Emerson College
Boston, MA, USA

Reviews

Emerson College

Erika from Trainer, PA

a current student here
40 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Emerson is teaching me a great deal about the arts that I was never able to learn in my basic college-prep high school program. As a Writing, Literature, and Publishing major, I'm learning a lot about how real world events influence the creation of films, theatre, and books.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love attending Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts. We are located right in the heart of the city in the theatre district, so there is so much to see and do within walking distance. When I first moved in to college, my new friends and I spent a lot of time adventuring around the city discovering all the amazing sites and dining the city has to offer. The Emerson population is also a very diverse, accepting one, so no matter what, you'll feel welcomed by our friendly students.
Bang for the buck
I absolutely feel like I'm getting my money's worth in my education at Emerson College. Emerson has also been working very hard in spite of the recession to keep annual costs from increasing too much, and through budget cuts and distribution of financial aid, they have succeeded in minimizing tuition increase.
Tips for prospective students
You must be involved outside the classroom at Emerson College to get the most out of your education. While you learn a lot in class, you gain as much if not more experience and knowledge for your field while involved in extracurricular activities in which you can apply your talents and skills. For example, I am a copy editor for the school paper, the Berkeley Beacon and will hopefully be involved more this year with the Publishing Club and a literary magazine.
Great for these types of students
Artists (Filmmakers, Actors, Writers), Creators, Ambitious Dreamers, those who want to make a difference through creation and expression.

from Massachusetts

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Emerson College is filled with motivated and talented young individuals who strive for success. I never expected to learn as much as I did my first semester at college. As a broadcast journalism major, I have had the opportunity to get involved in my schools broadcasting organizations. These award-winning student run organizations include EIV news and The Emerson Channel. Both of these organizations have taught me how to work with cameras and gave me a better learning on how to report news.
Am enjoying being here
College is going to be fun, no matter where you go. You're free for the first time. The advantage that Emerson College has over many other colleges is that it is right in the heart of Boston. There is always something to do. Although Emerson College is not a huge party school, there is Boston University, Boston College, Northeastern University and many others right around the area. Newbury St. is right around the corner; there is a movie theater right next to us; and there are lots of concerts!
Bang for the buck
Emerson College is extremely expensive, as you already might know. However, it's worth it. The opportunities that you get from this school can't compare to anywhere else.
Tips for prospective students
Tips: 1) Don't let reviews make your decision. You will read bad reviews, and you will read good reviews. Focus on what is more important for your future. 2) If you're unsure about Emerson College because of the party-scene, don't let that you hold you back. Your education is far more important and trust me, you will have fun if you know the right places to go. 3) You have probably read that Emerson College has a lot of gay people. It does. However, there are plenty of other guys and gals!
Great for these types of students
If you're future ambitions include broadcasting, acting, writing, etc. Emerson College is the place to be. It will put your foot in the right door.

