George Fox University
Newberg, OR, USA

Reviews

George Fox University

Dana from Harrisburg, OR

a current student here
27 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am finally being challenged in the classroom again. I almost floated through high school, but George Fox pushes me in the classroom. It expands my thinking, and the teachers are friendly. The ratio of teachers to students is low, so it's really easy to form a relationship with them, and from there, they challenge you to do your best. The classes offered are also wide and exciting, with all sorts of options to fill needed criteria.
Am enjoying being here
The academics, student life, dorm life, and sports are fantastic! There's ALWAYS something going on, from intramurals to worship, late night breakfast to serve trips, and from student government to student relationships, one has to work hard to be bored. There is such a feel of community, and the school is a wonderful center for learning and playing.
Bang for the buck
Fox is expensive. Really expensive. But I LOVE it here. I would pay it over and over again to get the experiences, knowledge, and relationships I'm making. The campus is small enough to always know someone, but big enough to always meet new people. The low student-to-teacher ratio pays off when you can see a teacher you had for a semester 2 years ago, and they still remember your name and that joke in class.
Tips for prospective students
First of all, go to a Bruin Preview. Visiting the school shows you around, but when you stay overnight, you get to be a part of the campus, meet other incoming students, and experience what it means to be at George Fox. Next, don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask students, teachers, or your counselors whatever questions you might have. That's why they're there. And finally, sit in a class and meet with a professor of your intended major or a area that interests you. This will help you prepare yourself for what's ahead.
Great for these types of students
George Fox has a wide range of students. Though it is a Christian university, there are many people who aren't Christian that attend, because of the quality of the programs offered. It's great for people who want to be involved and be in an uplifting environment. You won't become a number at Fox, but rather a name and a face people will remember. It is a university with awesome academics, and amazing extracurricular activities. If you have an interest in something, anything really, Fox has something to offer you.

Aloha, OR

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There is a lot more to learn at Fox than just academics. While learning about your area of interest and intended career is, of course, the main reason for going to college, the college experience on the whole helps to create a smooth transition from being your parents' child to an independent adult. George Fox, specifically, is a fantastic place for not only academic growth, but also spiritual and personal growth. The safe but very real environment at Fox allows students to grow healthily, but without the sheltered and hidden environment that some people seem to think Christian schools all have.
Am enjoying being here
Fox has definitely been a good experience for me. There is a strong sense of community at Fox, instead of the rivalry and drama that seems to pervade some other colleges. Seeing seniors hang out with freshmen is a normal occurence at Fox. There is no hierarchy of authority with the years of students here. As for dorm life, I enjoyed it so much my first year that I am still excited to live in a dorm this next year with my same roommate and many of my floormates from last year. There are also TONS of community activities going on. Dances, easter egg hunts, pancake nights, musical events, basketball games, lip sync competitions, Rock Band battles, and more.
Bang for the buck
Like most private and Christian universities, Fox is really expensive. Most people can get a pretty decent amount in scholarships, though, so that helps. But even with the high cost, Fox is worth it. It's worth it to me to live on campus, to be with the people here, to learn from the professors here, to pull all-nighters with my classmates that are half studying and half goofing off, to start out undecided in my major and find something that I think would be worth spending my life on that I didn't know I could do before. I'd pay for it again.
Tips for prospective students
Come visit anytime! Bruin Preview is always a good time since there are more things planned for visiting students to do. But anytime is a good time to spend the night and see real life on campus. And when you visit, or if you can't visit, ask questions -- any questions! Just hang out with us. I know when I first visited I was shy and intimidated because I forgot that the people I was staying with were real students, not salespeople for the school. Even the tiniest details you might think are dumb to ask about are worthwhile questions to ask. If you're wondering about something, it's not dumb.
Great for these types of students
While Fox is a Christian university and is definitely Christ-centered, students are not required to be Christian. There is a certain atmosphere here, though, that encourages good clean fun (not in a hokey religious way though) rather than the usual college fare of underage drinking and such. Personally, I find it refreshing not to have to worry about inebriated floormates keeping me awake in the wee hours before an exam. All in all, though, Fox is full of fun people, outgoing people, introverted people, studious people, not-so-studious people -- and we all love it and each other.

