Arcadia University
Glenside, PA, USA

Reviews

Arcadia University

Theodora from Warren, NJ

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned so much since being at Arcadia, not just facts I need to know for my major but I have been able to learn a lot about myself and other important things. My knowledge has expanded so much thanks to the help of my professors.
Am enjoying being here
I have enjoyed my time spent at Arcadia so far! The school is small so everyone pretty much knows everyone. The classes are also smaller which gives the students a chance to connect better with the professors. Going into Philadelphia is also a lot of fun! I have had the chance to go to the Franklin Institute which is so much fun! There are also a lot of cute fancy restaurants to go to and grab dinner with a group of friends!
Bang for the buck
Arcadia is expensive but the financial office works to give each student the financial aid they need. They also help students find outside help and are very willing to offer scholarships to students in need.
Tips for prospective students
Take more than one visit to the school! Participate in a day on campus where you get to be with a student enrolled at Arcadia and go to classes with them. This really gives prospective students a chance to see the class sizes and also meet potential future peers.
Great for these types of students
This campus is prefect for students who want the small school setting! If you want to be in a small classroom setting then it is perfect! If students need extra help, teachers are very willing to give the help and they get the chance to know each student on a personal level. If you would like to go abroad then this school is perfect for that! Arcadia is known for its study abroad opportunities and all of the students that go abroad truly love the experience.

Fallon from Winsted, CT

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
Arcadia has given me plenty of direction and I've learned a lot about forming a career and about many different subjects. Not only have I learned so much about how to develop a career from the career development center and from my excellent advisor Jaime Miller, but there are so many options of majors and minors that I have been able to explore my many different interests while searching for a future career. The teachers are excellent in all different areas. Because I was Undeclared during my Freshman Year, I took a variety of classes and got to experience the teaching methods of many different kinds of teachers. My Intro to Psychology teacher, Professor Robbins, enhanced my learning experience by being hilarious and interesting while simultaneously being helpful and knowledgable. My art teachers have been encouraging and talented while my communications teachers inspired me to take their subject as a major. I'm shocked at the variety and multitude of excellent teachers and advisors at Arcadia University. I've not only learned much in my chosen subject areas, but about how I want to shape my future.
Am enjoying being here
I had some rough experiences with other students that lived on my floor during my first year at Arcadia, however I've found that to be unusual at this school. I think you're bound to experience rough patches and conflicts during your first year and I'm glad for the experience. I made the wrong kind of friends starting out, so my year wasn't entirely positive by any means, BUT even so I've enjoyed living on campus and being on my own. I've since, toward the end of my Freshman Year, made life long friends. I enjoy the many club options of campus and love being involved. My advice is this for incoming students to help you get the most joy out of your freshman year; avoid people that drink and do drugs, because that's all they do, and if that's not the kind of lifestyle you want then you won't have ANY fun. You may think you can be good friends with those kinds of people even if you want to stay sober, but don't settle for those sort of friends because you're scared. Dare to venture out and make the kinds of friends that are actually good for you because that's when you'll start having fun at Arcadia. If you do want to party, this is not the kind of school for you, because most people here are sober, intelligent, deep thinkers, insightful, adventurous, and open-minded to new experiences.
Bang for the buck
Because no one I know has ever been to college before, I have nothing to base my feelings off of, but it does seem to me that Arcadia is VERY expensive and though there are many great resources at this University, I feel that there could be many things that are better for the price they require you to pay. However, they offer scholarships to many students so it's rare that you have to pay the full cost of tuition, but even so some things could be better. Everyone complains about the dining hall...it's pretty subpar. I wish that the food was more varied and of better quality, and cleaner (I've seen many mice in the dining hall, though I suspect most schools have this issue). The rooms are decent, but freshman housing could be nicer. The library looks nice, but I wish it had more pleasure reading options. I've heard often that they don't have enough books to read (though I think people may just not be looking well enough because I have found some very good books there, even if the selection is slightly lacking). The teachers are great and the study abroad program is excellent, so that must be where the money is going, but the art program needs to be less expensive for the students...I couldn't even indulge in my passion for art classes because of the high cost to students to take the classes because you have to provide all your own supplies from camers and photo paper, to paint, wood, metal working supplies, and brushes. There are some faults in this area, but there are benefits to the price of tuition as well.
Tips for prospective students
- Do not bring all that stuff! You don't need it! If you forget anything there's a Walmart in walking distance (I reccomend going there instead of the bookstore or the Chat for food, because they're both expensive). But really, if in doubt, leave it out.
- Get involved with your Advisor. Write down questions ahead of time. Do your research. Visit the career development center. Be honest with your Advisor. They can only help you help yourself.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs. There's more to life.
- Join clubs and volunteer on campus. Go to the events. You will make more friends and have more fun than just sitting in your room!
- Invite people over....they're bored too.
- Leave your door open...unless your floor is obnoxious, which can happen. Just be polite, and don't be afraid to tell your RA about a problem.
- UM, USE THE GYM. It's free! It's good for you! Bring friends to motivate yourself!
Great for these types of students
- NOT GOOD FOR PARTY ANIMALS...we participate in life at Arcadia.
- Guys and lesbians...because there are mostly women at Arcadia. Otherwise dating can be troublesome.
- Undeclared students, because they're great for helping you find your way and have a lot of class option with very helpful teachers.
- Students that want to live ON-CAMPUS. I feel like off-campus students miss out a bit on activities and the independent experience.
- Not perfect students...nobody is perfect, but if your GPA isn't golden, don't worry, because you'll learn to push yourself here without being completely overwhelmed.

