See Rock Valley College reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Rock Valley College. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Rock Valley College reviews, or contribute your own Rock Valley College review if you're a current student there.
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2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
Robert from Stillman Valley, IL
Reviewer is A past student here.
Categories Rating Comments Did learn a lot Rock Valley College Provided an excellent learning and preparatory experience, by providing challenging courses with expectations of a four year school. I would definitely recommend this college for learning.
Did enjoy being here Rock Valley College may not offer much in the way of activities, due to it's size, however, the campus itself is very nice, class sizes are generally below 30, and you meet a great deal of people from the community. I personally worked at the tutoring center on campus, and met a great deal of people through it, all of whom I have become great friends with.
Bang for the buck As a community college, Rock Valley College definitely tops the list when it comes to a need for great learning at the right cost. Tuition is based on the credit hours for the course, and it is relatively cheap compared to other schools. You also gain access to the college's resources, including an extensive writing center to help achieve your paper based goals, and a tutoring center free to students where you can be tutored by students who have completed the class with a B or higher, or by instructors.
Tips for prospective students Even though this is a community college, you will be expected to have the skills of a student enrolling in a 4 year school. The instructors will challenge you in many ways, and you should be prepared to know beyond the topic of the class. You should also have sufficient computer skills to use the online services, as well as internet based submissions for papers and other resources.
Great for these types of students Computer skills are a must, so be sure you know how to use it, if you do not, you should enroll in the college's computer sciences (CIS 101) course.
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1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
Hayley from Machesney Park, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences RVC is small and spread out, with multiple locations specializing in different types of courses (one building focuses on computer courses, another on industrial work and the medical field, etc.). The atmosphere is very comfortable, and several locations have a beautiful landscape with plenty of lounging room, both inside and out. While it is comfortable, it is also work-oriented; most people aren't just sitting around waiting for their next class, they're working.
Tips for prospective students The layout of any of the locations can be confusing at first, but there's always a map in the front of the building, and some have signs pointing the way to a certain section for specialized courses (the Stenstrom building has multiple signs pointing the direction to the automotive and welding rooms, since they're sort of hidden away).
Get to know your professor; most professors will help you out more or give you more feedback on work if you're friendly with each other.
Above all else, read the notices! Whether it's an email or a piece of paper on the wall, make sure to read it. There's often some tidbit of info. that could impact your school day (certain stairways or parking lots may be closed, library might close early, date for refunds on books bought from the bookstore is coming up, etc.).Academic Rigor Depending on which class you take with which professor, some classes can be a breeze, even boring, but most classes make you work. Each professor wants you to give it your all, which can be tiring for a full-time student, but ultimately satisfying and definitely worth it to do so.
Dorm Life Rock Valley College has no dorms.
Food and Dining Each location has some sort of vending machine. On top of vending machines strewn around campus, the main campus has a pizza counter and a Subway counter in the Student Center and a coffee and muffin hut in the foyer of the library. Stenstrom Center has a small kitchen with some vending machines, a microwave, a sink, etc.
What to do for fun There are plenty of clubs, groups and teams to join. You can get a gym membership to work out in the lovely gym, or just hang out in one of the many lounging areas, some of which have TVs and/or computers.
Bang for the buck Excellent price, especially for those transferring to a university who want to get in their gen. eds, or any classes you need for your degree that are available at RVC. Prices in the bookstore, however, are not wonderful. Refunds can be given for purchased books at the end of semester or you can rent the books, but buying online is still cheaper.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus The new landscaping was just recently completed on main campus. There is now a set of gravel paths winding around the stream in the center of campus. A huge fountain sprays up next to the main bridge crossing the stream, and benches are set around new plants and trees planted by the paths, all running down to the waterside.
Great for these types of students This is a great college for anyone who likes a small (well-decorated) college with few people and fewer issues. You'd best transfer to a 4-year university to get your degree, but RVC is good for getting in your gen. eds; the professors are friendly and the work made for people who don't slack and want to achieve.
Clubs and Activities There are tons of clubs to join, and they are well-advertised and meet regularly. I hear they are all enthusiastic. I don't hear much about games, either home or away.
Greek Life There are multiple sororities and fraternities in RVC that I am aware of, but I do not belong to one. Occasionally I hear something about them.
Campus Safety Safety is a huge priority for the college. All the crosswalks on main campus have signs near them warning of pedestrians (and some even have small stop signs), certain stairways outside are closed in winter to prevent falls on the ice, the parking lots are plowed and sidewalks salted very early in the morning during winter, and speeding inside college grounds is swiftly dealt with.
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1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
Ashley from Loves Park, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences A great school with wonderful professors. Has an incredibly friendly atmosphere. Plus, the campus is absolutely beautiful!
