Bradley University
Peoria, IL, USA

Reviews

Bradley University

BRITTANY from Matteson, IL

a current student here
22 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Wow. Bradley University is a wonderful college for those who want to receive a great education in any chosen field of study. Bradley offers the best of the best college professors who all share the same passion and enthusiasm in not only their studies, but also in their students. Amongst the faculty of Bradley University includes Dr. Kevin Stein, who is Illinois' Poet Laureate. I was a student in his class, and I must say that he is a very dedicated, responsive, and passionate professor. In all of my classes, my teachers showed the same care for their pupils and many were available during their office hours if more help was needed. Bradley University is a good choice for the best education!
Am enjoying being here
Interested in joining any clubs/organizations? Well, Bradley University offers over 200+ organizations, and if you still can't find something that you're interested in, just start your own club. As simple as that! I really enjoy being a student at Bradley.

During the first week, there's so many activities to participate in, I wish I had clones so that I could go to every event. One thing that is great about Bradley is that there is something that occurs every week, sometimes every other day. Once you set up a B.U. email, you'll receive information called Hilltop Happenings, which basically lists the days of the week and all of the fun events planned. This is one of the best emails that a student can receive because it is a relief from the week of studying.

Want to relax underneath the sun? Olin Quad is the spot for you. Many students like to grab their blankets, laptops, MPG players, and enjoy the warm temperature while hanging out with some friends. You will absolutely be able to find that special social group just for you. Everyone at Bradley is very sociable, nice, and excited about being a student there.
Bang for the buck
The great thing about Bradley University is that the tuition is well worth the enrollment. Due to the number of activities and organizations, everything feels well-worth it. A new recreation center, the Markin, was built in the past year, and it is every student's dream. It includes a swimming pool, rock-climbing wall, multiple basketball courts, indoor track, a massive amount of exercise machines, dance studio, and many more rooms.

Bradley University classes are small, so there is more one-on-one time with professors. The professors are all willing to help their students. In other words, you will get the best professors for a very decent tuition cost.

The food at Bradley is great! It is all-you-can-eat at the cafeterias and a lunch doesn't cost as much as four dollars. Awesome! Breakfast does not run higher than two. Even better! Bradley also offers a vegeterian bar in both cafeterias for those who do not eat meat.

The dorm buildings are great and several of the rooms are lofted, which allows for more floor space, which makes the room even spacious. The rooms are very cozy and it feels like home everytime you walk inside your room.

When you apply for enrollment, you're automatically applying for scholarships. Bradley offers multiple scholarships such as the Presidential, Provost-Garrett, and University Scholarship. The counselors, resident advisors, and even the President of Bradley University are all available with office hours if students want to contact them. Bradley University is truly a wonderful college choice!!
Tips for prospective students
Go to Bradley. You will not regret it. Make sure that you study hard, yet, still have fun at the same time. You will fall in love with the campus size and the amount of activities that they have to offer. Be sure to join at least one. Get involved. That's a mistake that many students seem to make; they do not get involved and regret it later on. Volunteer your time. Do some community service. You will feel great afterwards!
Great for these types of students
Bradley University is great for any student. Regardless of sex, race, background, and field of study. The Garrett Center is a multicultural building and is a great place for any student to go to with anything. If you're from a foreign country, there is no need to feel alone. Many students at Bradley are from other countries, but the Garrett Center helps to bring everyone together.

Go to Bradley University, a place where you can truly, B.U. (be you).