Good luck future Arcadians! Overall, this is fantastic school, and we can't wait to see you.

Rebecka from Cleveland, OH

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Arcadia University has really expanded my education. The teachers are amazing and extremely helpful. As a freshman, I have not only learned about usual topics but have received the opportunity to take a course that suits my personal interests and become more involved on campus with the rest of my class.
Am enjoying being here
The location is great if you like the small campus feeling. I'm also living in a castle! Being close to downtown Philadelphia allows me to get off site and explore but return back to my home for a relaxing evening. It's the ideal location if you like being near everything all at once! Big city life, small city life, an hour from the beach, close to the mountains, good weather, the list never stops. We even have a castle!
Bang for the buck
Arcadia might be expensive on paper but they are willing to give out good amounts of financial aid and they even help you find outside aid.
Tips for prospective students
Take more than one visit to campus and see the castle! Talk to the study abroad offices because Arcadia is known for it's study abroad. Also, if you can stay overnight with a few different people and attend some classes.
Great for these types of students
You will love Arcadia if you like a small school feel with big city living. Class sizes are small and the teachers are very personal. If you want to study abroad, then come to Arcadia!

Candy from CA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Arcadia is my home university, and thanks to Arcadia, I am currently studying abroad at University of Stirling in Scotland. Therefore, this review will be based off of my experiences abroad. Arcadia helped me attend this University in which I am learning so much. The professors are great and they know what they are talking about.
Am enjoying being here
University of Stirling is amazing. There's always something here to do, whether something small like hanging out with friends, or something big like going out to a dance. It's very safe here as well; according to Arcadia, the city of Stirling was rated as one of the safest in the world. I believe this now. Arcadia did a great job of choosing this school for study abroad.
Bang for the buck
I'm paying exactly the same that I would be paying back at Arcadia. For the quality of this education I'm being given, I would say I'm getting bang for the buck. Arcadia tries hard to make sure students abroad are getting the best experience here for their buck.
Tips for prospective students
Study abroad at least once while you're here.
Great for these types of students
anyone really; especially those who want to study abroad and experience something new.

Brittany from Bear, DE

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning a lot in Arcadia University. Academically, I'm a little behind, but I am learning much about campus involvement, safety, and I look forward to learning more.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy my time at Arcadia University. I like how the school isn't too big and I like the closeness of the buildings on campus. There are also a lot of clubs to join here as well. I'm currently not in one but I hope to find the club that's right for me soon.
Bang for the buck
I think that Arcadia University is worth paying for. Even though I am not too thrilled about paying $40,000 a year, I know that this is the right school for me. Arcadia fits all of my needs as I want to major in chemistry pre-forensics and this school has a very good reputation for their forensics program and is worthy of my time/money.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure that Arcadia University is a school that you really want to go to. It is right for some, but it isn't right for everyone. I have seen some people who are transferring out of Arcadia because they are too far from home or are very homesick. Another tip is if you are struggling in a subject, do not be afraid to ask for help. This is college and you can't afford to fool around. We have a learning center and a math center that offers tutoring to those who want it so take advantage of it!
Great for these types of students
Arcadia University is definitely good for students who want to study abroad as our school is number one in the country for it. It is also good for those who intend to study into a health/science fields as there are many classes for those majors.

Ashley from Collegeville, PA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Arcadia has so many fun and interesting classes. The school's curriculum requirements mean that you're not stuck in the classes for your major. Instead, you get to experience amazing classes you couldn't in other schools. A really awesome part of Arcadia is the seminar classes, which are more about having fun and actually thinking rather than learning facts.
Am enjoying being here
I love being at Arcadia so much. Everybody is really chill and there aren't really many mean or annoying people. The only real problems are that pretty much everybody goes home on the weekends, so the campus is a bit of a ghost town, and not that many people go to the campus events, usually because they are hanging out with their friends. What most people do is make their own fun, which leads to some really funny stories. Also, the food isn't exactly amazing, but it's one of those shared experiences which leads to friendships with people you wouldn't expect to be friends with.
Bang for the buck
Ok, Arcadia is really expensive, but the financial aid office is always there for you and there are a bunch of work-study opportunities. Basically, if you're not lazy you will find a way.
Tips for prospective students
Arcadia University is really big on having personal experiences. Whether you're writing an essay or speaking to a member or a faculty, focus on what has meaning to you, rather than some cookie cutter statement about the future or the like. Be genuine about yourself and the things you care about and the University will take notice.
Great for these types of students
Good for pretty much everybody, it is however not a party school and you should be prepared to learn and do your best. However, most of the teachers aren't really strict and you will have fun in class.

