Elizabethtown College
Elizabethtown, PA, USA

Reviews

Elizabethtown College

Beth

a current student here
22 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am enjoying being here
The campus is absolutely gorgeous. It's great spending time after a theatre class just laying out on the Dell sunbathing and catching up with friends. Everyone here is extremely friendly and helpful; you'll never feel alone.
Bang for the buck
It's a very expensive school, but it is most certainly worth it. Elizabethtown provides a fantastic quality of education, especially with programs such as music, occupational therapy, allied health (pre-med), and education. There are connections and opportunities that students at much larger schools would never get. And the close work with the faculty is priceless. The chance to work closely with professors is great, and advisors truly get to know their students and help them make the best choices for their future. All in all, that $40,000 a year is completely worth it.
Great for these types of students
If you're looking for a close-knit community, this is the perfect place for you. Almost everyone lives on campus, so it's easy to hang out with friends anytime. With an enrollment of about 2000, you'll end up walking down the sidewalk or getting lunch in the Marketplace and seeing loads of familiar faces. It's a great place for anyone social; although we don't have fraternities or sororities, we definitely don't need them - there's always enough going on around campus. And the proximity of Harrisburg, Lancaster, Mt. Joy, and Hershey means that you will never be bored.

Students here definitely need to work hard, however. Many classes require a lot of work - especially the science classes like biology, chemistry, and physics - and certain majors like music education and music therapy will leave you with very little free time.

Overall, if you're looking for huge parties every night of the week, stick with Penn State or the University of Delaware. But if you're fine spending some nights working in the beautiful High Library and watching movies with friends in the lounge of Myer, and waiting til the weekend for some ridiculous shenanigans at the senior townhouse quad, go ahead. Etown is definitely the place for you!

Steve from Joppa, MD

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Their core program is allowing me to become a well rounded individual.
Am enjoying being here
It's such a small college, so I compare it to being in a small community. The students and professors there are very polite. Since it's a small school, the professors can give the students more one-on-one time.
Tips for prospective students
The college it expensive to attend, but hunt for the right scholarships and it will be well worth the effort!
Great for these types of students
For students who enjoy having close relationships with professors and peers. Etown is the right choice if you like having a home away from home.

Allan from Sellersville, PA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The International Business (IB) Program is extremely well-run and is an excellent program with its study abroad, modern language, internship, international studies, and business componens. I have been able to double major in IB and Spanish as well as have a minor in Asian studies. As a liberal arts college, students are required to complete a Core program of studies, which definitely makes them well-rounded; I was able to complete most of mine through Advanced Placement tests from high school.
Am enjoying being here
I quickly met my closest friends at Elizabethtown shortly after arriving on campus. Since the campus is so small, it is extremely easy to get to know people--the first-year program allows students the ability to form a close-knit community right away. Since classes are small, I have found making friends easy. There are plenty of clubs from which to choose on campus and the campus is within easy access of Harrisburg, Hershey, and Lancaster. Some students do go home for the weekend which can be a downer, but my friends and I remain on campus almost every weekend and manage to have a good time.
Bang for the buck
Some programs are definitely better than others, and you should do your research to compare your prospective major with that of other schools. The IB program as well as the sciences and occupational therapy are exceptionally well-run at Elizabethtown. It is a very expensive school, but academic scholarships are available, and a degree from Elizabethtown should eventually pay for itself.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely go for a campus tour and have an overnight visit to get a feel for the campus. Make sure you're comfortable living in a rural setting and go in with a positive attitude. Do your research on academic programs and financial aid before going.
Great for these types of students
Students looking for business, sciences, or occupational therapy
Active students with positive attitudes and a go-getter mentality.

