes also have a S.I. (student instructer). The student instructers have taken the class and have done well in it. They can tell you the ins and outs of that specific class and professor. However, unlike the larger colleges, the student instructers don't actually teach the class. They hold study sessions and are available for answering questions or tutoring outside of class. So really, you are getting the information from the class from two different sources!
    Am enjoying being here

    There has never been a time that I wished I was not a Central student! I actually find myself missing it when I'm at home. There are so many different activities to join and ways to meet friends. A lot of new students worry about finding friends but they really shouldn't. There is a myriad of clubs, sports teams, and musical groups so there shouldn't be a problem finding someone with similar interests. Even the atmosphere of Central is enjoyable. A lot of big schools don't have a very good ambiance but Central has a homey feel. The campus is very beautiful and always clean. The dorms are very nice and comfortable.
    Bang for the buck

    Central is a private college so it is a little pricey, but I really feel like I'm getting my money's worth. The food is really good! Much better than the highschool cafeteria! The classses and professors really challenge you to do your best.
    Tips for prospective students

    I would reccommend that a prospective student should always visit any college they are considering. There is no better way to know if you like the college than to visit. This way you can see if the college is really 'you.' Central even lets you stay overnight with a current student. My former roommate and I have hosted a few prospective students and it's always fun! Some prospective students are turned off by the fact that Pella (where Central is located) is a small town. Even though it's small, Pella has a lot of heart. There is always something going on in town and on campus and if you really crave the big city activities- Des Moines is only about an hour away.
    Great for these types of students

    Hard partyers will probably not do so well at Central. There are not a whole lot of wild partys where everyone ends up making quite a few bad decisions. If you want to actually walk away from your college experience with knowledge of more than the label of a can of Bud Light, Central is for you! Central also has great sports teams, so talented athletes who actually want playing time and a great fan base will love Central. There are also many opportunities for music, art, and theater. Students who love to get involved, learn a lot, and have tons of fun should definitely check out Central College!

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Sarah from Iowa

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors really try to make sure that students get help If I need it. Their is free tutoring and the professors are always willing to have students stop by their office with questions. The goal is not to just get through the class, the staff really wants you to understand what you are learning.
    Am enjoying being here

    Central has a great atmosphere. People are very friendly and there are always school sponsored activities going on. Things like movie nights, comedians, hypnotists etc. It is a very personable school that feels like a home away from home.
    Bang for the buck

    Central is a private school, so the initial price tag is a little higher. However Central offers a variety of scholarships and will also help any way they can with financial aid. In the end I payed less to go here than a state school.
    Tips for prospective students

    When looking for a college, make sure you check out a variety of schools. You want to have the best fit possible. You are spending the next 4 years of your life somewhere so make sure that it is a place you can feel comfortable and that will serve your educational needs. Go to a place where your not just tolerated but celebrated.
    Great for these types of students

    Central is a good school if you are looking for a private school in a smaller town. The student body is not very big, but big enough to have a variety of people. If you are looking to have a great education in a close knit environment, central is the school for you,

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Kim from Winterset, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I like the liberal education that is offered. Not only do they require each student to take well rounded classes, but it is a great way to learn things that you may overlook. Also, the classes are very thorough and professors are very much accessible if you need help or have questions.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love being at Central. The first three or four days on campus, there are a lot of opportunities for meeting people, which was my biggest concern. The classes, for the most part, are relatively small and it is easy to meet people in the class or on your floor. There are also a lot of activities going on around campus which you can be apart of.
    Bang for the buck

    Although this is a private school and it seems to have a large price tag, remember that choosing a private school has it's advantages. They seem to offer more money than a state school would. When it cam down to it, I am paying less than I would have to go to Iowa State University. And because it is small, it doesn't lack personal touch. My professors know me and I know them. I feel like they really care here and they look out for the students.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't look at the price first. It's all about how you feel. Consider if you can see yourself here, then decide. Really look around. There is beauty in the campus. Beauty in the nature from the trees in the fall to the squirrels and beauty in the people. Staying overnight in a dorm is a great experience also. If you get the chance, go for it. You get to see how the students interact on campus.
    Great for these types of students

    Central is great for everyone. The athletics here are great and the science facilities are very up to date. Just in time for the 2009-2010 school year, a new Education-Psychology building was put up. It is so nice. There is a big sustainability movement on campus in which everyone is involved. Not to mention all the clubs and groups! This is truly a place that anyone and everyone can belong.

