Saint Xavier University
Chicago, IL, USA

Reviews

Saint Xavier University

Victoria from University Park, IL

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I like Saint Xavier because the classes are smaller and it is easy access to get in touch with the teacher. They help you if you have questions and it is more intimate where you can get that one on one needed sometimes.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy living on the campus. Our dorm room are larger than a lot of Universities which is very good especially if you have roommates. There are is lot of extra curriculum activities. People are diverse here.
Bang for the buck
Everyone knows each other and I am not a number but I have a name. We have campus buses that will take you to several locations in the area for shopping and to public transportation. We have security all over the campus grounds for your safety.
Tips for prospective students
Saint Xavier, I believe care about you, like I said you are not just a number. The counsellors work with you to find out what your strengths are to better guide you in the right direction for a major. You make a lot of good friends here. The academics are wonderful for whatever you choose to major in.
Great for these types of students
Saint Xavier is nationally known for producing great Nurses, Teaches, Music majors and so much more!

Camille from Dolton, IL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
Since I have started attending Saint Xavier I have been exposed to new ways of thinking. The professors challenge you to be the best student you can be. For example, I took a philosophy class and the professor was always excited about each discussion that we had. I learned various philosophical points of views that made me evaluate my philosophical views.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful and always well kept. I am a recent transfer and a commuter so I am still new and adjusting. I have not experienced their dorms but I did have a tour and the newer dorms are fantastic. The older dorms are quite small but I heard from a friend that the mentors on the floor tries to do various activities to get everyone on the floor involved and familiar with each other. As for the class sizes, I enjoy the smaller class sizes compared to the other university that I transferred from. It seems more personal and the professors really try to make sure you understand the material. I did transfer from a much larger university so I am used to the various activities that they have, but I was impressed by how many different groups and organizations were available.
Bang for the buck
This school is a bit pricey because it is a private university but to me it is worth it. Even though it is on the higher end a lot of the students are awarded with scholarships and if you are an in-state student many receive grants from the state. I was quite pleased with my financial aid award letter because it did cut down on some of the costs.
Great for these types of students
I am a nursing student so I am here for their nursing program. They have an EXCELLENT nursing program. The passing rate on the NCLEX in 2009 was 100% and that was the main reason why I decided to transfer to this school. I am also currently in the program and the courses really prepare you for thinking and analyzing as a nurse would. The professors are also very friendly and helpful.

Lauren from Chicago, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Everyone here including students, teachers, and staff are so nice and helpful. Saint Xavier University also provides its students with a pleasant and learning atmosphere. Finally, it's a small school with small classes, and a lot more attention is given to each student.
Tips for prospective students
If planning on going to professional school after your undergraduate, try to take some teachers more than once so they'll get to know you. More often than not, you'll want a letter of recommendation from them. It won't work well if they don't know you. In addition, Saint Xavier University not only has a library to study, but a silent room, and an additional floor in the library that has group study rooms with flat screen TVs in them to plug your laptop into.
Academic Rigor
The classes are really hard, but it's a University and the teachers are there to challenge you to the best of your ability. I've learned so much about myself and I'm never afraid to ask my teachers for help or go to their office before/after class to ask a question.
Dorm Life
I don't live on campus, but I've been inside the dorms quite a few times to see my friends. Honestly, the freshman dorms are not that good because they're freshman. They're not dirty though! It's just, the upperclassmen dorms are so nice! They look like expensive condos. Also, the dormitories have a lot of fun activities. The games usually involve a prize and you get to meet other people. I know this because they're posters around school, events on Facebook, and I've seen one before while driving past the dormitory.
Food and Dining
In my opinion, the food is good. Unfortunately, not everybody thinks that and it depends on what YOU like. Pasta is served a lot and the food is expensive but you don't have to buy food every single day. There are also various snacks served including ice cream.
What to do for fun
Unfortunately, on the weekends it's dead in the dormitories and on the campus. On the other hand, people also throw PARTIES every weekend in the nearby SXU apartments. There's also a grande saloon owned by the University called Gilhooley's where you can throw parties, food is served, events take place there, and there's a bar!
Great for these types of students
Almost anything but the most common majors are nursing and biology. One of the only types of career associated students this school is not great for is acting and maybe singing.
Clubs and Activities
There's a lot of clubs. Some of them are created by the students because we have the privilege of starting our own clubs. It's so easy to start one too. Furthermore, there are so many fun activities that take place here. What I love most about them is the chance to get a free t-shirt.
Campus Safety
There are campus safety cars that I see drive around the campus all the time when I'm walking to and from my classes that are held in separate buildings. Also, before anyone can enter the dorms, your friend that lives there has to insert their card into the card slot to unlock the door. When you enter, there's also a person that sits behind the desk that checks the visitor(s) in/out.

Michelle from Illinois

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
They have wonderful teachers and a great curriculum.
Will enjoy being here
When I went to go visit the school, I realized that this is where I belonged. The campus tour I took was amazing and loved it there!
Bang for the buck
It is a private school which means more money,but they give out great scholarships! It is worth it!
Tips for prospective students
Get a high ACT score because the higher it is the more scholarship opportunities will be given to you!
Great for these types of students
Any one who doesn't want to go to a big school and wants to be known by their name not a number. It is a close knit environment.

