Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN, USA

Reviews

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Julianne from Mokena, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
My classes keep me engaged because of my professors' enthusiasm about their class topics.
Am enjoying being here
The campus has an amazing community atmosphere. I love how I always see friends and familiar faces when walking through the plaza. Also, there are a lot of opportunities on campus to get involved.
Bang for the buck
SMU seems expensive; however, it is the least expensive school in the MIAC conference. Also, there are A LOT of scholarship opportunities which you automatically apply for when you submit your application to the university.
Tips for prospective students
If you visit campus, do it in early fall because the trees in the bluffs surrounding campus are beautiful.
Great for these types of students
SMU has a great drama program and education program. However, all areas of study are of great quality because of the value on professor-student relationships.
There are so many opportunities to get involved on campus that there is not a specific type of student that fits on campus.

Anne

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Mary's is a small private school with a friendly, close-knit community. The liberal arts education has given me a solid, well-rounded background that will influence my ethical decisions in the working world. There are wonderful opportunities for leadership positions at the university, and the professors really care about you and your progress.
Tips for prospective students
Take a tour of campus and come for an overnight. These things are great for getting a feel for the atmosphere of a campus and seeing if it is for you.
Also, look into the St. Mary's Scholarships. SMU is great about giving out merit scholarships.
Academic Rigor
We have mostly discussion, writing, and reading-based classes. Rather than all lecturing, professors, never TAs, sit in small classes with students and encourage discussions. Most of the professor are not harsh graders. You are set up to succeed if you do your work and care.
Dorm Life
Most students stay on campus all 4 years. Freshman come in to rooms for two, which are pretty average size. Some freshman girls, the ones in Skemp Hall, have bigger rooms and walk-in closets!! As you become an upperclassmen, on-campus apartments and townhouse-style living become possibilities.
Food and Dining
Nothing beats home food, but St. Mary's does a nice job providing different options at each meal. We have a new registered dietitian who is great. There is one main cafeteria, a cafe, a coffee shop, and a grill, all of which work with the meal plan. Our food service is provided by Chartwells.
What to do for fun
The Office of Student Activities brings in numerous comedians, music groups, etc. that never fail to entertain. They also set up bus trips to see sports games ($5 Twins games every year), performing arts events, the State Fair, and more.
Also, SMU student support each other a ton and attend each others sports games and performances.
My friends and I like to go out to dinner in Lacrosse and Rochester every once in a while.
Bang for the buck
Saint Mary's has so many opportunities, and although the sticker price is high, they give out a plethora of scholarships.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Each year in the fall semester on the night before finals, we have a Christmas lights service in the chapel that leads into a Christmas brunch (for dinner) in the cafeteria with music and pictures with Santa. The brunch is served by the professors. It is a great finals de-stresser and an overall good time!
Campus Safety
I have NEVER felt unsafe on this campus.

Elsa from Stewartville, MN

accepted here and planning to attend soon
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I absolutely love the campus! It is small, yet organized so that I will be able to know where I am going once I get there. I can't wait to be there!
Academic Rigor
From what I am learning about this school, there should be some great academics there.
Dorm Life
The dorms vary from being very small to very large, and there are many different living options on campus.
Food and Dining
The food is great!
What to do for fun
Swimming, work out, music, all sorts of things are always happening on campus!
Bang for the buck
The sticker price on the school is huge, but they are so generous with scholarships.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many different interest groups availible!
Campus Safety
They have campus security and other adults around at all times.

Student A

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Mary's University is a small school located in between the beautiful bluffs of Winona. It is an excellent school for students who want to experience a small college campus experience. The teachers and students are friendly and there is good communication between everyone on campus.
Tips for prospective students
Take the opportunity of attending an overnight visit. You will get to know the school better and make future connections.
Academic Rigor
Academic is average. There are challenging courses, but the teachers are very helpful!
Dorm Life
You are required to live on campus your first year, and personally I think that is an excellent requirement because it helps you get to know people and to experience new adventures!
Food and Dining
Food is average!
What to do for fun
There are plenty of activities, but it all depends on the people you know!
Clubs and Activities
Many different clubs to join!

Danielle from Richfield, MN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Mary's University is an amazing school. The professors, faculty, and students make the school a wonderful place to attend college. The bluffs and weather of southern Minnesota is a huge bonus as well!
Tips for prospective students
Take your time when searching for a college and make sure you know everything the school has to offer.
Academic Rigor
The professors are amazingly helpful and always want what is best for their students.
Dorm Life
The dorms at SMU, especially the female dorm Skemp is spacious and even has a walk in closet! Every dorm on campus is a good place to live, it just depends on what you like!
Food and Dining
Just like all colleges, the food is not what you are used to! However, there are many different options to choose from - which is always nice!
What to do for fun
Hiking in the bluffs is definitely something you have to do. Exploring the SMU part of Winona is extremely beautiful if you are up for an adventure!
Bang for the buck
The professors, entire staff, and students make the money worth it. There are many things to do at Saint Mary's as well.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The fourth floor of Saint Mary's Hall is a great place to pull all nighters!
Great for these types of students
Students that love to live in a college town, but is also fairly small. Also, students who love outdoorsy activities!
Clubs and Activities
There are many clubs and activities at Saint Mary's.
Greek Life
None
Campus Safety
Very helpful!