  • Breanne from Pella, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Many students attend Central because of the friendly students that already go there. It has a full-circle effect because the students that apply are friendly themselves. Everyone, including faculty and staff, go out of their way to help students.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to check out campus for yourself. A college can look very different on a computer screen than in real life. Also, when you apply for any college, be one of the firsts to send in deposits; some things are done on a first come, first serve basis.
    Academic Rigor

    The professors are always available for questions because Central is a smaller school. The classes are demanding, some harder than others, but if you put in the effort, friends and teachers can make the classes really enjoyable.
    Dorm Life

    There are five dorms available for freshman to choose from. There are all male, all female, and coed living options for whatever people prefer. Also, the styles of living range from single rooms, triple rooms, double rooms, and suite-style.
    Food and Dining

    The main cafeteria is Central Market which is open all week during certain hours. Otherwise, students can go to Grand Central Station or the Geisler Cafe for snacks or light meals when Central Market is closed.
    What to do for fun

    Pella is located closely to Red Rock Lake and many students make campfires and grill out in the area. The Pella aquatic center is also free for Central students. Otherwise there is the bowling ally and movie theater.
    Bang for the buck

    Central provides services that help the transition to college life run smoothly. All the teachers work with you and care about how you are doing personally. Even the president of the college will sit down with students at lunch to talk about how their experience is going.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    In the heart of Central's campus is a little pond that students celebrating their birthday are thrown into. Some kids hide in various places to avoid their ponding but most kids get thrown in and then proceed to hug every member that took part of this tradition.
    Great for these types of students

    Central is great for any student who may be nervous for going to a big university. The campus is friendly and everything is on a smaller scale so there is more one-on-one attention.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are many activities for all sorts of students ranging from all sports to different music ensembles and clubs. Some unusual clubs we have at Central include Rugby, Sustainability, Flying Pans Steel Drum, Bridge, and many many more.
    Greek Life

    Greek life is on a much smaller scale than bigger universities however there are still many groups here at Central. The full list includes Alpha Delta Epsilon, Alpha Zeta Chi, Beta Kappa Epsilon, Greek Council, Phi Delta Tau, Psi Sigma Tau, Sigma Phi Omega, Theta Kappa Alpha, and Zeta Upsilon.
    Campus Safety

    Pella is a smaller town and there are not many safety concerns for this college. I have never heard of anyone calling campus security because they feel unsafe, but if you do feel uncomfortable, campus security is available 24/7 to escort you where ever you need to be.

  • Jeanette from Pella, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Central College is a great place for all types of students; whether with an undecided or decided major. Overall, they offer a wide variety of help and support for all types of issues. It's a place to learn, grow and express your future-self.
    Academic Rigor

    Depending on your major you'll have a pretty steady academic rigor. You'll definitely be challenged but professors are fun and flexible.
    Dorm Life

    You can get any type of living life-style depending what you want. If you want a loud dorm you can find it but you can also find a dorm that is quite so you can get studying down.
    Food and Dining

    Central offers a lot of different options for food. There is a Cafe, for coffee and muffins, Grand Central Station for burgers and fries and there is also the main facility, Central Market, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Campus Safety

    Not only is the campus safe but the entire community/town is as well.

  • Caitlin from Marengo, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Central is great! The education is beyond wonderful. Take advantage of every opportunity.

  • Rachael from Lakewood, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    I love Central college mostly because each professor has such a passion for the subjects they teach. Their enthusiasm and passion for their subject encourages you to be just as excited about what you are learning from them.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definitely start with your core classes and then more on to the ones required for you major. Also Getting to know your professors is a good idea just because it makes your experience here that much more fun.
    Academic Rigor

    Central college certainly has some pretty challenging classes, but the school does provide a lot of help to those who seek it.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life it pretty cool the majority of the people who come here are pretty nice.
    Food and Dining