Tips for prospective students Know which classes you want to take ahead of time, so you can allot your time wisely. Not to mention, that it doesn't hurt to look up your professors on RateMyProfessor.com; It seems silly, but the reviews are usually right!
Academic Rigor It is a community college, so not all of the classes are incredibly difficult, but if you take it seriously, the professors are more than capable of giving you a fantastic education.
Dorm Life There really are no dorms.
Food and Dining There's a Papa Johns and Subway on campus, plus a lot of places deliver to campus. You can find almost anything you want within a ten minute radius.
What to do for fun Depends who you are...
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1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
Kathryn from Rockton, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences i am incredibly impressed with the professors at rvc. not only has my experience been a positive one, but i have actually found this school to have a higher caliber of educators than what i have seen from other colleges i have attended.
What to do for fun there are lots of opportunities to join clubs and different activities on campus. get involved!
Great for these types of students returning to college, professionals looking to further higher education, students just out of high school.
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1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
DeeAnne from South Beloit, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments Am learning a lot I am definitely learning a lot here at Rock Valley College. I already know my major, but I am currently finishing up my general education classes. I like that the first two years basically has to be general education classes because it allows me to learn about subjects I never would have thought about taking. I have learned about all sorts of different fields and have even talked to/ learned from passionate individuals. There is even a free tutoring center ran by qualified students and teachers that help with all subjects, even art!
Am enjoying being here I will never and have never regretted making my decision to go to Rock Valley College. Because it is a community college I have met a lot of new people from my own town and towns around mine. Every new semester opens up more doors to meet new and exciting students and teachers. The teachers here are very passionate about what they do. They actually enjoy teaching! The classes are never more than thirty students, which is nice for a better student-teacher relationship.
Bang for the buck Like many students at Rock Valley College, I had to make the decision to come here because of financial reasons. Best decision ever! I am a huge bargain hunter, and Rock Valley College is one of those schools that offers all the classes anyone could need with an affordable price tag! The bookstore allows students to buy, sell back, and even rent textbooks. Parking is also free which is a huge plus, and there is even a bus system for students who do not have or want to use their cars.
Tips for prospective students I would ask that prospective students go into Rock Valley College with an open mind. Many students come to this school thinking, oh, it's just community college or it's just like high school because everyone comes here, but it really is not. I've met new people, learned new things, and have had a lot of new experiences. I'm going to college, and I feel like a college student! I also advise taking a class if someone suggests it. If one person suggests it, often times you will hear from other people enjoying the class. My last tip is do not stress out if you do not have a major. In fact, most teachers prefer students without majors! You start college at a young age, and you have years to figure out what you want to do for the rest of your life. Do not settle for something you do not enjoy.
Great for these types of students Students who are dedicated about their education. Students who like to save money while still taking the same classes as their fellow graduates attending a university. Students who want to meet new people. Students who want to experience new things.
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1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
Kaitlyn from Rockton, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments Am learning a lot I have found that as long as you put the effort into showing up for class and listening it is almost impossible to not take away information that you can use for the rest of your life. Many of the professors are just as good as those you would find at a university, but are much more personal and will help you out because of the relatively small class sizes.
Am enjoying being here Studying at Rock Valley College has been a great time in my life and I won't ever forget it. When I finally graduate it will be a sad day as I will miss being there and seeing the professors in the hallway that have taught me so much and have been more inspirational to me then I ever thought could be. I never thought I would enjoy going to classes so much as I have here or actually been excited for a Wednesday because of the history lecture I would be attending.
Bang for the buck Rock Valley College, while only a 2 year school, I believe is on par with many 4 year colleges out there. The tuition is based on how many credit hours each class is and is relatively cheap if you're going for an Associates degree.
Tips for prospective students Send your FAFSA in for a chance to receive financial aid! I learned of this after my first year at Rock Valley College and have received financial aid that has paid for all of my tuition and extra costs while attending.
Great for these types of students If you are looking to only get a 2 year degree and then enter the work force then this is definitely the place for you. It will give you a great college experience and prepare you all in just 2 years. Even if you're planning on going farther in your college life, starting at Rock Valley College for your first two years is smart and economic. It will cost a fraction of the price of attending a 4 year school for the same degree, but it will also prepare you for what universities will be like.
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2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
Deborah from Loves Park, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments Am learning a lot The Professors and classes available are perfect for what I need.
Am enjoying being here The campus and environment of the school is a very good place to be.
Bang for the buck You can not beat the cost compared to other schools.
Tips for prospective students Balance your classes for you lifestyle, especially if you are going back to school after a long period of time.
Great for these types of students People who like a more quiet atmosphere and a more down home feeling.