Rachel from Newberg, OR

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Wow! I have learned so much from being at Fox so far! Not only academically, but growing as a person spiritually and socially. I am learning like I never have before. I have been challenged, but also, I know that now, I am actually on the road to having the career I have always dreamed about. The professors will tell you here that they want to inspire you to look at topics from different perspectives, or see things from a God-view. I have never had that type of experience before, and I love having that insight from the professors. Right now, I feel like I have been more social than ever before in my life. I meet a new person practically every day, and I am building friendships here that will last a lifetime.
Am enjoying being here
I love being at George Fox. It is so beautiful on campus, and the people are genuine. I am very blessed to be able to come to a university like this. I am definitely developing a home away from home here, and making friends that are like family. The professors treat you like an individual, not just a number in their classroom. Also, the food here is a lot better than high-school cafeteria food. I feel that I am validated, and that I am surrounded by others who I feel comfortable sharing anything with. One of the greatest things about Fox that attracted me in the first place was their value in putting God at the center of everything. I see the Lord doing a mighty work here, and I am grateful to be a part of it.
Bang for the buck
I would say so. I am very fortunate to be here, and I probably would not be able to come if it were not for the generous contributions of my family members. It is a expensive school, but the Lord provided for me to come here. Academics are taken seriously but, you gain so much more than an education from coming here. Also, there is new motivation for getting good grades when you (or your family) are the ones who pays for it. There are countless amounts of opportunities available to be a part of through on campus clubs. If this is the right school for you, there will be a way to come here, whether it be through financial aid, or the generosity of others.
Tips for prospective students
Make a list of goals (academics first off) when and if you come. It is a lot easier to to keep your eye on the goal when you have that list handy when the temptation of distraction rolls around. Secondly, grades are important, but you need time to rest, and just hang out with others (besides your text book) so, get involved. There is bound to be a club that is just right for you that you could make a special contribution to. Next, thou shalt go to chapel! Just kidding, but there is a spiritual life credit minimum that you must earn while attending George Fox. There are way more opportunities for spiritual life credit than needed, but if you do end up coming here, I would challenge you to go more times than required. I have gained insight on topics that I would have never thought of before through the teachings of our speakers. Plus, it will stink if you wait till the last minute to earn your spiritual life credits, like around finals time, and you have to choose between that and studying. Lastly, I would encourage you to pray, whether your day is on cloud nine, or you are stressed to death about that test coming up. If you come to Fox or not, God has a plan for you, and you can trust that He knows what He is doing. That is a lesson I had to learn, and am continuing to learn through out the college experience.
Great for these types of students
If you want to learn more about yourself, and God, George Fox offers you that opportunity. If you look forward to working at your dream job, Fox can help you get there. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone, and be exposed to different cultures, and make friends of different back-grounds, Fox can give you that experience. Lastly, if you want to be challenged to reach your potential, George Fox will make it happen. God Bless you in the decision you make for collage.

Abigail from Canby, OR

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Wow! I won't say this first semester has been easy, but it has been very enlightening! George Fox has really introduced me to college life in a big way! The professors here are all very knowledgable in their fields as well as so obviously enjoying what they teach about. I am never worried about whether my professors know what they are talking about because I realize that they will tell you if they don't know! Then they will look up the answer and get back to you. This teaching technique is not only teaching me things in the classroom, but it is also helping my own studying! You learn things from your professors, the staff, and the students around you, and it has proved a very interesting first semester.
Am enjoying being here
George Fox is amazing! I absolutely love it! The campus is gorgeous, not too big, not too small. The buildings are all very well kept. But, the biggest reason I think I am enjoying Fox is because there is always something going on! From singing Christmas carols on the quad with hot chocolate, cider, and cookies, then listening to the University President read us 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to the Bruin Brawls, Intramurals, and countless clubs, George Fox will never fail to keep you occupied! Newberg is a super town with everything you need pretty much within walking distance. My overall experience here so far has been superb!
Bang for the buck
I will have to say that some of the expenses at George Fox are a bit on the high side. You do get an awesome education, great food, and wonderful living areas, but it is a little pricey. I guess it just depends on you! I do not come from a wealthy family myself, and I know I will have to be paying back college loans for awhile, but there are also many opportunities for scholarships and grants from the school itself. It is a private, Christian college, and for everything they provide I guess the price is reasonable.
Tips for prospective students
Most definitely come and compete in the scholarship competition if at all possible! It will be worth your while. Also, you should try and make it to a Friday at Fox, Bruin Preview, or once you are accepted, Genesis. All of these events are very helpful and beneficial. The academic advisors are there for you to help you with any questions you have! They are so nice and treat everyone like they have known them forever! They get back to you in a timely manner and will answer any and all of your questions. If they don't know the answer to something themselves they will refer you to someone who does. Definitely, definitely talk to an advisor and ask them loads of questions!
Great for these types of students
I really, honestly think that George Fox has a place for everyone! Even though it is a Christian college, they do not force religion on anyone, and they offer many different opportunities for fun for all sorts of people. They have board game club, outdoors club, ultimate frisbee club, biology club, pretty much anything you can think of they have a club for it... But, if they don't have a club for it you can always try and get one started! They are very supportive and it's like living in a community! So, George Fox is great for EVERYONE! :) 'Nuff said!