    I'm severely lactose intolerant and they don't really provide a lot of options for me or my roommate who has celiacs disease( gluten intolerant). She is off the meal plan and on food stamps so she can afford to buy food and I am hoping to follow here lead.
    What to do for fun

    Sometime we go to the movies or bowling or we drive up to Des Moines to go to the mall. When We don't have money ( which is the majority of the time) we go for walk or runs, play games, watch are own movies, go to the school cafe for coffee.
    Bang for the buck

    I think you pretty much get you monies worth.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    We having a lemming race every fall semester around Halloween. Everyone dresses up in costumes and we run through the campus and jump in the pound. It's pretty exciting and fun to see all the different kinds of costumes.
    Great for these types of students

    There are all kinds of differnt personalities and people here. Well This is a small school so Central is great for students seeking small schools.
    Clubs and Activities

    Most have to do with sustainability as we are striving to be a green campus. However there are some that raise awareness of world issues, and then of course the sports clubs.
    Greek Life

    I am in a sorority and I love it. We have 5 social sororities/fraternities on campus and the rest are academic or major based. I love the sorority I'm in and it's a great way to meet new friend and different kinds of people.
    Campus Safety

    This campus is very safe I haven't seen any bad incidences here since I have been.

  • Darci from Wellman, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    This college has a beautiful, easily accessible campus. The professors are very helpful. The other students and people on campus are very nice and welcoming.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't procrastinate
    Study hard
    Get involved

    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is great. You meet many different people and make lots of new friends.
    Food and Dining

    The food and dining at Central College could be a little better. They have a wide variety but the menu is very repetitive. The food altogether just isn't very good.
    What to do for fun

    There are many on campus activities that you can get involved in. There are sports, clubs, and other extra curriculars such as choir.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    One tradition that most people don't look forward to is getting thrown into the pond on their birthday.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are many different clubs and activities that try to involve students.
    Greek Life

    Getting involved with a Fraternity or a Sorority is not only a good experience and fun, it also looks good on a job application.
    Campus Safety

    I think the campus is a very safe environment. The people are so friendly and the community around the campus is so friendly you really don't have to worry about anything happening to you.

  • Jordan from Clive, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    small college where you can easily make the closest friends you've ever had. you get support from the community, professors, faculty, alumni-everyone wants you to succeed.
    Tips for prospective students

    take college classes in high school.
    What to do for fun

    can party if that's what you're into, but there a lot of students who don't. not too far from des moines or iowa city for city life. movies, dining, and bowling are all in town. the college also brings in a lot of entertainers like comedians.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    get thrown into the pond on your birthday
    Great for these types of students

    student-athletes, students wanting to go to a christian school
    Clubs and Activities

    whatever you want to get involved with, you can find.
    Greek Life

    small but exists.

  • Alicia from Webster City, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    central college is a good college, but it is very expensive since it is a private college.
    Tips for prospective students

    tips for prospective students are to go to class, study regularly, and do the homework.
    Academic Rigor

    the classes are hard, but if a person studies they are manageable.
    Dorm Life

    the dorms are good with a suite like style, so only four people have to share a bathroom.
    Food and Dining

    the food is okay, but it could use a more variety.
    What to do for fun

    what is fun to do is go to the comedians on the weekend, go bowling, or even go to the movies.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    one unusual tradition is getting thrown in the pond for your birthday. we also have a lemming race where students dresses up in costumes and race to our pond at the school.
    Great for these types of students

    this school is great for any social student.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are many clubs and activies.
    Campus Safety

    the campus is very safe, becasue it is in a very small town.

  • Carston from Traer, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Central College works with you to allow you to study in different disciplines and they work with the other discipline areas to come up with a workable schedule for you.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't go in thinking your going to only study once subject area. Have a few in mind and take classes from them to help defied what you really want to do with your life.
    Academic Rigor

    This really depends what subject areas you are studying in and who your professors are.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are all nice and they all have different Advantages of living in them over all they are all modern and fun places to be.
    Food and Dining

    The main dinning area as a variety of food every day and gives you lots of choices but most of the time the food is I would conciser to be unhealthy because of cooking for mass quaintly but over all the food is good.
    What to do for fun

    Every weekend their is some type of activity that you do not have to leave campus for. This has been movie night, pizza, athletic tournaments.