Brittany from Kyle, TX

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Emerson is a magical school filled with people that are super-accepting in one of the most magical cities in the world. Unfairly stereotyped as a hipster school, it's surprising how many Emerson kids break the supposed stereotype. If you have a passion, this is the place to pursue it.
Tips for prospective students
Put something on your app that isn't necessarily academic. I got in with a 3.29 GPA and wrote my essay on how Hermione Granger inspired me as a person. They are interested in you as a person, not as a name with an SAT/ACT score and a GPA!
Academic Rigor
Classes can be hard if you seek out the hard classes. If classes are hard, they are always rewarding in some form by being really interesting. Otherwise the workload isn't bad (the staff at Emerson wants you to pursue your passions in AND out of the classroom).
Dorm Life
It really depends on the building you're in. Little Building is a bit too 'old' for some snooty people and communal showers/bathrooms suck, but it's not too bad. Paramount is really far away from the other three buildings. Piano Row is regarded as the best for its cafe, large gym, and being a relatively modern building, it doesn't creep out people as much. Colonial is supposedly nice and quiet (it houses only 70 people) and has the mail room that you'll be heading to when you need packages.
Food and Dining
On-campus dining is a bit wibbly-wobbly. The Dining Hall is a buffet and while most of the time there are good items in the 'home cooking' section, sometimes there will be nothing exciting in the rotation. You can make requests via the comment board though. There's also the Max in Piano Row which serves pretty good burgers n' fries, Emerson's Cafe (the Starbucks clone with some yummy sammiches), and Paramount Cafe (which I've been told is good). The Dunkin Donuts that has a door leading into the Little Building is not affiliated with Emerson, so don't try to use your BoardBucks there. Offcampus dining is good because it's Boston, but it can get pricey real quick. In the middle of the buildings we have an alleyway that leads to City Place, which is its own food court that has fairly cheap-ish prices on food.
What to do for fun
Go to the oldest park in the nation, the Common, which is across the street.
Go to Loew's Theater across the street.
Chinatown is fun with a group of people (not at night). It's located across the street.
Right across from the T so you can go anywhere in the city quickly.
Take the Freedom Trail on Boston.
Shop on Newbury Street and at Fanueil Hall.
Help lost tourists when you get to know the city! Be a nice Bostonian.
Bang for the buck
It's pricey, but Emerson is a well-respected school. Unfortunately there's not a whole lot of financial aid (especially if you didn't get a scholarship). The years you spend here will make your career, though.
Great for these types of students
Motivated students, people who are passionate about what they do. If you don't know what you don't want to do, don't spend a bunch of money going here.
Clubs and Activities
There is a club here for everyone. We even have a fierce Quidditch team.
Greek Life
We have like, one or two Greek orgs? You hardly ever see them around unless it's at the Org Fair or one of their rare fliers.
Campus Safety
Be smart. Don't text and walk. Look alert. Look confident. Look discretely over your shoulder now and then. Boston is safe but crime does happen. Just don't be in the Common at night and generally keep your evening walks to groups and stop around 6 to be safe.

Girl from PA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I knew that I wanted to major in screenwriting before I started applying to schools, so much of my search in high school was dedicated to finding somewhere that offered a program that was right for me, and Emerson was absolutely the right choice. Unlike other schools with comparable programs, Emerson starts every student in on their respective major right away. Rather than taking irrelevant courses or general education courses for the first year or so, Emerson allows and encourages students to mix it up. I'm going to be a sophomore, and I've already taken a number of courses pertinent to my major.

The professors are one of the best components of the college. Every professor I have had thus far has been enthusiastic, engaging, and knowledgeable. Many of the professors still work in their fields, which make them invaluable resources to students going into such nebulous areas as film, advertising, journalism, etc. The professors are also extremely approachable, available, and interested in helping their students reach their maximum potential and explore every opportunity. I was interested in an internship for the summer, but I didn't know how to go about applying, and so emailed one of my professors from the first semester. That professor had forwarded my email by the next day to another professor whom I hadn't met and she felt to be more knowledgeable, and this professor met with me on several occasions to help me in my endeavor.

Additionally, the classes are all very interesting, in part because the professors all seem to have such genuine love for what they're doing. The student body is inventive, intelligent, and committed, so you learn about as much from your peers as you do from the professors and classes. I haven't met an unfriendly student at Emerson yet. And although the classes may not be the most rigorous in the universe, it's accurate to say they are what you make them. One could probably skate by with decent grades and minimal effort, but of cou...
Am enjoying being here
Emerson College has the best location of any school, in my opinion. Boston, Massachusetts is hailed as one of the best college towns in the country, and rightly so. There are so many schools in the area that it's impossible to run out of places to go on the weekend and people to meet--there's so much diversity that it's also impossible to get bored. Emerson is right in the heart of the city, located across from the Boston Common and Public Gardens, which are both gorgeous, green areas; down the road from Chinatown, which has some awesome food and cheap groceries; a fifteen minute walk from the North End, Boston's Little Italy which houses some of the best, most authentic Italian food you'll find; up the street from Newbury Street, lined with high-end stores and great food; and literally across the street from the T station, which can take you anywhere else you want to go.