Elise from Aberdeen, MD

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Elizabethtown College is a school that feels like home. There are so many ways to get involved and meet people on campus that there is never a dull moment. I love Elizabethtown because of the excellent academics, wonderful fellow peers and staff members, and the opportunities it provides to succeed!
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to get involved! Joining clubs and trying things that you have never done before is not only a fun and exciting experience, but it is the easiest way to meet some truly great people who share the same interests as you! Elizabethtown offers so many different clubs, volunteer activities, and events that sometimes it is hard to choose! But don't sweat it-- Etown is a great place and your first year of college will be amazing.
Academic Rigor
Elizabethtown prides itself on its small classrooms and excellent professors. Some classes will challenge you more than others, but professors are always will to meet with you outside of class and will help to ensure you feel comfortable in their classroom and with the material. The classes are enjoyable but put your knowledge and study skills to the test!
Dorm Life
Dorm life is pretty nice at Elizabethtown. There are multiple dorms to choose from, and although freshman do not get to request a specific dorm in their first year, each of the buildings is home to students of all years. Freshman may be mixed right in with sophomores and juniors. Each of the buildings is updated with heating and air and wi-fi access, and the Residence Assistants are always willing to help you solve issues and create a fun living environment.
Food and Dining
Food at Elizabethtown is that of a typical college. Nothing fancy, but there are always healthy options like the salad bar and the omelet station. For those who prefer awesome desserts though, the dinging hall here is for you! Desserts never disappoint at school-- there's a self-serve ice cream station and there are always plenty of cakes and cookies to choose from. The Jays Nest, our school's quick mart/quick food stop is great for your late night snack or mid-day lunch break. It's open late so many students will spend their evenings there studying with friends or grabbing a late night quesadilla!
What to do for fun
There are so many things to do for fun on campus. Many people spend their time dancing with the school's dance club Emotion (it's the largest club on campus!) Other people play sports, join intramurals, play a round of water basketball in the pool, or lay out in the Dell when the sun is shining! If you plan on having a car on campus, Hershey Park is only 20 minutes away and Park City Mall is close as well. Don't worry if you won't have a car though-- Etown is always hosting comedy nights, outings like to New York City, and other activities to keep the student body entertained.
Bang for the buck
School is expensive, we know. Especially a private school like Etown College. However, the experience I'm getting from attending a school such as this one, and the academic power is definitely worth the loans at the end of your four (or five, fellow Occupational Therapy majors!) years. There are so many opportunities that arise when attending such a small-- but definitely well-known in the area-- school like Elizabethtown.
Great for these types of students
Etown is great for many students, but especially those who are come from very small hometowns. The student body is not very large, and you will recognize faces every day! Your professors know you by name, and the feeling of home is ever present. Etown is also great for students who just want to branch out, meet new people, and try new things. With the amount of clubs and activities on school, and with the ability to experience new things, Elizabethtown opens up even the quietest of kids!
Clubs and Activities
I could go on and on about the number of clubs and activities at Elizabethtown College. I've said it once and I'll say it again-- there's so much to do! You can dance your heart out, take Zumba or Kick Boxing classes, try your hand at an intramural sport, hang out with the dogs at K-9 club, or help run Relay for Life. There's something for everyone here.

Stephanie from Crystal Lake, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Tips for prospective students
etown is trying to gather more kids with a diverse background, so if you're from outside of pa and surrounding states, you've already got an advantage above everyone else.
Academic Rigor
the hardness or easiness all depends on the classes you take and how willing you are to seek help. the core classes are pretty straight forward while your major classes can be challenging.
Dorm Life
all the dorms are pretty good and the ra's do a good job of creating a community atmosphere.
Food and Dining
really good in the beginning, but the food definitely gets old after a while.
What to do for fun
since the town is pretty much dead, the campus does a pretty good job of keeping everyone entertained.
Bang for the buck
truly, etown knows that they are not a cheap school, so they really try their best to provide excellent financial aid! the people at the business office are also really nice and helpful if you have any questions.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
too many to share, but they're all fun and random and they're what make attending etown so much fun!
Great for these types of students
for students who want to have a place that becomes their home and their friends become part of your family. also for students who want to form bonds with their professors.
Clubs and Activities
there are tons of clubs, and the members of those clubs are all really committed. when a club hosts an activity, there's always non-members in attendance which is great to see.
Greek Life
there are no fraternities or sororities on campus, so if you're looking for greek life, etown isn't for you.
Campus Safety
i've never felt unsafe walking on campus at night by myself. the campus walkways are lined with campo phones so that you can call and get a ride if need be.

