Greenville University
Greenville, IL, USA

Reviews

Greenville University

Melanie from Harvard, IL

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
If you don't know what a Liberal Arts college is, let me give it to you, how it's been shown to me. GC requires you to take a WIDE range of courses and then shows you how they're interconnected. Connections between health, religion, science, art, and languages. This helps you personally and professionally. Employers will like to see that graduates are both specialized in their area of study, as well as versatile and knowledgeable in in other areas.
Am enjoying being here
In addition to the academics, GC offers a lot of ways to get involved or opportunities to just hang out with friends. This is important when you live at school. Classes only last so long, and having homework as the only think to look forward to is a sure way to be overwhelmed.
Bang for the buck
At GC you pay for atmosphere as well as education. Students who attend Want to be here. It's a Christian college (although you don't have to be a Christian or declared to attend) and religion isn't downplayed at all. You will be spiritually stretched and grow from your experiences. The DC (dining commons) offer a lot of food choices every day and the dorms aren't to shabby. The campus is beautiful and there are many people that work to maintain it.
Tips for prospective students
Do your research! Greenville.edu the college's website will give you a lot of information but take advantage of college tours, student insights (part of the tour is lead by an actual student), and any other information. Look for scholarships! Although there are a lot of aspects to college life, don't forget that you are a student first.
Great for these types of students
Students who want their college experience to have meaning, growth, great friendships, amazing professors who want to be there (teaching), and are willing to be stretched both mentally and spiritually.

Imari from Fort Walton Beach, FL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Greenville College has provided an environment that promotes learning and conversation. The small class sizes have allowed conversations in the classroom to explore depths that would more difficult to reach in a larger setting. I have been able to actually experience my field of study first hand (elementary education), within my first year of attending Greenville College. Honestly no matter how much you may learn in the classroom, being able to apply and practice what you learn in real life situations is the key. We go through high school feeling as though some of these lessons we go through do not apply, but Greenville College is definitely a Show and Tell college that allows you to take your knowledge and actually use it!
Am enjoying being here
Greenville College in a rural area with cornfields no more than a mile away on either side of it. For a student like me, coming from being in Chicago for high school and then having transferred to Greenville form a larger university in St. Louis, Greenville College feels restrictive. There are all of your basic necessities around you - movie theater, CVS, Dollar General, movie rental places, fast food restaurants, and 24 diners - however, it is the mere size of Greenville that can get to you and feel less than satisfying. So I say for those who are use to the rural setting Greenville College may uphold your expectations. For those coming from a city or a larger university, you may be in shock at first, but I am enjoying myself here anyway, as I am learning to take things at a little bit slower pace.
Bang for the buck
Greenville College is one of the best Christian colleges in the nation! You definitely get the bang for your buck if you are looking for a Christian college that promotes a healthy living and spiritual lifestyle, as well as has one of the best Education, Digital Media, Business, and Contemporary Christian Music majors around!
Tips for prospective students
If you are looking to apply to any college or university - not just Greenville College - look into making contact with someone within the college prior to you applying! It not only shows your initiative, but it can also benefit you during the application process or when you just need a good reference!
Great for these types of students
* Those who have lived in rural areas before
* City students that are looking to get away from it all
* Education, Music, Digital Media, and Business majors
* Christians and non-Christians
* Students looking for a smaller college

Meagan from Nokomis, IL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes here at GC are great. The professors really care about each student and want to make learning an enjoyable and successful experience. I have learned so much in each class.
Am enjoying being here
I have made many new friends in the four months that I've been at Greenville College. There are also fun activities happening on campus all the time.
Bang for the buck
Greenville College is expensive. I can't lie about that. But it is worth it.
Tips for prospective students
If you're considering Greenville College, I would encourage you to visit. I made my decision after being on campus. The atmosphere is cheerful and community-oriented. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Great for these types of students
Greenville College is best for students who are very committed to learning. The lifestyle statement may turn some people away, but I like it. There are rules on campus, but not too many! Chapel is also required. GC is a great place to grow and learn with people who share my same values.

