Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA, USA

Reviews

Saint Joseph's University

Tina from Scranton, PA

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Ultimately the learning is all up to the individual so it depends on the students dedication that they have. The teachers are very intelligent and they are willing to help with any problem. There are many different options for the student if he or she feels like they need some extra help, such as; SI sessions which current students have private or group tutoring sessions. The teacher also has set times where you can go to their offices and get extra help.
Am enjoying being here
Campus is great! To me it is safe, although you should never go anywhere by yourself. There is always something to do wether it be a club or an activity on campus or taking a trip down to the center of the city of Brotherly Love. The faculty is great and it is so easy to make new friends
Bang for the buck
Although at costly price if you do your best and become involved you will definitely not regret it. Saint Joe's wants students who want to be here and they will help you do what is needed for such a student to receive one of the finest educations around.
Tips for prospective students
Campus is beautiful and it is just a comfortable enviornment to be apart of. Classes are a great size, and the teachers will get to know your name, you will not be just a number. Definitely visit the school before eliminating it due to cost because there are many ways with scholarships and loans to get around that.
Great for these types of students
This school is great for those who want balance. It is not a campus located in the middle of nowhere so instead of sitting on campus on a saturday after noon you can explore Philadelphia and the many things it has to offer. Yes there are parties but there is also a commitment to each students education.

HAWKS!

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors on campus are very knowledgeable in their subject matter. They are very helpful and want to assist students as much as they can, even if it does not pertain to the class's subject matter but life in general. Professor make class interesting by integrating hands-on activities and the use of technology to better their lectures. Also, the books they choose for the class are often excellent and up-to-date; although like many schools...expensive. The core major/minor classes are well taught and thorough...and the GER classes are not a waste of time. Attending St. Joe's will earn you a well-rounded education!
Am enjoying being here
St. Joe's offers a safe, fun campus. There are a variety of activities students can get involved with whether it's sports related or volunteer activities. If you're looking for something fun to do that doesn't cost a cent, you can always rely on the Student Union Board. SUB is the main student-run group on campus that manages anything from free movies to mini festivals on the lawn. You can also check out the Perch, a building used for students to relax, have fun, go to concerts, or study and talk with friends. The Perch is open 24/7 and includes pool tables, table tennis, arcade games, a computer lab, a stage (for concert nights) and a lounge area...and the best part is - it's all free! And after you relax in the lounge you can participate in multiple volunteer activities; some held right on campus and the majority of others, in the city! Volunteering is a great way meet new people and give back to the community.
Bang for the buck
Yes, St. Joe's is a more-expensive school but there is so much that you can learn and participate in on campus. Most of the professors are wonderful and always willing to give extra help. The university also contains state-of-the-art technology that is useful during the learning process. The class sizes are small so the teacher-student/student-student relationship is possible which enriches the class material and often great friendships. The campus is always kept nice and well-maintained giving every angle a beautiful view...especially in the spring! Also, the set-up of the residence halls encourages an easy way to meet new people and potential long-lasting friendships. Freshmen year the dorms are a bit small but sophomore year to senior year there is much more space.
Tips for prospective students
If you're signing up for a residence hall...pick the houses. It's like a campus secret. They are much more spacious then the dorms, they have charm, and it's almost as if you're walking home at the end of the day. All campus houses are located on campus and most have kitchens!
Another tip is to wait to buy your textbooks. Sometimes professors post books for the class as a recommended source instead of required. And usually renting your book from the bookstore or buying your books online is a lot cheaper if you know your not going to keep them.
Great for these types of students
College-bound students who are studious yet still want to have fun. Students who love the city but don't necessarily want to live in it, but can easily access it.
Students who want a more one-to-one style learning (i.e. 20 students in a class) instead of a lecture hall of hundreds of students and fellow classmates that you'll never know their name and professor won't either.

Rosie

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
St. Joe's is a school where you can never say there is nothing to do. With challenging school work and ways to get involved you can always keep yourself busy. There is a place for everyone here.
Tips for prospective students
Time management is something every student needs to learn here. With so many service sites and other ways to get involved on campus you have to find ways to have fun, but also get work done. The work seems like a lot at first, but it is all manageable.
Academic Rigor
The work can be hard or easy depending on the teacher, what is difficult however is the quantity of the work. With some weeks you are swamped with papers and assignments. It is all challenging work, but in the end it gets easier to do.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is the same everywhere. But St. Joe's finds ways for you to stay close to campus all four years. For freshman housing suites are offered and they are a must! It really adds to the housing experience.
Food and Dining
There are good days and bad days.
What to do for fun
St. Joe's is a city school, but with grass and trees! The train to get anywhere in the city is just a quick walk away. You are in Philadelphia, leaving endless possibilities available. The school itself is always offering things to do on campus.
Bang for the buck
It's a growing campus, a bit costly, but definitely worth it.
Clubs and Activities
There are tons to do on campus. The cool thing to do is to get involved with a service site where you meet the most people.
Greek Life
It's here. It's not a big deal but the people in it love it.
Campus Safety
All you have to do is call them and they will pick you up anywhere and take you where you need to go.

