Concordia College at Moorhead
Moorhead, MN, USA

Reviews

Concordia College at Moorhead

Current Student from MN

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Learning at Concordia is different than the learning I did in high school. From my very first class I became aware that I would be thinking differently than ever before. That first class was my inquiry seminar, and in that class we were introduced to the way Concordia classes were generally conducted. We were able to discuss, but in a manner much more meaningful than I had ever experienced. We talked about the world in a way that we had to think about our views, the views of others, and how we can overcome these to make progress in the world. We discussed knowledge and how it was acquired, and how we can take from the ideas of others and use our own to build upon the general pot of knowledge in the world. In all of my classes it has been stressed that we use not only the things we learn in class, but take information from other classes or other experiences to contribute information and make significant connections between classes. We are encouraged to even take part in community through volunteering, learn about ways that we as students actually have the potential to produce change. We can change ourselves, our peers, and even potential to change the world, through involvement in community and using the skills we acquire here at Concordia. Professors encourage us to do our best and push us to really think deeply, and make our work mean something more than just another school project. It is great to know that what I am doing is important!
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy being at Concordia very much! The atmosphere of students is great. It means a lot about the people here that students and professors open doors for each other, and seems to be just natural. The students, professors, and staff are quite cheery and usually say hi as you pass by on the sidewalks. The campus is kept very beautiful, and most of all the bell tower that rings, is my favorite part. Along with the campus itself, the activities are great. The student groups for service, entertainment, and ministry are very important. The entertainment student group puts on events throughout the school week as well as on weekends to provide activities when students are not studying, or just want to be in community with others. The ministry on campus, such as chapel every day, is great for those religious individuals. It is great that the school has a time during every school day for non-denominational worship, and Wednesday evening service. It makes being spiritually involved through school much easier, and makes the connection to Concordia stronger. The service student group on campus is great as well. It is important in college that we are able to be involved in the community or city we live in as well as in the school community. The volunteer opportunities through this group give students the chance to get involved, and feel more a part of the area they live in. The combination of all of these things has made my experience at Concordia very enjoyable!
Bang for the buck
Even though Concordia is a private college, and more expensive than a state or community school, I feel what I have spent has been worth it. The living environment, the dorms, are kept very clean and the food that is in the dining hall is great! These two things can mean a lot as far as the experience overall for some students. However, as I explained before, the learning experience is awesome as well, and well worth the money for a one-on-one connection with professors that genuinely want you to succeed. Also, the things the college does such as the ministry on campus, the service commission, and the entrainment provided are great, and have proved very worth while in my experience. As well, Concordia is a school that wants students to succeed and have a great staff that will help students in need of financial help, find the money they need to attend. The opportunity for on campus jobs are available to all students, and jobs are very manageable hours with class schedules and other commitments. Even though it is pricey, the education, connections, and overall experience is well worth the money.
Tips for prospective students
As a prospective student, it is very hard to know what you will want for a college. Therefore, going to Concordia and spending the night for an on-campus visit is very important. There is an awesome atmosphere that may not be experienced in just a tour. Spending the night gives prospective students a chance to experience the dorms, meet students, and see what the dining hall is like. As well visiting a class will help deciding. I visited a class that had to do with my prospective major and found that I really enjoyed it and cannot wait to take the class next year.
Great for these types of students
Students who are ready to be academically challenged and who love community will love Concordia. However, there are many different types of people here, and all are very well accepted.There are many clubs for people with different interests, including an intercultural center, and office of student leadership for students to start clubs. Even though it may be a Lutheran school, all religions are welcomed. I think Concordia is great for those who want to find a great school with one-on-one attention from professors who will push you to success, as well as finding great friends, and have awesome experiences.

Alexander from Missoula, MT

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
All of the classes offered by Concordia have been extremely useful for me. I was a little bit disappointed with my writing class (a required class, along with oral communication) but it was not so much that the class itself was bad. I learned a lot from it. I just had a bad experience with a teacher. I heard from a lot of my friends that their teachers were amazing, however mine just turned out to be an extreme feminist and refused to give good grades out to guys unless she thought you agreed with her. Other than that though, all of my classes have been great. Every time that I have had a problem in a class I have been able to talk to the professor and either get the problem resolved right away or at least learn what I could do to resolve the problem.
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere is great for students, and there are a lot of events put on by the CEC (Campus Entertainment Commission). This school is great for chemistry and biology majors (like myself), and there are plans to massively overhaul the entire building in which bio and chem are held. There is also a new business building being built which is going to be awesome in the future.
For guys this is more important, but this school has an extremely high ratio of girls.
There are also plenty of sports and intramural opportunities here, and you can also decide to work alongside the professors and other workers here if you want. It is overall an amazing school.
Bang for the buck
The school is expensive at times, but the amount of financial aid that the school gives is almost always enough to make it just as cheap as a in-state college.
Tips for prospective students
Don't walk under the bell tower, you will be shunned if you do. Ha ha, some urban legend. But seriously, your orientation leaders will tell you almost everything you need to know, and even if you aren't sure enough to just sign up, go to the school and visit! There are a lot of people (who are students mind you) who are willing to show you around and give you an unbiased account of the school. Yeah they are told to tell you certain things like Our choir won an academy award! or whatever, but in reality, the people who show you around will just tell you how they have seen it in their experience here, and will definitely give you a real insiders scoop.