Kensli from Chicago, IL

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I originally enrolled in Bradley University as a Dietetics Major but after a one on one sit down with the head of the Dietetics department during my orientation we decided the major was not for me. He recommended Nutrition and Wellness because it allowed me to learn most of the same information without having the focus of becoming a Dietitian, which is not what I wanted to be. After my first semester at Bradley I realized I made the right decision. I took Family Consumer Sciences along with the Dietetics Majors and I learned all the information they did.
Am enjoying being here
Initially the change from such a large city environment to such a rural country town was very drastic for me and I missed the city. But after making many friends, some of which felt the same way, I found I was able to adjust to the change in environment rather well. A good thing about the campus is that it's only 3 or so hours from the city so whenever I missed hanging out downtown I just hopped on the Peoria Coach Charter and went home for the weekend. It's the perfect distance away, not too far but not too close either.
Bang for the buck
Since Bradley is a Private University it may seem on the expensive side but the money is well spent. You can definitely see the differences when you visit public institutions. There facilities are not as new, and well kept as that of Bradley. We constantly have renovations that keep our school looking great and also these renovations add to the convenience of the students. You can additionally see our money go toward the qualifications and hiring of our professors who all seem eager to teach and help out students if they are struggling with any aspects of school.
Tips for prospective students
Let's see, a few good tips I can think of would be:
1. Don't be afraid to change your major or enroll undecided. Bradley has a spectacular undecided program and your advisers can help get you where you want and need to be.
2.Wait it out. If initially you don't like it give it some time. Change a few things up in order to find the root of the reason why you don't like it. Don't make drastic choices.
3. Take advantage of your teachers willingness to help. If you are struggling do not feel ashamed or embarrassed. Everyone has that one class they just don't get. Ask your teacher for additional help 10/10 times the teacher will be grateful you came to them.
Great for these types of students
Bradley University is great for students interested in majors of Engineering, Nursing, and Health Sciences. It is great for students looking for a smaller school. It is good for students who would like a change from the fast pace life of a city. It is great for students who would love additional help in school. It is great for students who love to hang out on the quad in the down time of summer and spring and hangout in friends dorms in the down time of winter and fall. It is great for students who may not know exactly what it is they want to do. It's great for almost every student!

Joshua from Sumter, SC

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Bradley University is a top school in the engineering and nursing field. As an engineering student myself I am learning all sorts of interesting, helpful, and lifelong information. Bradley is opening the world to me through the eyes of a student, of a person ready to learn. Even if engineering or nursing isn't your major, the other curriculums are still top of the list. The teachers are always ready to help you and guide you to excellence. Your learning skills and experience will soar to new heights.
Am enjoying being here
Bradley isn't only a school, it's a community. They have tons of activities, clubs, and sports to participate in. From basketball and indoor soccer to skydiving and fencing to music and drama. Bradley just opened the Markin Center, their new gym, and it is amazing. They have plenty of room to workout, do programs, and just have fun. They are always having special programs taking place on campus, special guest speakers, and meeting with other students and employers in the local area. Even the dorms are fun. Once you get to know the people on your floor or in your building, you'll always have people to hang out with. You can never be bored at Bradley as long you get out and explore.
Bang for the buck
Bradley is a top school in the nation. It is known nationwide, I know this personally as I had a friend mention my school to her friend in California, and they had heard of Bradley's prestige. If you put in the work, you are guaranteed to get the education you are seeking. Outside of classes, the school offers so many extracurricular activities at no extra charge. You get your moneys worth.
Tips for prospective students
From the moment you arrive at campus, go out and get involved. Join a fraternity or a sorority, clubs, groups, anything that you might find interesting or fun. You can learn so many things that you never thought you'd have the chance to. I myself took a fencing class, something I never pictured myself doing, but it was absolutely worth it. Go out and meet people, Bradley isn't a huge campus, so you'll be seeing the same people a lot, might as well make them your friends. As for classes, study, ask for help, and focus on you goals.
Great for these types of students
Engineering or nursing students should definitely look into Bradley. The programs here are recognized nationwide and they provide some of the best knowledge in these areas of study.

Rachel from St. Louis, MO

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The education I am receiving in the courses at Bradley is beyond what I imagined. Although the classes are difficult, the professors are very helpful. Also, you are offered free tutoring hours which I have found very helpful for learning anything I may find difficult. The classes are definitely preparing me for future courses and my career.
Am enjoying being here
The people here are all welcoming. My RA made sure we found people we clicked with. We also had floor programs which were really fun and allowed you to bond with your new neighbors. The university offers over 200 clubs/organizations so I am always doing something. The recreation center is brand new and makes working out fun since there is so much to do. I also got to see Maroon 5 in concert, front row tickets for $10 which was awesome. I was told every year they have a concert like this! I also got to see the author of post secret speak which is the most interesting speech I have heard, it was very heartfelt.