  • Stephanie from Hawkeye, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    In the five courses I have taken at Central College so far, I have learned more than I expected. The professors are knowledgeable and helped myself as well as other students learn to our highest capacity. The homework assignments were beneficial, but not to overwhelming. Overall, I was satisfied with my first semester classes.
    Am enjoying being here

    The students and faculty at Central College are friendly and energetic. I have found that my professors and advisers are encouraging and want the best for me. The friends I have made are wonderful--I seem to be making new friends everyday. I love the feeling of walking through campus and knowing that I am in good hands.
    Bang for the buck

    Central is an expensive private college. I believe it is worth every penny. With the loans I invest in and scholarships I earn, I will be able to afford the bills. There is no doubt in my mind that I will earn the degree I desire in four years and will be able to pay off college debt with the ten year plan.
    Tips for prospective students

    Central College is a great college because of the knowledgeable professors, beautiful campus, and the students and faculty. It takes everyone to make a great college. I have grown to be a part of the Central family where I plan to stay and remain a part of for the rest of my life. It is a small college where friends will be made and kept. Central College has a friendly atmosphere and a place where students can meet their biggest goals.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want to learn, make new friends, compete, work together, and have the best four years of their life would love Central College. The classes are small and new friends are made in the classroom. Athletics are a big part of Central and are very well-known. Participation and cooperation are important both in and out of the classroom. Having the right attitude will make the four year go fast, but will create a lot of memories.

  • Kristina from Keokuk, IA

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    On my visit I could tell by the atmosphere that it is a very friendly environment and will be easy to learn a lot at this college.
    Will enjoy being here

    I think I would enjoy being there, it is a beautiful campus.
    Bang for the buck

    It is pretty expensive since it is a private school, but having close ties to your professors is important in my opinion.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you research different school and visit.
    Great for these types of students

    I think it is great for friendly people that love a small town atmosphere

  • David from Altoona, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Being a liberal arts college means that you take classes throughout all areas of academics and become a well-rounded learner. Also, our study abroad programs give you full immersion into foreign languages. I studied in Granada, Spain for a semester and lived with a host that knew no English and I've never had such a great learning experience from it.
    Am enjoying being here

    Central has fun campus events every weekend and is near enough to a large city to have that as an option for fun as well. There are many sports programs and clubs available to be involved in and the whole student body is great to hang with in those settings or in any other.
    Bang for the buck

    Central seems a bit expensive at first but once you take off scholarships it gets down to the tuition of a state school. However, the education and experience that you get here makes the price all worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come for a visit and see our beautiful campus and stay overnight to take in a good sample of the college experience.
    Great for these types of students

    Everyone! No matter whether you're wanting to get serious with studying, play a sport, make lots of friends, just have a few close ones, or whatever, Central is a great place if you like a small-school environment with lots of opportunities.

  • Samantha from Bettendorf, IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The education you can receive at Central College is absolutely phenomenal. It is a liberal arts college there for you get a great sense of knowledge in various different topics.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love being here. Pella is a small town yet big enough to go explore yet get your work done at the same time.
    Bang for the buck

    I pay less at Central than I would if I were to attend a major University.
    Tips for prospective students

    Go visit the campus. When you step on campus you will know if it is right for you. Also if you have questions, ASK! Admissions counselors are so very helpful and there to help along your journey.
    Great for these types of students

    Business, Education, and Exercise Science are our three top majors at this point. We have great programs besides just those as well.

  • Marianna from IA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Most of the class sizes are small and have less than 30 students. The professors are hands on and always willing to answer questions. They are also available during office hours and strongly encourage students to come get help even for the most basic questions.
    Am enjoying being here

    Pella is a small town and it is easy to get board and lonely. Fortunately, the small community makes it easy to make friends. The school also provides a lot of activities to try to make school more enjoyable.
    Bang for the buck

    It is expensive and hard to pay for. However, I have also not had the emotional difficulties that some of my friends have experienced at larger schools.
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply early and get involve. The more you are involved, the easier college will be.
    Great for these types of students

    It is a great school for students from small towns or those who like a small town environment. Expect to have to travel over an hour if you desire city life entertainment. Most of the students are family oriented. It is also great for students that like one on one attention.