Corey from Grants Pass, OR

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am not only learning in my classes, but I'm learning in my living area. At Fox, you learn how to be a good roommate, and how to be a good floormate. You also get to learn how to behave as a Christian with people your own age. In addition to this, you do learn many things in classes. The teachers challenge you, but are also very available when you have a question.
Am enjoying being here
There is a great atmosphere at Fox. You feel like you matter because the teachers remember you, and you always see someone you know when you walk to class. It's an intimate atmosphere, and you get to share it with people of the same faith. It's very nice to have something in common with everyone on campus.
Bang for the buck
It's a very expensive school, but they offer a great deal of financial aid. Other universities didn't offer me enough financial aid to make college affordable, but George Fox gave me $28,000 in grants and scholarships. This is a great school, and more affordable than most people think it is.
Tips for prospective students
Everyone should fill out the scholarship application for the school, and everyone should participate in the Scholarship Competition. It's a great way to win some renewable scholarships, and it's not very difficult. Also, do the Early Action deadline so you don't have to pay an application fee.
Great for these types of students
This is a great school for Christian students that want to have fun! There are events that go on daily that allow you to step out of your comfort zone and have a good time. You will only be bored at Fox if you choose to be bored.

Megan from Medford, OR

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am studying what I love, as well as absorbing an appreciation for a wide variety of disciplines.
Am enjoying being here
At Fox you are surrounded by a community of people interested in your growth academically, spiritually, and socially. The professors are interested in you as an individual, willing to meet outside of the classroom. I am a nursing major at GFU and although it is an intensive program, it is not as deadly as they make it out to be. If you enjoy learning, as well as building relationships with your peers and faculty, George Fox is a great pick! You will be hard pressed to find a college that is as friendly, welcoming, and uplifting as George Fox University.
Bang for the buck
Although GFU can be fairly expensive, I would count every penny to be worth it. Always keep your eye open for financial aid, and keep in contact with your financial aid counselor.
Tips for prospective students
Work hard at getting satisfactory test scores on SATs, CLEPs, etc. so that you don't have to spend valuable time taking some of the required classes. Also, if you are interested in any major involving the medical field, take Anatomy in high school if it is available. It is best to get a jump start on the more difficult subjects.
Great for these types of students
Christians who enjoy a caring, encouraging, kind, and fairly studious education. You will grow academically, personally, as well as spiritually.

Hillsboro, Oregon

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There is not a day that goes by where I don't learn something new. Whether I learn something about my major, a fun fact, or I grow in knowledge about my faith, I am constantly learning. Professors take the time to thoroughly explain, dissect and analyze what they teach. You leave class feeling like you learned something and made your time worth while. GFU succeeds in making every class a great one.
Am enjoying being here
Not only does George Fox offer the best in the class room, they also do a great job of creating a fun, Christian faith based environment. The atmosphere at Fox is one you will not find anywhere else. Many fun events take place at George Fox, such as Serve Day, late night movies in the outdoor amphitheater, Bruin Brawl, dances, and many other fun events you can only experience at George Fox University!
Bang for the buck
At George Fox University you never have to worry about not getting help. From helpful professors, the Academic Resource Center in the library, and special tutoring sessions from current students, there is hardly any room to struggle at this University. There is help at every corner on this campus. The professors are ALWAYS there for you, and are always easily accessible. It's obvious this University strives for the best, and they don't offer anything less than that. Every cent spent at GFU, is worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Take advantage of everything Fox has to offer! George Fox has many great opportunities for their students! Take advantage of them and don't be afraid to take risks! Also, don't be afraid to make friends. Everyone at George Fox is there for the same reason; to learn, to succeed and have a great time while doing it! So don't be afraid to try new things, and take advantage of all that Fox has to offer!
Great for these types of students
George Fox has something to offer to everyone. Not only do they have great classes, but they have awesome sports, and extra-curricular activities that appeal to everyone. Even though it is a Christian University, not everyone there is Christian. We get a wide demographic, which really creates a diverse environment. Fox has something to offer to everyone.