Shanae from Newark, DE

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
While attending Elizabethtown College, you certainly learn a lot. This institution offers a great education program for many types of different majors and minors. You always have something you could work on.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy being at Elizabethtown. There is always something to do, and something going. There are many student run events. This college has a great sense of community and friendliness. Many students can leave their personal belongings and do not have to worry about theft. This school is not only about education, but integrity and respect.
Bang for the buck
The cost for tuition is very expensive, but you get a great education. It cost makes it hard for students that have a passion to attend this school nearly impossible. I knew a few students who really want to attend but they just simply couldn't afford it. So get as many scholarships as you can!
Tips for prospective students
Etown offers some great services, so take advantage of them. They offer free tutoring and much more. Do not be afraid to get a personal tutor, or to attend your Professors' office hours. They offer many types of support help in order for you to be successful.
Great for these types of students
This college is great for students who are looking for both academics, but still want to be apart of sports and other organizations. It is also great for students who are looking to have small class room sizes, professors that will take the time to know who you are and a sense of community.

Wayne from Prince Frederick, MD

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I have had the opportunity to spend the night twice on campus, both of them one year apart. It's a lot of fun, but this most recent time, I had the opportunity to attend classes, and I can tell that I will learn a lot. The professors are really nice and care about every single one of the students.
Will enjoy being here
It has a tight-knit community feel. You will not get this any where else!
Bang for the buck
It may be expensive, but with the right job after college, you'll have those college loans paid off in no time! Remember, you get what you pay for!

Aubrey from Macungie, PA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A very beautiful campus with tons of nice people/ We're like a family here, and whoever you meet will be a new friend!
Tips for prospective students
Just come and visit. Don't let anyone else's opinions sway you. Make the decision for yourself. I did, and now it's always a great day to be a Jay!
Academic Rigor
They have amazing programs and are very accommodating with whatever you want to study.
Dorm Life
Everyone cares so much about how you're doing, and I wouldn't trade dorm life for anything. All the dorms are lots of fun.
Food and Dining
All the food is great. A world of choices every day.
What to do for fun
Whether you enjoy all the fun activities on campus or go into town to find entertainment, there is always something to do.

Victoria from Silver Spring, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Very friendly and close knit-atmosphere. Pleasant campus. Truely caring and passionate professors.
Tips for prospective students
if you're looking for a big university, this is not the place for you. Also, keep in mind that it started as a liberal art school, so to graduate you often need a number of classes out side of your major. However, it really gets you good exposure if you're not 100% positive of what you want to do in the future. There is a wide selection of courses to forfill these requirements, so don't worry about being stuck in some dry class you have no interest in-- you get to pick what topic you under the college's categories you want yourself!
Academic Rigor
it really depends on you major. some, such as engenering and computer sciences have a huge workload
Dorm Life
Levels of activity depend on which dorm you choose. However, showers are always above your average state school showers. They always have warm water, and I have never heard complaints about mysterious molds and slime. Rooms are fairly spacious and they provide you with a desk, chair, nigh table, towel rack, and dresser in nearly all the dorms. Beds are adjustable in height and mattresses are comfortable. There are study rooms on every floor in the traditional dorm setting, which is very useful and convenient! Heating every once in a while goes on the fritz, but upperclassmen can teach you all the tricks, so it isn't even a bother anymore!
Food and Dining
Some things at dining are absolutely amazing, while others are bland. Still, I have never had anything that made me feel disgusted or sick. You kind of have to learn what is the really good stuff. Look around and you will learn where the good stuff is- pierogies, carrot cake, lemon bars, man and cheese, and ribs are heavenly.
What to do for fun
Student life is super involved and always seems to be hosting events. There are a surprising number of clubs and extracirricular activities, for a small school. It's extremely rare to find someone not involved in some activity on campus outside of classes.Live prize competitions, improv, cultural events, and movies are also very frequent. It's hard to find a weekend where there isn't an event going on (except during breaks). There is a theater nearby and the town of Elizabethtown is very close and pleasant place to visit with nice antique shops, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Hershey is also really close by if you have a car.
Bang for the buck
It is expensive, but they do give out a lot of scholarships, many of them cover half of the tuition or more. Scholarships are also easier to keep than at most colleges as well, I believe the minimum GPA to maintain after you recieve an academic scholarship is 2.0. (Most colleges require either 2.75 or 3.0, which is really diffcult to do- some semesters are much harder than others. It also means that the freshman lag in grades before students adjust is not as harsh.)