Beyond its location, Emerson's student body is wonderful. Everyone is interesting, friendly, and engaging, and there's never a shortage of events on campus. The dorms are the nicest I've seen, and the food is as good as any. My overall experience so far has been positive without fail--the only downside is that the wi-fi is a little finicky in the dorms, but word on the street is that they're looking to fix that. In sum, I'm enjoying my time at Emerson immensely.
Bang for the buck
There's no way around it. Emerson isn't cheap. It really, really isn't cheap. The tuition and living expenses aren't necessarily a bargain, and living in Boston certainly isn't a thrifty dream, but it's definitely worth it. The college is excellent, and it affords connections that make Emerson more than worth its slightly exorbitant fee. The dorms are awesome and the food is good, so the living expenses are justified; living in Boston in general is expensive, so the college can't really be faulted for its price being a little lofty. Although the college costs more than I would ideally like, even if I could go back and do the college search all over again, I wouldn't change it for anything.
Tips for prospective students
Get involved! Emerson is full of interesting, creative people, and the best place to meet them is at club meetings or film shoots. There are constantly fliers all around campus and emails are sent out, as well as the occasional facebook message, when something comes up -- don't ignore it, go! Your experience at Emerson is definitely what you make it. Surround yourself with great people (which isn't hard), work to your full potential, ask questions, get involved, play a sport, go to parties, read every assignment, proof read your essays twice -- don't skimp on your end of educating yourself, and Emerson won't skimp on you.
Great for these types of students
Emerson is a great place for creative, social, and smart students. If you want to make a difference, if you want to do something great, there's no better place to be. If you find yourself turning up your nose at the students involved with the arts at your high school, you probably should think long and hard before attending, because the campus is definitely dominated by a very eccentric demographic. Sports, while present and generally decent, aren't a huge part of Emerson's culture, so if you're looking to go to football games and pep rallies, this isn't your school. However, the athletic department is great and, by virtue of its size, closely knit, so it's a great place to be for athletes, as long as you're not expecting some kind of notoriety for your athleticism. Emerson does, however, have a niche for everyone, and the campus is very diverse so far as types of students go, so I'd really, really recommend visiting the campus before opting to attend and getting a feel for the environment and people.

Dave from Somerville, MA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Emerson is the school where you'll cry when you see the bill. You'll have to keep reminding yourself that this school is getting you where you want to be and they throw in so many extras along the way you'll get caught up in the experience and forget about the $50K tuition bill. The people you meet are all supportive and the few that aren't do not get too far
Tips for prospective students
Apply if you know what you want to do. Transfers- Work twice as hard to get on your track and get involved as much as you can.
Academic Rigor
Classes are longer than one would expect and registering is competitive compared to State schools.
Dorm Life
They hate transfers in terms of housing. They dangle the prospect of it like a toy in front of a cat
Food and Dining
One of the worst in the area. Don't worry, the students are so good, they are petitioning to change it currently.
What to do for fun
Act in a student film
Write a student film
Student rush tickets to shows
Open mic nights
Plenty of intramural sports
Plenty of guest lectures and panels
Huge movie selection in the library
You're going to be watching tons of netflix even though there is so much to do
Bang for the buck
You get a lot from Emerson. The amount of people who get ons and connections once they graduate is surprisingly high given the competition in most media/performance fields. You're paying for the connections with this school, but it's worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Looking to expand into the Transportation building on Boylston Place.
Great for these types of students
Acting/performers, Media enthusiasts, socially awkward and extroverted people
Clubs and Activities
Tons of options for all interests
Greek Life
It exists
Campus Safety
Check in with ID to every building. No one can sneak in.