Caitlin from Texico, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Small classes=increased learning, and at GC that's exactly what you get! The classes are small and involved, and the profs CARE! about your progress in their class. They challenge you to immerse yourself in the subject and to practice the course rather than just sit in class and do the homework. It's a challenge, but it makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable education overall.
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere here is excellent. It's a relatively small campus, and the concept of Community is a great emphasis. One of the core beliefs here at GC is that having a unified campus-wide community will help students be more successful in their classes, their spiritual lives, and their careers.
Bang for the buck
GC has a lot of things to offer that many colleges don't. For example, I'm a Chemistry major, and I get to use a lot of technology (such as NMR spectroscopy, for anyone interested) that chem majors at other schools won't get the opportunity to use until Grad school--and I'm learning it as a freshman! And, if you're a music major or an audio engineering major, they have specialised recording studios in the basement of Whitlock Music Center, a couple of which are used by Blackroom Records, a recording company that actually uses GC facilities to record their music. The smaller classes and the class options provide for a learning experience unlike any other. GC may seem expensive upfront, but they have a lot of scholarships and aid to offer, even scholarships particular to your major.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be deceived by the Christian label. Although it is an excellent place for Christians and it has a good Christian environment, there are many here who aren't Christians and are still loving the education. You learn a lot about Christianity, but there are also classes that teach history of Christianity and other religions. Except for chapel and COR classes, everything remotely Christian is optional. And whatever there is that is Christian will not shove the Bible down your throat--everything is done in love.
Great for these types of students
Are you looking to study abroad? If so, GC is an excellent place for you. A cross cultural experience is actually an academic requirement for GC students, and it is highly encouraged that students take a semester to study abroad. If you come to GC, you will work with your adviser in your respective major to plan out your four years, classes you should take, when you should take them, stuff like that (VERY handy!), and they will work with you to include a study abroad semester in your four-year plan. The cool thing is, you can still graduate after four regular years, despite going away from GC for a semester!

Also, if you're a music major looking into getting a recording contract, GC has the connects to help you get there. Rod Kim, Class of 2005, just put out his debut album last fall (sold at Best Buy, iTunes, Amazon, etc.) and his song Tomorrow She's Mine is featured on Rock Band 2 (I played it, and it was fantastic :)) and

Jessica from Petersburg, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The profs at GC make you want to learn. They make it interesting and exciting. I've only been here a year and have learned far more than I expected I could in only a year. I've learned about Christ, about relationships and friendships, and I've learned things about myself I don't think I could have learned without the experiences they've given me.
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere is truly amazing. Students and teachers here are very accepting and loving. There are opportunities to learn and grow in every way.
Bang for the buck
It's private, so it's pricey, but worth every penny. The food in the DC is pretty varied and not half bad for cafeteria food. Some of the dorms aren't the best, but you'll love being in them anyway. There are better dorms on campus, though, and once you're an upperclassman, you can live in them.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for as many scholarships as you can.
Go to class; it's worth it.
Get to know your professors; they're all pretty amazing.
Great for these types of students
-Anyone who's excited to learn, especially in a Christ-centered environment.
-Anyone who likes the small-town feel
-Anyone looking for a place to be accepted and to be a part of a real community