Jennifer from South Amboy, NJ

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned so much in my first year of college here. All of my professors were fantastic, and they genuinely cared about my success in their class. Also all the professors treat you with respect, and since class sizes are small you end up forming great bonds with your classmates and professors.
Am enjoying being here
I love it here! Everyone is super friendly, and welcoming. The people on your hall become great friends, and same with those in your classes. The school hosts many events like dances, fairs, and comedians and that is all free! I had a blast!
Bang for the buck
The tuition is a bit on the higher side but they do give great scholarships, and will help with financial needs. When you go here you are paying for a great education. You will learn while you are here since the class sizes are small. SO far my biggest class was 20 students and my smallest was 3.
Tips for prospective students
Go on preview. Preview is normally a 2 credit class offered to first years and transfer students. In the class you learn about some aspect of a country and then during spring break you travel to that country. It really is a lot of fun, and you can;t beat the price. Honor students do not have to pay, but for everyone else it is only $500. That includes airfare, transportation, activities, and a place to stay. You also get some meals. This was the highlight of my first year, I went to Barcelona>
Great for these types of students
Great for students who love or want to travel. The school prides itself on being the best in study abroad, and there are so many opportunities to go abroad. This school is also great for those who really want a personalized education experience. Your professors will know you by name, and so will the staff. Also if you are not big on partying then this school is good. Though there are parties, no one pressures you to do anything, and there are much more students not partying then those who do party.

Christyn Cecille from Easton, PA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Arcadia University has taught me a lot not only about my major, but also about myself. It has taught me to be more open minded about things especially things that are not normal to me.
Am enjoying being here
I really do love being here. I am trying to stay on campus more often on the weekends and taking advantage of the activities that goes on around here that I have missed last year when I needed to go home because of issues at home.
Bang for the buck
Arcadia offers a good amount of financial aid and scholarships.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely visit the campus. It is an incredible experience. You would want to see it for yourself rather than hear from other people what it is like. If you are an accepted high school senior, take advantage of the Day On Campus program in the Spring. You can stay with current students and shadow them for the day. You can either stay for the day or overnight.
Be involved. It's a great way to meet new people.
Great for these types of students
Perfect for those who want the small school setting. That's what I was concerned about. I didn't want to be just a number. I needed that one on one with my professor if I ever had questions or needed help. We're not in the city, but we are still close enough to the city. And we are a safe school. There are no fights or problems that I have ever heard of.

Lauren from Denton, TX

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Arcadia University is a good university. I always feel safe and at home in class and on campus. Additionally, there are opportunities both academic and social that students are encouraged to participate in ranging from community service to a very affordable study abroad program.
Tips for prospective students
Make use of the resources available to you. The OCE and Student Health Services are especially helpful.
Academic Rigor
The academic rigor depends on the program you are taking. As a Creative Writing major, I'm held to all of the standards of an English major and then some. Additionally, keeping a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher is an absolute requirement, and there is no grace period for Freshmen. If you dip below a 2.0, you may be subject to academic dismissal.
Dorm Life
The dorms are quiet and safe, but I would imagine that it depends on what dorm you are living in. Kistler, Thomas, and Dilworth Hall are all connected and, as they are traditionally-styled residence halls, their lounges are nicer than Knight Hall's are. Every floor in Hall is different, though, so it really depends on your RA.
Food and Dining
I was actually shocked at how good the food on campus was when I first arrived. It definitely makes the meal plan worth having even if you don't live on campus. The options are often both healthy and tasty, and they do their best to include at least one meal option for students with dietary restrictions every day (vegan options, gluten-free options, etc).
What to do for fun
Arcadia is within walking distance to the Glenside train station, which will take students right into Center City, Philly. Glenside itself (and the nearby Keswick Village) has a few hidden gems as well, such as good places to eat and shop.
Greek Life
There is no Greek life on campus.

Isis from Islandia, NY

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I love the atmosphere there, it feels like a little home, and everyone knows each other. It might feel a little bit weird at first, but when you go through the day, it becomes a much more comfortable environment.
Tips for prospective students
Ask questions, and get into the games ad activities they do! It gives you that nice encounter into the Arcadia spirit. Take the tours millions of times, because you'll find something new there every time.
Academic Rigor
While it might not be the most known, this school is very strict academically. They do have activities for the students, but when it comes down to business and making sure each student is on the right track, they make sure of it. If they aren't, they're out.
Dorm Life
As far as I've known, it a real comfort being in the rooms.
Food and Dining
It might take a while to get used to the food, but it's really good.
What to do for fun
You can play on the field, watch games, they have a game room there as well when I slept over. There's also many places around the campus you could go to as well.
Bang for the buck
Definitely expensive, but worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
They have Scarlet and Grey Day, and Reading Days the day finals start, and so many more.
Great for these types of students
Any student really, they really are accustomed to all types of students.
Clubs and Activities
A lot of clubs. If it's not there, you can make one, it's no problem!
Greek Life
We don't have that here.
Campus Safety
Very safe, very small campus, so they make sure everyone is good.