Emily from Edinboro, PA

researching this school
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Emerson is a beautiful, alternative school perfect for those who want an out-of-the-box college experience. As I'm looking at it, I am stunned by the incredible facilities of the College as well as its commitment to education in the communication arts. I've honestly never seen any school like it and I'm completely in love.
Tips for prospective students
Be you, artsy, passionate you. Emerson looks for originality as well as your character, so be honest in your application, and remember, this school isn't for everybody. If you decide to come here, you have to know what you want to do: Emerson is very limited in terms of majors, so if you're interested in, say, Journalism and Bioengineering, you're going to need to look at a more comprehensive university.
Academic Rigor
I haven't experienced any classes, but from what I understand, the work isn't difficult, but it is very hands-on. Expect lots of unorthodox assignments!
Dorm Life
I haven't lived in one, of course, but I did visit the campus: the dorms were pretty spacious, and suite-style living looks very nice. It is nice how much is included in one building: you can live your entire collegiate career in one building, if you would so choose. I would want to live in Paramount with the Performing Arts students, which has rehearsal spaces in the basement, the Art Deco styled theater, and a cafe for late rehearsal nights.
Food and Dining
From what I've heard, the food on campus isn't the greatest, but you're in the middle of Boston, and the food options off-campus are limitless.
What to do for fun
Quiddich, quiddich, quiddich!

Jacqueline from Laguna Niguel, CA

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Emerson is one of those schools that allows you to study and pursue what you want to from the very beginning. A lot of what you learn is hands on and you begin working the first day you arrive. Aside from your education, Emerson has so many organizations on campus that also provide opportunities for you to learn. The Emerson Channel is Emerson's college broadcast network. Students are able to use real equipment to produce shows of their choice. They are able to get involved in all aspects, talent, production, writing, etc.
Am enjoying being here
I love Emerson College so much! What other place can you gain experience, in the city, and feel prepared for your future. I truly believe that Emerson provides you with all the tools to succeed, but it is up to you to achieve it. The professors are professional individuals in their field, that form a personal relationship with each of their students. A professor this semester actually helped me to receive an internship this summer at a local news station in California. The Emerson Student community is one that is heavily involved in work and experience.
Bang for the buck
Emerson is one of the pricier schools in Boston. But I do believe that it is worth it. I believe education is priceless and Emerson is a place that teaches and educates its students in exactly what they want to do for their future. Also, with proper planning the finance office will work with you and you can apply for scholarships.
Tips for prospective students
1. Plan ahead: The emerson student knows what they want to do, so have an insight of what you want to get involved in.
2. Be Prepared: Work in advance with your finances so you will be able to attend the college.
3. Work Hard: Get ready to work very hard, but in things that you are actually interested in.
4. Have fun: There is so much to do at Emerson that you will have so much fun.
5. Don't be afraid to say NO!
Great for these types of students
Students who are interested in pursuing a career in communications. Students who are driven and determined.
Students who want a hands on experience with their education.
Students who are interested in the city of Boston.
Students who love indie music and enjoyed their theater class in high school.
Students who have an opinion about the world and aren't afraid to show it.