Isabella from Newberg, OR

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
george fox university is truly one of the last of it's kind within the christian liberal arts categories for universities. best known for it's connected community, strong academic programs, and faith-based living, george fox is raising the bar for schools across the nation. george fox has more to offer than commonly known private institutions because the heritage and traditions george fox has are things that money can't buy.
Tips for prospective students
i would personally advise you to not focus on the costs of attending george fox until you speak with a financial adviser at george fox. this way you will see how kind and respectful the staff are along with how affordable george fox really is.
secondly, do some research. spread the word to family and friends that you are interested in george fox and try to get personal stories about experiences here so that you can start to see yourself as an integral member of the school, not only a student. search the website to see what clubs or activities you would want to be involved in so you can get plugged in from the beginning.
pray. this is a christian school, and having a relationship with god extends from chapel into the classroom and relationships. i love it and think that's what makes gfu tick, so pray and see if this is what god has planned for you individually.
Academic Rigor
the academics are great at george fox, but the load and intensity of each student depends on their major. nursing and engineering majors have much more of an academic course load than some other majors. overall the teachers are firm and dedicated toward each student's success, whether success means a c or an a average, the main goal is learning based not performance based (that means if you skip class, chances are good they'll remember and ask why).
Dorm Life
being a transfer i have not personally experienced living in a dorm. i have friends that live in dorms and they do enjoy it. dorm life definitely helps establish relationships and more of a family atmosphere amongst students. the variety of on-campus housing is exceptional and ranges from dorms, suites, studio apartments, up to homes. living on-campus for at least one semester is a must experience and if accepted as an ra, you can live on-campus for free for the entire year. :d
Food and Dining
incoming freshmen are required to be on a meal plan but with each year, and for transfer students, meal plans can vary. the food is catered by bon apetit and is generally really good. the cater to students who have alergies, intolerances, and vegans very well while being environmentally conscious. they focus on buying from local farmers to support the community and benefit by getting healthy, wholesome foods. there is a huge variety of options and with just enough creativity and an open mind, you will have great meals.
What to do for fun
the weather is constantly changing here. fun things range immensely but sports are big and there is always something going on around campus. even though newberg is small there is the drive-in theater during sunny months and then $5 tuesdays at a theater across town. between the three local coffee dives, two thrift shops, and random shops in between it's not challenging to get together with a group of friends and have an adventure! hiking, boarding, and biking are outdoor activities that are continually occurring for george fox students.
Bang for the buck
george fox is expensive, but when all is said and done ( note: file your fafsa!) it is as much or just slightly more than a state school charging in-state tuition. with that in mind, george fox is most definitely, exceedingly worth every penny. students can learn ways to save money and the school is overall accommodating and understanding about financial difficulties.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
personally, the creek that runs through the middle of campus with surrounding trails and bridges along it is my favorite part of living on-campus. being surrounded by a balance of nature and city is what newberg is and it's a wonderful atmosphere.
Great for these types of students
all types. literally! i have met such a huge variety of personalities and interests at george fox. if you are outgoing, loud, and like a social butterfly then great! if you're more socially awkward, introverted, and like to keep things low-key then that's great too. there is no doubt that no matter who you are, you will find not just one, but several people who are like you here.

Sandy from Newberg, OR

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned more in one year at George Fox than I could have learned in 10! I have grown in my spiritual walk with God and my friends here at the school have encouraged me so much.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful, the professors are caring, and the students are so much fun to be around! There are so many events to go to at the school.
Bang for the buck
George Fox is very expensive but they do offer financial aid. The food cost is decent and there are a variety of choices but it is so expensive. The dorms are also very spendy.
Tips for prospective students
Try your best to not buy textbooks from George Fox. They are very expensive! Try to get them off of amazon or ebay.
Great for these types of students
Everyone kind of student will benefit from going to George Fox and will be changed for the better by the faith centered community.

Kelsie from Bremerton, WA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I'm not just learning facts, I am learning more about how to have my faith be an integral part of of my career.
Am enjoying being here
I am much more than a student number here. Our professors, counselors and staff in general really care about us and go out of their way to help us be a success.
Bang for the buck
It isn't cheep but I am getting a great education form a university that is internationally recognized as one of the best. I think this will be important as I apply for my Masters and work abroad.