Greek life is something the university always talks about and promotes, however, I decided not to join and I am still really enjoying my time at school. I have plenty of friends both in houses and not in houses and I am glad with the choice I made.
Bang for the buck
The school is very expensive, however the education you receive is great and they offer free tutoring hours. The clubs and organizations are often free and very enjoyable. Also, keep in mind when looking at the price that this is a private school and when compared to others that are the same size and rank are much more expensive.
Tips for prospective students
I came to Bradley only knowing one person that would attend the school. I was extremely nervous, living with someone I did not know, new classes, and all new people. The transition was easy. I met people right away that I clicked with because although it is a smaller school, you will see diversity on campus, in race, religion, sex and interests.

Also, if you are having problems with your roommate make sure you talk to your RA. They want you to enjoy your time at college and make you feel comfortable so they will do what they can to help you.
Great for these types of students
Bradley is great for a student that is interested in a school that is not large but not too small where you are able to be yourself. I know it also was great for me because my high school did not do the best job preparing me for college studying, however the professors are very helpful and so are the tutors as well as adviser's. Honestly, I think the school is great for any students because it has the best of large schools (diversity, many things to do, ect.) but also the best of small schools ( no Teacher's Assistants, small class sizes with a small student to professor ratio)

Abigail from Bloomington, IL

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
A majority of the teachers are incredible, they remember your name and they really help you feel like your an individual not just another number. The programs are all really great and you get an advisor who really knows what they're talking about and you will have them as a teacher by the time your a junior and a senior. One of the coolest things that I've been able to do is that you can minor in Leadership, something that will look great on a resume and you can learn so much from.
Am enjoying being here
The town itself is way different from a big city such a Chicago, and you have to look to find stuff to do, but there are so many opportunities on campus. There are over a thousand different student organizations and Bradley definitely encourages all of the students to get involved. They have a great Greek life that is way different from any other school. There is a place for everyone here at Bradley and most people you can tell really love the school.
Bang for the buck
Obviously BU is an expensive school, but once you get past just the numbers you realize there are great ways to help pay for all of that while getting an incredible education. Bradley offers great scholarships and a majority of the students recieve one. It ended up being the same cost to go here as it would to go to the public university in my hometown. They offer several different payment plans to fit everyones needs. A little known fact is that the price per year is actually only 80% of what it costs to educate you, Alumni donations and other gifts pay the rest.
Tips for prospective students
Bradley has a million different fairs in the first week, a part time job fair, activities fair, even a food fair. Go to all of those because they really help you know all of your options at school.
Great for these types of students
Its one of the top communication schools in the country, and its small enough that you never feel lost, and big enough to not feel like your in high school again.