You might want to bring a car, even though the college will tell you it is not needed it is a really good idea. I didn't bring mine, and now I have to find rides everywhere. There is a great bus service, I'm just not the type of person who can memorize bus schedules, or carry them around with me.
Great for these types of students
I think that this school is great for any type of students. The tri-college program lets you take programs at other colleges without paying extra, so definitely take advantage of that!

Elizabeth from Rochester, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Like any school, Concordia has its ups and downs. I have mostly discovered ups, however. The academics are challenging but still enjoyable.
Am enjoying being here
Ask any Concordia student what some of their favorite parts of this place are, and I'd bet 99% of them would mention the people or the community feeling in their list. The Cobber community is just so wonderful and tight-knit and family-like. What's not to love? :)
Bang for the buck
A lot of times you forget how much the insane tuition is because you're learning so much and loving it so much, but when those bills show up, I'd be lying if I said a little part of you doesn't wilt inside. You just have to decide that money isn't everything.
Great for these types of students
Those who want:
-small private school
-tight community feeling
-really really long cold winters
-amazing music
-college town with other universities

Thain from Moorhead, MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Most of the teachers are very friendly, open-minded and supportive.
It has a strong arts and communications department.
It is in a small town and is great for people who want to feel at home.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to ask for help from the teachers, they're always willing to help.
Try to be involved in student activities but be careful not to overdo it.
Definitely study abroad, the college encourages it and the experience is definitely worth it.
Academic Rigor
The classes are not that difficult to a point that you are overwhelmed by it. However, you still need to analyze the texts carefully and understand properly as well as have genuine ideas to write good papers. Most of the classes provoke many ideas, the textbooks are great and I've learned a lot.
Dorm Life
The dorms are pretty clean. The floor-mates are usually considerate and friendly. The Residential Assistants are well-trained and great at doing their jobs. Students need to have something to enter the dorms so it is very safe.
Food and Dining
Concordia definitely has one of the best college dining services. There are quite a number of meal plans to choose from and they are all good value. There are seven different food stations.
What to do for fun
The town is small so joining any club or organization is a great way to meet people and get fun experiences. Also look out for the weekly events as well as special events planned by the CEC (Campus Entertainment Commission).

Off-campus, downtown Fargo is great for hanging out with friends.
Bang for the buck
Concordia definitely is one of the more reasonably priced colleges.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There is a bell tower and its myth is that any couple who passes under it will be together forever. You will see the students avoiding walking under it as there's also a myth that you'll be alone forever if you pass under it alone.
Clubs and Activities
There are many student organizations here. You will definitely find one that suits your hobbies and interests.
Campus Safety
In addition to being in a small town with low crime rates, the campus is very safe. The campus police usually makes rounds at night.

Ellen from Bemidji, MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The environment at Concordia exudes a passion for learning; however, this only occurs when one applies themselves to their classes, which is the case no matter what school you go to. What makes Concordia stand out is the critical thinking that is implemented by the students, which can be seen throughout campus. The faculty truly invest in the students, and it is easy to see that they want their students to succeed. The combination of motivated, critically minded students and excellent faculty make Concordia a place where one is constantly learning new things.
Am enjoying being here
Due to the small size of the school - about 2500 students - there is a definite feeling of community on campus. Even when my high school came to Concordia to participate in the Choral Festival, I distinctly remember feeling completely at home on the campus. Students open the doors for each other, cheerfully smile and greet prospective students or classmates, and are consistently genial and welcoming to everyone they encounter.
Bang for the buck
Although Concordia is a private college, and thus significantly more expensive than a state/community school option, the money is well spent when one considers the quality of the education being received. As I noted earlier, the learning environment at Concordia is top-notch, and exudes excellence and a passion for knowledge. The faculty are friendly, and legitimately desire the success of their students. Fellow students become good friends, and subsequently challenge each other to succeed and perform to the best of their ability. Overall, Concordia is a unique place where an amicable community and a superb education are combined.
Tips for prospective students
Be sure to get an on-campus tour; experiencing Concordia's campus and community is a great way to see if it is a good fit for you. Additionally, talk to the faculty of the program you desire to major in - I guarantee they will answer any and all questions.
Great for these types of students
Students who have a passion for learning, who want to become a part of a close-knit community, and desire to be challenged to think critically will find Concordia an ideal place to pursue their education.