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0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
Thomas from Rockford, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences pretty awesome place with awesome teachers. great class offerings and extracurricular activities. awesome, growing, campus.
Tips for prospective students get involved outside of class! get involved outside of class! be involved!
Academic Rigor depends on your schedule, really.
Dorm Life no dorms...
Food and Dining there are three on campus restaurants. meg's cafe, subway, and papa johns. microwaves and vending are available throughout campus.
What to do for fun clubs, and extra curricular activities are awesome. campus gym is pretty good as well.
Bang for the buck epic!
Clubs and Activities really good!
Campus Safety campus cops are actually really helpful.
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0 out of 2 people found this review useful.
Matt from Rochelle, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments Am learning a lot Rock Valley is really hit or miss with the quality of teachers that you get. Some are brilliant and can teach you a lot, but others are very unorganized and unfocused, causing the classroom to be a boring and annoying experience. The only good thing here is that a lot of the classes are impossible to fail, unless you are horrible at attendance, but that isn't learning, that is passing.
Am enjoying being here Rock Valley can be a very depressing place for students coming right out of high school, especially if you don't know anyone at the school. I came from out of district, so I mostly saw a bunch of people in their 40s going back to school, and unmotivated teens my age that I didn't really relate to. I am not saying that this is everyone at the school, but those two groups tend to overshadow the bright individuals attending.
Bang for the buck Rock Valley is pretty cheap, but the college experience is almost nonexistent. It was worth attending for a year to get some Gen. Eds. out of the way, but staying for a full degree would be a bit too much to ask for me.
Tips for prospective students Get in and get out. Rock Valley is not the kind of school that you want to be stuck at for an extra semester. A lot of the staff can be helpful, but you have to know who to look for, and unless you know someone who works for the college, that can be very hard to do. I would only recommend Rock Valley if you are really hurting for money to pay for college, and if you need to turn around your GPA from high school. Otherwise, work hard at getting into a four year university.
Great for these types of students Non-traditional students, Not sure on major, want easy gen. eds
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Taylor from Rockford, IL
Reviewer is A past student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences Rock Valley College has a wonderful teaching staff who work very hard to make sure the students get everything they need. The classroom size is about 30-40 students which is also nice because the professor gets to know his or her students a lot better. Being a community college, Rock Valley keeps their prices extremely low, so almost anyone can afford it.
Tips for prospective students The main tip for prospective students is to be prepared to do your work. Many people think that because Rock Valley is a Community College and not a University, that the work will be very easy. It is not! Many of the professors here have their PhD and have taught at bigger Universities. They expect their students to do college level work, just as any other big university would.
Academic Rigor Some professors grade easier than others, but for the most part, most of the professors grade tough.
Dorm Life There are no dorms at Rock Valley College.
Food and Dining The food and dining at Rock Valley College consists of Subway, Papa John's Pizza, and Meg's Daily Grind. There is no cafeteria.
What to do for fun The Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College (which is an outdoor theatre) puts on many plays throughout the year which include the drama students. There are also showcases put on by the Student Life Department that include talent shows, performers, etc. First Tuesday lectures are also done on the first Tuesday of every month, that include a different topic and are discussed in lecture form by a professor in that subject area.
Bang for the buck Rock Valley College is very cheap and you will get an outstanding education for what you are paying. It only makes sense to go to a good community college first, instead of paying thousands of dollars for general education classes at a bigger university.
Great for these types of students Rock Valley College is a great place to start for any students that live around the Rockford area and are not sure what field of study they would like to go into. Also, if you aren't quite sure about going away for school right away, Rock Valley is a great place to start your college experience.
Clubs and Activities There are numerous clubs and activities at Rock Valley College, including Model United Nations, Philosophy Club, Psychology Club, Black Student Association, and many more. There are also athletics including, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's tennis, men's golf, women's volleyball, softball, and baseball. Each sport competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III. There are also many teams that have gone to Nationals over the years and have either won Nationals or placed pretty high.
Campus Safety Campus police are always on campus and walking/driving around monitoring the school. If someone needed an escort to their car at night or help with locking their keys in the car, a campus police officer would always be glad to assist them.
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Diego from Rockford, IL
Reviewer is A current student here.
Categories Rating Comments In three sentences Rock Valley College is a great community college.
The campus is small, which is great, and classrooms are small.
Rock valley college has many careers and degrees you can pursue.Academic Rigor Although Rock Valley is a Community college the classes really prepare you.
Dorm Life there are no dorms.
Food and Dining Rock Valley has a great Food area where you can choose from subway and other great great places.
What to do for fun There are many sports that you can play at rock valley college and also many clubs you can join.
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