Megan from Elkton, MD

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers at Saint Joseph's are dedicated to their work. They truly care about each individual student and take the time to make sure you are doing well in the class. If you show that you are putting forth effort the teachers will match or go beyond that effort. They have a lot of office hours each week and are easy to get in contact with. They are extremely knowledgeable in their subjects. The class sizes are at max 25 students. This means you need to show up to class but this also means that the teachers can get to know you individually.
Am enjoying being here
The school environment is just as great as the academic atmosphere. There are many activities going on each weekend. Different student groups organize dances, concerts, movie nights, etc. The sporting events are also a lot of fun. The school is very spirited. Basketball games are very intense and very exciting. The school location is also great! At Saint Joseph's you can use trains, buses, and other public transportation to get into the city, where there are lots of things to do and see. It is also great being close to many different colleges that you can visit and meet other people your age.
Bang for the buck
Saint Joseph's is an expensive school, but it is worth your money. The education you get is worth it. Saint Joseph's also helps with paying for school and is generous with scholarships.
Tips for prospective students
You should visit the campus and really get a feeling for the atmosphere. There are guided tours and open houses that are a great opportunity for that. If you plan on going to Saint Joseph's check out all the dorm options before deciding to see what option is best for you.
Great for these types of students
Saint Joseph's is great for students who are looking for a school that is small enough that you get to know many of your teachers and classmates but still has many activities. It is great for students who are serious about their work and are looking for a great education.

Colleen from Philadelphia, PA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
SJU is a school that offers a variety of majors, including ones that are not common, such as a first-rate Food Marketing Program. The teachers really challenge you to do your best, and are willing to help if they can. All you have to do is ask. The teachers are experienced in their field and dedicated to their subject; my Accounting teacher never missed a class, yet he flew back and forth to the Midwest three times a week to perform his duties at a company he works for.
Am enjoying being here
The students at St. Joe's are courteous and kind, but are also your typical teenagers. Debates in class can get lively, as everyone has a different point of view.
Bang for the buck
Saint Joe's is very generous with scholarships, and the quality of life, education, and socializing available at SJU is unsurpassed.
Tips for prospective students
Take the chance and apply, and visit the beautiful campus.
Great for these types of students
SJU is a place for being loud and being proud, and offers those who may be a bit quieter a chance to let their thoughts be heard.

Isabella from Philadelphia, PA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Joe's has a great community aspect. If you're looking for a place where you will recognize people in the library, in the dining hall and in your classes, this is the place for you.
Tips for prospective students
Branch out of your comfort zone. My biggest mistake was hanging around only with my friends from high school. Get involved in things your friends aren't necessarily involved in and meet new people.
Academic Rigor
Saint Joe's will give you what you're paying for, and you aren't paying for an easy A.
Dorm Life
A new residence hall for freshman was just built in 2012 and is beautiful. All the freshman dorms are right on campus and in close proximity to everything. Living on campus is a great opportunity.
Food and Dining
The dining hall food is OK. There is always food that is safe to eat, like pizza and an awesome salad bar and ice cream and cereal. Sometimes when the dining hall tries something new, it doesn't always come out the best. But it's typical for college food.
What to do for fun
Taking a train or bus into the city of Philadelphia takes less than 20 minutes and is $2 or $4. Manayunk, a town near by has shops and bars if you are older. Ardmore is right near as well. There is an array of activities on campus on weekends as well.
Bang for the buck
You get what you pay for. Everything you could ever need is on campus here, and everyone is on your side and is here to help you.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The hawk will never die! is the main tradition on campus. Basketball is really popular since we do not have a football team, and the hawk mascot cannot stop flapping throughout the whole game. It's a great environment and really shoes the community aspect of our school.
Great for these types of students
Outgoing people who love to embrace opportunities. There is not a typical student here, every type of person is represented here, regardless of what you are into.
Clubs and Activities
Everything you could ever want to be into exists, and if it doesn't, you can start it.
Greek Life
It is almost like a club here. There is no Greek housing so sororities and fraternities have meetings and participate in activities together without a house.
Campus Safety
Public safety is awesome. They will pick you up from anywhere if you don't feel safe or don't feel like walking. They are always around keeping us safe. They have a district right on campus that looks like a real dispatcher.