Nicole from Rolling Meadows, IL

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
SXU is a catholic institution, although all are welcome, that has small classes and great teachers. On campus we have a gym, our own lake, a chapel, great dorms, and a beautiful, small campus. The classes are personal with teachers that are extremely approachable and available.
Tips for prospective students
FILL OUT THE FAFSA!!! Financial aid can be a huge help! Do not overlook it!
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS!!! As with all private institutions, tuition is higher than with state schools. SXU offers great financial aid and scholarships to all students who apply for them.
VISIT THE CAMPUS!!! Not all college campuses are the same. Some are beyond huge while some are quite small. SXU is quite small. We have a beautiful campus with many lovely outside areas to work or just hang out.
EAT THE FOOD!!! If you do not eat the food when you visit, you are missing out on a deal breaker. Try the food and see your options. If you don't like the food, chances are you might not be very happy living there.
Academic Rigor
Since classes are small, teachers adapt their lessons and speed depending on the class. If the majority of the class understands/knows a topic, the teachers spend less time on it. If you are one that does not understand/know, the teachers are available outside of class to help you one-on-one.
Gen Eds are quite mellow while major classes are much more rigorous. Elective classes depend on the subject. With most gen eds and electives, if the teacher sees you genuinely trying and asking for help, they will cut you some slack. Do NOT be lazy and pretend you don't get it; they know what you are doing. Genuinely trying and asking for help is always MUCH better than saying Forget this! I don't get it
Dorm Life
The freshman dorm is the oldest. It is still quite nice though. The layout is odd I think. You share a room with one other person. Freshman rooms have a walk-in closet, beds, desks, dressers, and a sink.
The rest of the dorms are new and wonderful!!!! Each upperclassman dorm room has 2 bedrooms and a common area with a kitchenette. Two students share a bedroom (you pick your suite mates or you get stuck with whoever did not get placed); four to a suite. Each bedroom has its own bathroom with shower.
Food and Dining
The food at SXU is pretty good; there is just not a lot of variety. We have an on-campus Subway and Starbucks. Our main food places are our diner and mini grocery store. The diner has a sandwich station, salad bar, carvery (different food every meal), and grill. For lunch we also have a pizza station.
There is also a restaurant, Gilhouley's, that our meal plan works at. There is not a big variety of food and the service sucks. It is a nice change sometimes though.
What to do for fun
There are many clubs around campus with activities you can get involved in. There is usually some kind of little activity going on during lunch time in the diner.
Bang for the buck
Any private university is expensive. SXU has great programs and great teachers. Especially for nurses, SXU is a great investment!!
Great for these types of students
-Want teachers to know your name
-Do not want to be lost in a crowd
-Want a small campus
-Do not want teachers assistants
-Want to be able to email your teacher and get a relatively quick response
-Do not want to walk 2 miles to get food
Clubs and Activities
The BEST activity on campus is Midnight Breakfast. During finals week, campus life holds a free breakfast for all SXU students. It is great to be around a lot of people, eating free food, complaining about finals. It is a wonderful, welcome break from drowning in books.
There are a lot of clubs on campus for many different interests. It is also pretty easy to start a club as long as you have a sponsoring teacher.
Activities mostly revolve around sports. Other activities are random or go with the season. There are free trips to Millennium Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, and ice skating in the winter.
Intermural sports are also pretty popular with trips to different fields/courts/alleys...
Greek Life
There is none.
Campus Safety
Public safety is EVERYWHERE! If a building is open, there is at least one campus officer inside. All dorms have ID swipes to gain entry. It can be slightly annoying, but it is for our safety. A campus officer is always a phone call away. The campus is lit nicely at night. If you ever feel unsafe, you can call the campus police and they will come get you and bring you back to your dorm or to another school building.

Cara from Blue Island, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
At SXU, there are helpful staff members, namely people who are willing to help and try to get you the resources you need.
They have all types of study rooms and cafeterias and programs to take advantage of!
There are all cool events and clubs to attend!
Tips for prospective students
Be friendly and come here with an open-mind!
If one professor is not helping you out, contact one who will!
Academic Rigor
There is a strong need to be academically prepared
Dorm Life
I don't live on campus but many of the people who do seem to like it!
Food and Dining
There are varieties of food and places to eat!