Kirsten from Moorhead, MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning so much. I have always been interested in music, but I have never studied music theory until coming up here. I have learned immensely from my professors and the different departments that this school has to offer me.
Am enjoying being here
I have some of the most amazing people that I surround myself with up here. They are phenomenal. Everyone here is so dedicated and eager to learn their field of study and the professors here are wonderful. There are many options for food, though sometimes you get sick of it, that is going to happen anywhere that you go.
Bang for the buck
Absolutely. Concordia is not a cheap college, but for what I am learning, I am absolutely getting the most amazing experiences that will help me in the long run. This college is SO worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Come and visit. Concordia is a very welcoming school and has such a fantastic atmosphere. When you are here, ask any question that you have, literally, ANY question.
Great for these types of students
Someone who wants a small campus and small class sizes. Someone who wants a liberal school while still having a traditional background. Anyone interested in music or languages should put Concordia on the top of their list!

Ingrid from Edgerton, MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a freshman with the first semester under her belt, I have learned so much already! I have taken general chemistry, biology, speech, and a C.S. Lewis class. The professors strive to draw connections between their areas of study and others. You learn so much more this way and you become exposed to many ideas!
Am enjoying being here
Concordia has a strong emphasis on community; Freshman Orientation is a week-long event that you spend with 10-20 other freshman, 2 Orientation Leaders, and a faculty mentor. This is called your club. You then have 2 classes first semester with your clubbies and you get to know them really well. Life-long friendships are made because of this process and helps make college an enjoyable place to be!
Bang for the buck
It's pretty expensive, but you get what you pay for. Most of the professors are the top in their respective fields; if you want to learn, they will help you in every way they can. You have to work hard, but it will all be worth it when you get a job because of your outstanding skills.
Tips for prospective students
Find people to study with. I know this is what everyone says, but you will be able to have so much more fun in college if you get your homework done first and then go play! Have a set time where you and someone else go to the library or another quiet spot and do homework for a few hours. You can then hold each other accountable and encourage each other.
Great for these types of students
Concordia is a college that expects you to be actively involved in your education. If you don't understand something in class, don't be afraid to ask the professor and be sure to use their posted office hours. If you are a person who likes to skip class to sleep in, Concordia isn't for you.

Jesse from Moorhead, MN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Great professors that are engaging and trying to make students look at world issues and engagement. The class sizes are very small on average and you can be a student with a name opposed to just a number compared to larger campuses. Overall, the campus is inviting and rigorous but its what you pay for.
Tips for prospective students
Please plan ahead as this is a very competitive school and does require and expect a lot from their students, but also does give you time to have a personal life as well, but understand the purpose of college too.
Academic Rigor
Expectations are high in most classes, but they are encouraging and setting every student up for the real world beyond the college life and rigor is important to understand.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is very great and expected for the first two years to live in traditional housing on campus. The activities and hall events are sometimes goofy or do not work out but they are encouraging students to be a community while they are here on campus.
Food and Dining
We have a great newly renovated and built dining center with a head culinary chef and great recipes. This gives a great atmosphere and options for student's dietary needs and likes. This is a great place for students to study and enjoy a fireplace in the winter.
What to do for fun
The campus has weekly events that are scheduled through our campus entertainment commission and also located in the area those that are 21+ have the option for great establishments downtown within a mile away and also nearby establishment. For those that are not there are on-campus events that include comedians, poetry slam, campus movies, dances, and other events.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Campanile on campus has a superstitious concept behind it that you do not walk underneath it alone or you will be alone forever and if you walk under with someone you will be them for your life. Its quite interesting and entertaining to see people just walk around it opposed to the middle of it.

Corinne from Milbank, SD

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The classes are small, which allows for closer interactions with the professors. It also allows you to get to know your classmates better. The close-knit community allows for a sense of home, togetherness and a better learning community.
Tips for prospective students
Give Concordia a fair chance. Adjusting to a new college is never easy. For me, freshmen year was difficult adjusting to new people, new friends, harder classes, and being away from family. It is not easier to do this anywhere else. Now that I am a sophomore and have adjusted to the college life, I absolutely love it here. Just make sure you give it a fair change and don't give up because it's too hard.
Academic Rigor
The classes are more challenging here than anywhere else. Don't let it get to you. Don't get overwhelmed by it. All the hard work will pay off in the end. Just stay dedicated to what you want to do and push through. It will be worth it in the end.
Dorm Life
The RA's on campus plan many activities to get to know your floor/unit. I suggest going to as many of them as you can in order to build the family.
Food and Dining
Although DS gets sickening sometime, they have many healthier options than other schools. They also have a wide variety and try to provide with numerous options.
What to do for fun
CEC plans many activities for students to attend. The Fargo-Moorhead area itself also provides many things for college students to end. With three colleges in the area, there is plenty for college students to do
Bang for the buck
The school is expensive, but the quality of the academics make up for it.

Mai from Minneapolis, MN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am always learning something new and interesting in most of my classes. Of course there are lots of reading required, but that just helps you understand the idea more when you discuss it in class. Professors challenge your ideas so you can think critically, which is actually kind of fun.
Am enjoying being here
If you don't immerse yourself in any of the school activities here then you'll be bored out off your mind. The musicals they have here are wonderful and great because the students are actually passionate about what they do. The clubs here are super fun and they don't require you to go to every meeting. I love it here!
Tips for prospective students
Concordia College is like it's own little community. If you don't like people in your space all the time and don't like how the school is always offering something to do then this probably isn't the right school for you.