Maci from Elgin, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Greenville College is an exceptional institution for students who are eager to learn and grow in both their academics and their faith. What makes Greenville unique is the community it provides for all those who step onto campus. The students are welcoming and expressive, the professors are accessible and generous, and the campus itself is full of life and joy for Christ.
Tips for prospective students
Even though Greenville is a wonderful school and fitting for any student, I recommend making a visit to campus before applying or accepting. Visits are individualized, alleviating pressure from students and allowing them to fully experience Greenville. Students, along with their friends and family, are free to tour the campus with an admissions counselor, sit in on courses of interests, and eat lunch in the DC while accompanied by a current student. Additionally, prospective students can sign up for an overnight visit with a current student. I also suggest visiting on a Thursday for an overnight visit to attend Vespers, our student-led chapel. It is truly an invigorating and unforgettable experience. Taking the time to visit the campus allows students to find their place and feel that they belong. Once students know that Greenville is their home, they should start applying to as many scholarships as possible.
Academic Rigor
The academics at Greenville are both exciting and challenging. Students who show academic strength and agility may want to apply to the honors program in addition to the application. The McAllaster Honors Program allows students to immerse themselves in a variety of courses through their shared desire to learn. This program is truly enlightening, and the small group of students accepted each year makes for a very personal experience. I have also found my other general education classes to be just as fun. While a few of them can be difficult, they are all manageable and rewarding in the end.
Dorm Life
As a freshman girl, I live in Burritt Hall. There are about 200 other girls in Burritt, and together we form a community of loving and kind girls. Each floor has two kitchens and a lounge for the girls to utilize and spread out. The storage space may be tight, and the heating is sometimes annoying, but Burritt is such a great place to live that all the little quirks are worth it. We call ourselves Burrittos and the dorm holds events often. I never expected to be surrounded by such wonderful girls during my college experience. Around campus, there are also four dorm options for boys. After the first year, students can choose from several other dorms, apartments, and houses both on and off campus. Each residence has Resident Chaplains who oversee and manage the students. They plan floor events, check students in and out, and keep themselves available as a companion to the other students. Overall, dorm life could not be better, and it is a major component in what makes Greenville a truly special place to attend.
Food and Dining
Greenville offers a variety of meal plans that students can personalize to their liking. On weekdays, the dining commons serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and on weekends they serve brunch and dinner. Nearly every day, students can choose from an entrée, the grill, Asian cuisine, vegetarian cuisine, the sandwich bar, and the salad bar. In addition, students are given a set amount of flex dollars to spend at the student union, a place for students to gather and eat snacks or fast meals. There is also a coffee shop on campus and several restaurants around town.
What to do for fun
At Greenville, something is always happening on campus. The various clubs and groups on campus plan activities nearly every day of each week. Students can catch up on what theyâ??re missing through their student email or through announcements made during chapel on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. There may be a concert at Whitlock Music Center, or a science colloquium in Snyder Hall, or swing dancing in the Upper Burritt Gym. Outside of campus, the town holds festivals and concerts for the entire community to enjoy. Across from campus, students also have access to the Gullies, a nature path owned by the school.
Bang for the buck
All the students at Greenville Iâ??ve talked with have said theyâ??re experience has been more than worth it. Not only are students receiving a respectable education, but they are forming relationships and establishing values of their own. College is a time to experiment, whether thatâ??s through different courses, unique activities, or new companions. Itâ??s important to put yourself out there; thatâ??s how Greenville goes beyond any other institution. It allows students to expand their horizons and truly become their own person.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
From Day One at Greenville, students learn about the abundance of cats on campus and around town. Most of them are friendly and loving, and a couple cats even follow students around the dorms and academic halls. We call them the Campus Cats, and while theyâ??re not quite a tradition, they are an infamous part of what makes Greenville unique. Another tradition we have would serve well with any Doctor Who fans. Our college president is from England, and one way we emphasize this is by keeping a TARDIS on campus. Iâ??m not quite sure what itâ??s used for throughout the year, but students love it and the President adores it.
Great for these types of students
Greenville is honestly a great school for any student. The college has an inexplicable atmosphere that welcomes every individual and accommodates for all personalities. Students who have a strong desire to grow and immerse themselves with others are the ones who will get the most out of their experience. Aside from Greenville being a Christian liberal arts college, the students come from all around the world, and they feel welcome to make Greenville their home. Taking the time to step out their comfort zones is key to making the four years worthwhile.
Clubs and Activities
I never expected to be surrounded by so many opportunities to get involved and do service in the community. Greenville has a variety of strong sports teams, all of which create lasting friendships as well as a competitive atmosphere. There are tons of outreach opportunities on campus, around town, across the country, and around the world. Activities are happening all the time over campus, and clubs are formed easily and frequently.
Greek Life
While Greenville does not have Greek Life, the community is so tightly knit and connected that bringing sororities and fraternities to campus would be unnecessary. Rather than divide our already small campus, we prosper by joining together in our community.
Campus Safety
Never have I been concerned for my safety on campus or in the town. Greenville has a very safe community: there is ample lighting at night, campus security making rounds all night, and open dorm hours for students to follow. What is most important is that students make smart choices and not make themselves prone to danger. Even in college, students need to just use common sense.