Amelia from Hales Corners, WI

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
St. Xavier University is a small diverse community where everyone is friendly and knows everyone. Teachers and staff are very helpful and want to see the students succeed. St. Xavier provide wonderful activities to keep students busy as well.
Tips for prospective students
If attending St. Xavier University, don't be afraid to speak to others or teachers for help. They're willing to help. Manage your time wisely as well and just have fun.
Academic Rigor
St. Xavier is a school of education, nursing, arts and sciences, Graham School of Management and Continuing and Professional Studies. Teachers are here to help the students succeed in their majors and/or minors.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is great. Students get to meet other students and attend activities together. Students receive good amount of furniture to use and each room has an air conditioner and sink. Housekeeping makes sure to keep the living areas clean as well.
Food and Dining
Each student has a meal plan to use on campus for the diner, subway, Starbucks and small grocery store provided on campus. There is a restaurant across the street of the university where students can also use their meal plans. So there are many places where students can get delicious food.
What to do for fun
St. Xavier has a Shannon Center which is our athletic center. Students are able to workout, play basketball, and join classes such as zumba, etc.. The campus also provides activities for the students to attend such as a foam party, going bowling or rollerskating and many more. St. Xavier has sports to so students and enjoy themselves and attend these events.
Clubs and Activities
There are a variety of different clubs and activities that students can join. Students are allowed the chance to make their own clubs and/or activities if they're not satisfied with the ones already provided.
Campus Safety
Our campus has public safety and university police that are clock 24 hours circling around the university making sure everything is safe and students are behaving. Also each dorm complex has a security system where only students in that live in the complex can allow access into the building with their ID cards.

Briana from Chicago, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Xavier is a great private college to attend. They have a variety of majors and minors to choose from. The school is well diverse and have a lot of activities to get involved in.
Tips for prospective students
If you do attend Saint Xavier University be sure to go there with an open mind. You are going to meet a ton of new people from all over the world and experience new things as well. Having an open mind can help to easily adjust to the new environment.
Academic Rigor
Saint Xavier University is a great school academically. The classes are not big which provides a better teacher-student relationship. The faculty is friendly and always willing to help. The work does challenge you but what good is an education if you aren't being challenged right?
Dorm Life
The dorm life at Saint Xavier is nice. There are two different buildings you are allowed to stay in your first year. The rooms are nicely furnished and clean when you arrive. The RA's often plan activities to help bring the building together, making it easier to make new friends.
Food and Dining
At Saint Xavier the food is delicious. The dining area was just remodeled a couple of months ago and looks nice. The dining area serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is open from 7am-7pm Monday-Friday. They have different selections such as a hamburger station and a salad bar.
What to do for fun
Saint Xavier always have activities for students to get involved in. They organize bowling trips, trips downtown, as well as parties, movie nights, and improvement shows.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many clubs and organizations to join. They have clubs such as BSU (Black Student Union) as well as MSPJ (Mercy Sisters of Peace and Justice). Saint Xavier has bible study once a week and Mass twice on Sundays. There are many activities to join in and are not limited to the ones listed above.
Campus Safety
Saint Xavier is well protected. There are multiple security officers driving through the campus patrolling the area. They travel and protect every piece of land that Saint Xavier owns, including off campus apartments.

Aaron from Chicago, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Xavier University offers a small college at top quality. This University is small enough for students to have great one on one help from professors. Saint Xavier really takes care of their students academically and socially.
Tips for prospective students
If you are applying to Saint Xavier make sure you have enough financial aid because this school is expensive. Prepare for to be in a small peaceful college setting.
Academic Rigor
The classes at Saint Xavier are not the hardest but they do challenge students and if you are having trouble you can always meet with the professor for more assistance
Dorm Life
Life on campus at Saint Xavier is awesome. There are plenty of on campus activities and social events to mingle and get to know your fellow students.
Food and Dining
Saint Xavier offers a diner for a variety of selections. There is also a sit down restaurant called Gihooley's and there is a subway where students can use their meal plan to purchase food.
What to do for fun
Saint Xavier has many clubs and student organizations that students can join or attend meeting to have fun. Their are monthly improve shows held as well as a formal dance each semester. Saint Xavier also offers sport intramural for students to form teams and participate in sport competitions.
Bang for the buck
Saint Xavier offers a lot to do in a small college setting but I personally feel the tuition is a bit overpriced.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Saint Xavier has its on lake, Lake Marion where in the spring you can find ducks, geese, and even turtles at time.
Great for these types of students
Saint Xavier is great for students transitioning from high school into college because of its small setting you still get the one on one attention with professors and you can easily make and keep friends. Saint Xavier is a great place for students who are more introverted and extroverted.
Clubs and Activities
Saint Xavier offers many different clubs to join and meetings to attend. Each club has a board where you learn general information about them. If you have a new idea you want to promote you can fill out the proper paper work and start your own student organization.
Campus Safety
Saint Xavier has Public Safety security which is on the clock 24 hours a day seven days a week. Each student is required to swipe in at each dorm and must sign in guest. There are desk workers to monitor the access to each hall. Public safety cars patrol the campus periodically keeping life on campus and in the area safe.

Vanessa from Chicago, IL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Saint Xavier University is a wonderful school with so many resources that are available on campus for example their library has the most resources in the Chicago land area. Saint Xavier is all equipped and up to date with the latest equipment such as Ipads and computers for students; which is available to students at all times . Saint Xavier also has a warm and welcoming feeling when going there everyday all the professors and staff are all so nice.
Tips for prospective students
Apply online and get started ASAP!!!
Academic Rigor
All professors and doctors are great!
Dorm Life
I do not live in a dorm, I commute.
Food and Dining
At Saint Xavier their food and dining is one of the best diners that is given to us compared to other schools.
What to do for fun
At Saint Xavier there are plenty of things to do for fun, one of my favorites is to go to church.