Thomas from Oak Forest, IL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Bradley is a fantastic college for those looking for a warm, inviting classroom atmosphere. The professors are always willing to sit with their students, one-on-one, to halp them reach their fullest potential. At Bradley, the opportunities for success are endless.
Tips for prospective students
ALWAYS seek help when you need it. This can be done by asking the professor directly, asking your peers, or getting some tudoring. Every professor has office hours where you can just walk into their office and ask questons. Also, you can schedule a meeting time with your professor if needed. Every week you can get 2 free hours of tudoring in any subject. Use that to your advantage. The tudors are other students who previously took the class and excelled.
Academic Rigor
Although Bradley is very strict on their cheating policy, the professors still do a good amount of bending. For example, some professors will completely change the grading scale if the class average is lower than the usual ABC scale.
Dorm Life
The dorm life is nothing short of exciting. There is always something going on on your floor. People to socialize with, games to play, and floor activities to participate in.
Food and Dining
Bradley just recently (within the past 2 years) updated four of its dining halls and food courts. The food in each are is great (most of the time) and there is a large array of choices. The most recent addition to campus is a Chick-fil-a in the student center.
What to do for fun
The campus is always lively. In the Olin quad on most days you will find hundreds of students hanging out or palying games. Once or twice per month there is the Late Night BU. This is a large event that takes place in the rec-center and students come to play games, win prizes, listen to music, and eat some FREE FOOD. The events are something that has to be experienced.
Bang for the buck
Bradley offers numerous benefits that other colleges don't. On top of Late Night BU, Bradley offers benefits for the school part of the Bradley experience. Each student can ave up to 2 hours of free tudoring per week if they need it as well as professors who are willing to help at almost any time. The professors offer office hours every week as well as schedule appointments, which is more than a large majority of other colleges.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
It is a tradition at Bradley basketball games to have every student and fan in the stadium turn their backs to the court and drown out the announcer when the other team is being announced.
Great for these types of students
Bradley is great for any student who wants a quality education but also wants to enjoy their college years.
Clubs and Activities
Bradley has an uncountable number of clubs on campus. If you do not find the club you want, then it is easy to create it. All it takes is a few more people to sign a petition and your club becomes part of Bradley!
Greek Life
Bradley's campus is a very greek campus. There are over 1300 students in the various fraternities and sororities.
Campus Safety
Bradley University has its very own police force located on campus. At night, you can call the campus cruiser to come pick you up and drop you off anywhere on campus for free. There is also a safty patrol that walks campus all night to ensure you are safe.

Niyah from Chicago, IL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Bradley is an amazing school with a beautiful campus. The professors and staff are always looking for ways to help the students succeed. There are so many resources to use in order to have a wonderful college experience as well as finding careers after college.
Tips for prospective students
Bradley is a small campus, so take advantage of the access that you have to all if the buildings and dining halls. Remember your purpose for being in college. It is easy to get distracted if you are more focused on the social aspect of college.
Academic Rigor
My peers and I are always challenged to reach our fullest potential constantly. The classes are small and challenging, but the professors are available outside of the classroom, which allows the students to build a personal connection with the professors.
Dorm Life
The dorms are nice. Each residence hall is unique in some way; however the bathrooms are cleaned on a regular basis, and the rooms remain a comfortable temperature. All of the dorms are in close reach of one of the dining services and also have vending machines in the lobby.
Food and Dining
There is food everywhere, so the students do not have to travel far to eat. Williams dining hall is known for its variety of ice cream while Geisert dining hall is known for its breakfast and variety of foods. The student center has an amazing salad bar and Chick Fil A, and Center Court is the place to be if the students just want a burger and fries.
What to do for fun
There is much to do on campus. There are student activities clubs, Late Night BU, socials for diversity, comedy jams, and concerts. Bradley sends out a weekly list of upcoming events , so there is never a dull moment.
Bang for the buck
Bradley is unique for having such helpful career and academic advisors as well as professors. If the students want to succeed, the resources are available to them.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
On Halloween, one of the Singles residence halls is used for the annual haunted house, which is really fun. Bradley also has Lighting of the B ceremony during homecoming week.
Great for these types of students
Students who can balance a social life and education, are willing to have an open mind, and have enough discipline to remain focused
Clubs and Activities
There are many clubs to join, and everyone is welcomed. These clubs are very important on campus, and everyone fits in somewhere. There are clubs based on religion, culture, sports, and interest.
Greek Life
Greek life is very prominent on campus. There are plenty of fundraisers that the sororities and fraternities have, and it makes just a regular day really fun, For example, one fraternity had a pie throwing contest to raise money.
Campus Safety
Bradley has its own police station located right in Campustown. The officers are very friendly, and they are always available or on patrol. The campus feels more secure at night than other colleges that I have visited.