There are also a lot of included services many students are not aware of. If you take advantage of there opportunities, you really are getting a good value for your education and personal care needs (they offer many counseling and medical services free).
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
We have a rivalry with Messiah college. For some reason, people throw marshmallows at the messiah players during the first soccer game of the year. It's a little obnoxious, but funny to watch. (People will also throw marshmallows at each other in the stands- this part is much more fun and less obnoxious!)

Also, we have Mr. Etown each spring. This is a sort of male beauty pageant. Guys compete against each other for the title of mr. Etown. It becomes a grand production with guys doing dances, and showcasing talents. It is a really fun night and the whole campus comes out to see it and cheer on their friends in the show.
Great for these types of students
Students who are motivated and enjoy anything outside of their major. To get the best out of Etown, be a social person and get to know a lot of people around campus. It is a small school, but because of high academic rigor, people can often make the mistake of keeping to themselves too much and falling behind socially.
Clubs and Activities
There are a lot of fun clubs and activities on campus for almost any interest you can think of. Nearly all clubs are involved in hosting at least one campus wide event per year. However, you sometimes have to look for clubs because if you miss signing up for them in the beginning of the year, it is difficult to join up and fit into routines.
Greek Life
No Greek life. We do have traditional homes for groups of like-minded students to arrange to live together in, but this is far from a sorority or fraternity.
The closest we have to a frat is the palace which is a house which the boys from lacrosse often live in after freshman year. They do host parties, but as far as i know do not exclude other teams or homes from entering.
Campus Safety
Campus security is always patrolling, and there is always at least 1 RA on duty. We also have a mobile safety app. Security is even alright if you just call for an escort if you feel unsafe walking at night in the dark, or something similar. Binge drinking and use of illegal drugs is very rare.

Shannon

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Although the price to go to Elizabethtown may seem intimidating, you never actually pay the full dollar shown. Elizabethtown College offers many scholarship opportunities to allow you to attend the close-knit, welcoming community without any added stress. After your first semester at E-town, you'll be recognizing faces everywhere you go.
Tips for prospective students
To the prospective students: Don't be afraid to take the campus tours! Although the distance from the BSC to Schlosser Hall might seem intimidating at first, I promise you won't regret it! E-town college is such a small campus that you can literally walk from one side of campus to the other in roughly 5 minutes! So take your time, enjoy the beauty surrounding you and figure out if E-town is the best fit for you by asking students you see on campus or dropping by a professor's office!
Academic Rigor
Elizabethtown College has high standards for academic achievement. That being said, tutors are available at no cost to the student and most professors have open office hours to assist students with questions and problems.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is very respectable at Elizabethtown College. Each floor of the on-campus dorms has it's own community standards that YOU help decide. As you walk down the halls of residence buildings, you will see many doors open and if you peek in you'll most likely be welcomed with a smile. As finals week approaches, E-town enforces 24 hour quiet hours in all residence halls to ensure the best atmosphere for success.
Food and Dining
Elizabethtown College offers some of the best food I've ever tasted among all of the schools I've visited and attended camps at.