Emily from Campton, NH

a past student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Emerson College's Film Program is a great place for determined artists to find their voice and hone their filmmaking skills. The professor's are all very attentive and try their best to help each student get the education they need in any given class. Overall the academics and vibrant Boston cityscape make it a great place for students that know where they want to go in their careers.
Tips for prospective students
It can be overwhelming to enter the extracurricular scene in regards to filmmaking, but try not to be deterred, or feel as though you have to join every film set to move ahead in your studies and career. There are plenty of opportunities to get experience when you want them, but don't be afraid to say no either.
What to do for fun
Boston offers a lot of opportunities to try new things and have fun between classes or on the weekends. Coffee shops, restaurants, parks, gardens, and shops are all within a ten minute walk from the main campus, so you're never short of things to do or see. There is a huge movie theater right across the street from the main campus as well, so you can choose to go catch a film minutes before it starts. Be sure to save your summer job pennies though! Boston offers a lot, but most things come at a price, whether it's shopping, tours, comedy clubs, or sporting events!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There is a side street that I guess most would call an alley on Boylston Street that leads to the City Place Plaza. The Tufte Building on campus is accessed through this alley that is affectionately referred to as Diagon Alley.
Great for these types of students
Emerson is great for people who don't want a typical college experience. The campus is built into the city so the bubble effect that many closed campuses experience isn't found here. People who are creative, outgoing, and not afraid to beat to their own drum thrive at Emerson.
Greek Life
I can't say I know much about the Greek system at Emerson other than I know one exists!
Campus Safety
Don't be fooled by it's negative safety rating on other review sites. Unfortunately one corner of Emerson's campus is technically located on the Boston Common, and that is a place that sees quite a bit of crime when the sun goes down. If you realize that you're living in a city, use common sense, and don't travel alone when you feel you shouldn't, you'll be just fine! It's a city school, so learning to be city smart just comes with the package.

Cassidy from Wakefield, RI

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Emerson is a great school for those who do well in a liberal arts setting. You will have interesting and intelligent professors and have some of the best resources and facilities at your fingertips. And you can't beat the location!
Tips for prospective students
Apply early if you wish yo be considered for scholarships.
Academic Rigor
I am in my second semester as a graduate student. First semester was relatively easy, but the academic rigor has gone up dramatically and I get the sense that most programs are like this.
Dorm Life
I do not live on campus, so I can't answer this.
Food and Dining
Again, not a campus resident, so I don't eat the food. The Emerson's Cafe is pretty good and there are lots of places around to get food.
What to do for fun
Explore Boston! Visit museums, go to bars and clubs, spend time on the Common in nice weather. And there are lots of on-campus events too if you want to stay around campus.
Bang for the buck
I give it five stars now because I see many Emerson grads who go on to be very successful. But I don't think you can accurately gauge the bang for your buck at any school until you see what your degree will do for you.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Quidditch team. Seriously.
Great for these types of students
Artistic, liberal, city-lovers, students who do better in a small setting.
Clubs and Activities
So many options!!!
Greek Life
It exists, but there are no houses and it's not a big deal.
Campus Safety
Emerson has its own police force and they are always accessible.

Sarah

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
My classes are great! Everything is hands on. I've already been thrown into the street to learn how to be a journalist, written various articles, and felt like I really got something out of every class. The classes are very long so it can drag on (about 75 to 105 minutes each), but I always leave feeling like I learned something.
All of the professors have some sort of background in what they're teaching, and may even be working in the field at the moment, which gives you an advantage because you're learning from the pros.
Am enjoying being here
There's so much to do on campus and in Boston. I've joined many clubs, including radio, newspaper, and Imagine. There's many opportunities for any interests or majors, and if you don't like any, you can start your own. It's also very close and in walking distance to all the fun things in Boston, like Fanuel Hall, Prudential Center, and Newbury Street.
The people are very nice, there's a great atmosphere and everyone's very friendly. Students are very outgoing and the staff and faculty are great!
The food is also great. There's many options and I never feel bogged down by them. I can go to the dining hall, conveniently located in my dorm building, or one of the three cafes Emerson has to offer. They all have good food and decent prices.
Bang for the buck
Emerson isn't great with financial aid and giving out money, so I'm in a lot of debt right now, but it's definitely worth it. I couldn't be happier, and I'd much rather be here and in debt while having the time of my life, than at my previous college, barely paying anything and feeling miserable.
Tips for prospective students
Get involved! There's so much to do and it's a great addition to college life! It'll give you great connections and experience that will look good on your resume! There's a lot of opportunities waiting for you.
Great for these types of students
The students tend to be very eccentric and hipster, if that's your style you'll fit in well. Very good for artsy people or people interested in film, the more creative and hands-on you are, the better you'll fit in.