Kristin from Bettendorf, IA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I absolutely love my classes and teachers at Bradley. I am learning a lot and the teachers make time for students to come in for additional help and questioning. Since Bradley is small, there are small class sizes which I find extremely helpful when asking questions. The small size allows for one-on-one time with the professors. The professors are great, they're extremely knowledgeable and I've never walked away without my question being answered.
Am enjoying being here
I love the atmosphere, campus, living, food, and people I've met here at Bradley. I was a little worried coming here because I was the only student from my high school, but it hasn't been a problem at all. The students at Bradley are very welcoming and the staff is phenomenal. There are great events going on all the time and so many different organizations to get involved in, it's hard to choose which ones.
Bang for the buck
Since Bradley is a private college, it's more expensive than a lot of other schools. However, Bradley is extremely affordable for a private college. My application was free since I applied early, which is a good reflection of Bradley. Your dollars are put to good usage. The meal plan allows you to only spend what you would like, and all the leftover money you get back, unlike a lot of bigger schools. Bradley offers a lot of academic and athletic scholarships that are very accessible. Also, since I am out of state, I was awarded with an additional scholarship. Bradley is definitely worth every penny.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early, don't panic over the price, look into Bradley's and your high school scholarships.
If attending, orientation is a great place to meet your roommate!
When picking a dorm, pick one with air-conditioning, the ones without are nice and they supply you with a window air-conditioner, but the ones with are nicer.
Great for these types of students
I loved high school because I wasn't intimidated to go ask the teacher questions and because I could walk around the campus and know a lot of people, familiar and friendly faces. Both of these elements are found at Bradley, just slightly larger and with more independence.

Christina from Rockford, IL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Bradley has small class sizes so you have a more personal relationship with your professors. They actually learn your name and help you out a lot when you ask.
Am enjoying being here
I love Bradley's small campus because all your classes are within a five minute walk. There is not much to do in Peoria's downtown though, but I still love going to school there.
Tips for prospective students
Go to your advisor as much as you can. Don't be afraid, they will help you out with any question you have.
Great for these types of students
If you prefer small class sizes rather than big lecture halls, and a better relationship with your professors, this university is right for you!

Casey from Bartlett, IL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I really love how Bradley is so personalized! That is the main reason I chose to be here. So far all of my teachers have been really involved in the learning process and it is very easy to get a hold of them for questions or office hours.
Each teacher is different but all of them have shown knowledge in their field and effectively use pictures and graphs to explain the concepts.
Bradely has a wonderful tutor program where you can get 2 hours of free tutoring a week. Not to mention the teachers are very concerned about how well you understand the material. Just ask them when to come in and they will help you as much as you need it!
Am enjoying being here
I do enjoy the campus but there isn't much around Bradley to do. To fill up your time, you need to join a sorority/fraturnity or be involved with many clubs/activities. One thing I love about this school is its late night BU program. Once a month, Bradley has late night BU with FREE admission, FREE food, FREE games, and many fun activities to choose from. It is a fun alternative to parties or drinking (if you are the conservitive student). Also, if you don't have a car to reach any grocery stores, clubs, or really anything else there isn't much to do. I also wish there was a football team but Bradley has a great basketball and soccer team!
Bang for the buck
I think the education is of a good quality. The teachers know what they are talking about, the rooms are rather nice, and there is a home-like atmosphere. Also, Bradley is doing a lot of construction so more opportunies are coming!
The only real complaint I have is that Bradley feels isolated. Compared to larger universities, there isn't much to do around the campus. However, I'm hoping the current construction will change that.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure to tour each campus before you choose. I wasn't planning on going to Bradley when I applied but I went on the tour and I loved it!
Also, don't be discouraged by the price. I applied early and qualifyed for a $16,000 schlorship. Good luck!
Great for these types of students
If you like busy life, Bradley isn't for you. If you want a place where you recognize people, have a tight knit community, and easy access to help and teachers, Bradley is perfect! I am a rather shy person and I was able to find a great group of friends rather easily. The great thing about this school is that is small so its personalized AND its on the larger side so it has many clubs to choose from.