Dawn from Oviedo, FL

a past student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Joseph's University is a great school to graduate from and a place where the campus is close enough to the inner city but far enough not to be apart of the chaos the inner city comes with. A very comfortable atmosphere and campus.
Tips for prospective students
For prospective students I suggest that you MINGLE!, MINGLE!, MINGLE! Get to know who you are in class with and anyone surrounding you. It will help make your experience better. For multicultural students I suggest that you too mingle and visit the OML (Office of Multicultural Life) in the campion building. All students of any race, culture and color are welcomed into the office and the director Dr. Sho is a very friendly and funny woman who will make you feel right at home. P.S if you have not already, FILL OUT SCHOLARSHIPS LIKE CRAZY! You'll need it!
Academic Rigor
Pay attention in class and you'll be fine! Any additional S.I classes (for the science majors) or tutoring that you need, make time in your schedule to do so. It helps a lot and you will not feel left behind. Do not be afraid to ask questions because the professors are there to help and also have office hours if you need their additional help outside of class. The drexel library and the new Post hall attached are great places to find additional resources. Everything you need for academic success is on campus so use your resources. There is also a student success center for this as well.
Dorm Life
There are new dorms being built as I write this! There are a number of doors on campus and also the option of town houses for upper class men. There is sourin hall which is co-ed but each floor is assigned to one gender only. There Lafarge that could stand some work, it is not a bad or horrible hall but the showers are really small so if you're tall I do not think you would want to house there. Both of those halls are right next to each other and on campus. The town houses are a little off campus but not far, just down the street and if you do not want to walk it or drive there are hawk buses (shuttles) that come at certain times to pick students up and take them to designated stops on and near campus. There is also Moore hall located right near the townhouses and Ashwood, Merion gardens, Lancaster courts, Wynnewood and Pennbrook that are located further up the street from the townhouses and are all apartment style and nice places to live. Borgia and Rashford are across the street from the university and are also apartment style and very nice places!
Food and Dining
The food is great. So much to choose from. You could go to the convenient store located in campion to grab something quick to take back to your dorm or you could go to the dining side (near the convenient store to have a buffet style dinner. There is also the choice of going to the declining balance side in campion as soon as you walk in and go down the stairs and have the choice of quiznos, hawk wraps, etc. Hawk wraps are awesome!
What to do for fun
There are lost of activities to enjoy around the campus and on campus. There are plenty of campus events going on and you can check the calendar on the SJU site so you do not miss it! There are also a number of bars, Manyunk being a popular place where people hang and 40th street being another, right near University of Penn campus. There are also a number of clubs downtown in center city and plenty of things to do there as well.
Bang for the buck
Overall SJU is what you make of it. Get involved, join clubs, participate in events, make memories and friends, but most importantly, excel in your studies!
Clubs and Activities
So many clubs to choose from! If you like it and what to join it, they have it. There is always activities, carnivals and gatherings, especially during the spring!
Campus Safety
There when you need them! Just make sure you have your ID at all times or at least know your ID number by heart.

Julia from East Stroudsburg, PA

researching this school
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
from what i was told and found for myself when i visited the open house this july was that the professors are very accessible. they all seemed very welcoming and easy to talk to.
Will enjoy being here
the campus is BEAUTIFUL. the dorms are average but they are building a brand spankin new building for the class of 2016. everyone there is very welcoming and friendly staff and students. at the open house there were lots of chances to talk to students and get real opinions from active students. they even had a room set up with professors from every department and they called it a community fair.
Bang for the buck
SJU is a private school. that means it is expensive. they automatically consider each student for merit based scholarships. the campus is beautiful everyone is friendly and the school is just pretty awesome. it is worth the money for me.
Tips for prospective students
go visit the campus and stalk the website. let the school know you are interested. do not be afraid to contact staff. they want to help you get in. and they want to get to know you
Great for these types of students
if you dont like to get involved you dont want to go to this school. they are very big on student involvment in activities and volunteerism.

Shanise from Philadelphia, PA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Saint Josephs really does a good job of providing students with substantial learning resources within the classrooms. All of the professors that I had were really knowledgeable on the subject that they taught. This school also has many interesting and exciting classes that are offered to students that can prepare them for their career choice and the classes also help students discern exactly what ignites their interest and what they want to pursue.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is very beautiful, it is peaceful and comforting and creates a atmosphere where it is easy to feel as if you are home. This school also haves a lot of volunteer opportunities that really get students involved with helping others throughout the city. There are programs available that anyone can feel comfortable doing. A St. Josephs student can always find a place where he or she can fit in and make an impact.
Bang for the buck
This school is expensive, however the school is generous in giving scholarships and grants when students need them. Almost all of my friends at St. Josephs have some form of financial aid. For instance, I have a scholarship and a grant from this school and it has made my expenses much more cheaper, also, there are many campus jobs available, such as work study and these can help pay for the tuition and other expenses as well.
Tips for prospective students
Do not be afraid to try new things, freshman year is a huge learning experience, and not just in the classroom. You will have to get used to living with and interacting with different types of people that you never interacted or lived with before. Freshman year is like your first step into some independence, you will probably switch majors or miss high school sometimes, or make some mistakes but it all ends with you coming out as a wiser and more experienced student and person. This school is really good and it really does a good job for gearing its students in the right direction.