TMB

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Greenville College is an institution that has become a welcoming harbor to students, both freshman and veteran. Focused on building community between faculty and students as well as between students and students, Greenville implements excellence in all areas. Graduates employ their academic excellence and use their experience gained in hands-on classroom activities to make a lasting impact in the real world after school.
Tips for prospective students
Go to chapel and Bible studies to further your walk with God and to grow spiritually.
What to do for fun
Spending time in music practice rooms and coffee houses.
Great for these types of students
Music majors
Campus Safety
Very safe environment

Katie from Pekin, IL

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A welcoming, friendly place. The faculty and staff seem to genuinely care about helping you. The current students are also friendly and quick to lend a hand.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus. Go on tour days, make appointments with admissions for your own visit, or do both. Get a feel for the place and the people.
Academic Rigor
I am expecting to be challenged!
Dorm Life
Some of the dorms are older, but the students I stayed with on campus, and others I met were fun and welcoming. I think I will really enjoy living there.
Food and Dining
The food in the dining commons was pretty good, for cafeteria food. One parent questioned students about serving sizes. They have another child who is an athlete and never gets enough to eat at his college. The students all laughed at the question, and assured everyone that meals are buffet style and you can have seconds.
What to do for fun
We went to Jo's Java for a coffeehouse with an MTV award winning band. From there we went to a movie at the local theater - free tickets for students. The pizza at Mario's is great, and all of these are walking distance from campus. There is a large fitness center up the road from the main campus, and a smaller one in the gym building. There are over 50 clubs, groups and activities at the college, including a good football team.
Bang for the buck
Although Greenville is a private, Christian liberal arts college, it is actually less expensive than many comparable schools. It has a number of excellent academic programs, including education.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
I am just learning about these. The Joy Boy* date auction for charity has a lot of potential. (*Joy Boys are the boys that live in Joy hall. No, it's not named after a girl!)
Great for these types of students
Great for students who want the freedom to develop their faith, of learning without the stress of having to defend their faith, who want to live and learn in an atmosphere of learning, not partying.
Clubs and Activities
Lots of clubs and activities.
Greek Life
None, except for honorary or academic.
Campus Safety
I don't have any concerns at the present time.

Sarah from East Peoria, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Greenville College has a great community, professors, and great academics. They are welcoming and understanding. I could not have picked a better school.
Tips for prospective students
Do not worry about the cost of the school, because the financial aid department is fantastic and find you a ton of scholarships and grants.
Academic Rigor
The class options and majors have a wide variety. I love being able to pick my own schedule. The advisors are really nice too!
Dorm Life
The dorm life is fantastic. I met all my friends from my dorm. Everyone is really nice.
Food and Dining
The food is awesome! Especially at the union where you can order hamburgers to calzone's and even quesadillas!
What to do for fun
When it rains, mud sliding on Scott Field is super fun, as is sitting in huge puddles waiting for cars to splash you while your with your friends!
Bang for the buck
The price of the school is worth it for how amazing the environment is. You definitely get what you pay for.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
During NSO there is the planting of the ivy ceremony. Then your senior year you get the ivy cut.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many ways to get involved, from being an Admissions Ambassador, to being in a sport.
Campus Safety
I love that you must have your I.D to get food, get in to your building, and your I.D. is set to only open your dorm no one else's. Also there are security guards that walk around at night.

Mrs.Aloha from Honolulu, HI

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Because Greenville is on a smaller campus, it provides students with an opportunity to really get into our school work. There are many areas where we can relax and study. From the library to the beautiful field. Because the classrooms are not full a bunch of students you have the opportunity to locate the teachers and actually sit and talk with them about whats going on in the classroom. If that doesn't work then you can easily find a classmate and work with them. Education is a high priority at GC.
Am enjoying being here
Greenville provides students a broad list of activities to do on their spare time. From zombies vs. humans to speed dating Greenville College will keep students entertained.Each event is planned to fit each and every student there. It also gives you the chance to plan events that you think everyone will like. It also provides the best people you will ever meet. I made friends that I know i will keep in contact for a long time. Through meeting new and dear friends and going to a football game I can say i have so far enjoyed my stay.
Bang for the buck
I thought at first that Greenville was expensive but after attending and seeing all I can do i will say it is worth the buck. The classes will leave you wanting to learn more about a different subject, and the school events will have you wanting to do something every single day. I am very comfortable with giving my money to GC and you will be to.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready to experience new and interesting things that you wouldn't anywhere else. Always be open to new things and look at things in a positive matter.