University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA, USA

Reviews

University of Iowa

Lorena from La Grange Park, IL

a current student here
28 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The faculty at the University of Iowa is very qualified and interacts well with their students to provide them with a great educational experience. In a school the size of Iowa, both discussion sections and lectures are the predominant forms of learning. With discussion sections being smaller, the more intimate setting makes for lively conversation and more individual attention. Lectures, on the other hand, are very large, with sometimes over 500 students in attendance. However, I have found it comforting to know that despite the class size, the professors are readily available via office hours, email, or directly after class. Professors challenge their students and have high expectations to help them be the best.
Am enjoying being here
Living in Illinois, I had many in-state school choices, but after visiting the Iowa campus, I felt that I belonged here. Not only did I feel completely welcomed and accepted by fellow classmates and upperclassmen, but the faculty as well. As a result of this, I have met so many wonderful people and have formed solid friendships. Iowa is a truly beautiful school and campus that provides their students with opportunities that I believe are the best in preparing you for your future. Students are not only encouraged to become involved with various academic groups or extracurricular activities, but Iowa does an excellent job of planning school sponsored events for students to engage with other students, helping you to feel like a Hawkeye from the beginning. True school spirit is clearly demonstrated and practiced at not only sporting events, but other functions such as Dance Marathon and Homecoming. There’s nothing better than attending a Big Ten football game on a Saturday morning at Kinnick Stadium – even if you’re not a sports fan. It’s true when they say It's great to be a Hawkeye.
Bang for the buck
Being an out-of- state student, at first view the tuition seemed high. In comparison to other Big Ten schools, I found that for such a quality education, Iowa is ranked as one of the best deals. Iowa is a beautiful campus that is very well maintained, and Iowa City offers numerous entertainment opportunities involving local restaurants, theater and music performances, shopping, and hotels, all within walking distance from the campus. For students living on campus, the dorm facilities are exceptional. Not only did I find that the rooms are the most spacious out of the many schools I visited, but also that the bathrooms are very up to date and kept in great condition. The dorm halls and facilities are also very well cared for by both students and maintenance personnel. Dining centers at the University of Iowa are fantastic. So many different meal choices are offered on a regular basis, the dining facilities are kept very clean, and the employees are very friendly. Classroom buildings at the University of Iowa are equipped with the latest technological materials, providing students with an enhanced learning experience. Iowa is also great for students interested in the medical field, as “University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics [is] recognized as one of the best hospitals in the United States.”
Tips for prospective students
As a student coming into the University of Iowa, one important piece of advice I would follow is to get involved in a school activity or group whether it's something as big as Dance Marathon or a smaller club. Joining any group is a great opportunity to meet other students and become more involved.
Great for these types of students
The University of Iowa is a great fit for anyone whether you're more gregarious or more shy and reserved. With all that Iowa has to offer, it makes it simple for students of all backgrounds and personalities to find something that appeals to them.

Kelly from Tiffin, IA

a current student here
18 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The faculty at the University of Iowa are extremely intent on their students learning excellent material that they will later apply to their future career. Despite the university being a large school in the Big Ten, the professors and teacher assistants are extremely driven to making sure you know what is going on in the class. Many professors hold office hours multiple times per week, which is great considering the fact that it may be difficult to ask questions in lectures that more than 400 students attend. Students are also able to contact their teachers via email, which I especially appreciate because the faculty responds extremely quickly. Overall, the education that I have received in my first year of college has been amazing and I cannot believe how much I have already learned.
Am enjoying being here
I love the University of Iowa and I would never take back my decision to attend school here. From football games to Kinnick stadium to theater performances at Hancher auditorium, there is always something for students to do in their free time. The university sponsors many events every week that students may attend free of charge, which is wonderful because everyone knows that college students are not swimming in cash. For example, during Homecoming 2008, the University of Iowa brought in the band Rooney and Chuck Berry to play after the pep rally. Being able to see the old and the new of music for free before a major football game was an amazing experience, and I expect the University of Iowa to continue exciting events such as this in the future.
Bang for the buck
The in-state tuition is one of the lowest in the state and many students migrate from the Chicagoland area to receive Iowa's out-of-state tuition. That says a lot, considering there are many great schools in Illinois. The quality of the education students receive at the University of Iowa is amazing, especially for students interested in health care fields. Access to a major research hospital (the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics) provides an excellent incentive to attend this school.
Tips for prospective students
I would recommend future students to participate in extracurricular activities provided by the University of Iowa. They are a great way to get away from the books and allow you to take a break from all of the studying that is required at college.
Great for these types of students
The University of Iowa is a great fit for anyone, in my opinion. Outgoing, extroverted students will appreciate the large size of the school while more introverted students would love the attentiveness of the faculty. Jocks will love the fact that Iowa is a Big Ten university and theater buffs will adore the productions put on by the University of Iowa and the opportunity to participate in these productions.

Emily

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There is so much to learn here! Between all of the possible courses to choose from and learning all the aspects of the campus and city you will never get bored. I have already learned so much and cannot wait to learn more! Iowa has some great top-rated programs and is a great place to be when looking for a strong education. Also, all the different opportunities other than schooling that are provided here can teach you so much about other things and about yourself. College is one huge learning experience and I am so glad that I am getting that experience here at Iowa.
Am enjoying being here
Moving to Iowa City was a much easier transition than I thought it would be. There is so much to get involved in on campus and so many people to meet, you can't help but to love being in this wonderful college town. I love that there is always something going on if I'm bored, or if I need to buckle down and study I can pick from numerous locations to sit at and bury my head in textbooks for hours. My experience here in my first three months of college has been absolutely great so far and I cannot wait for the next three years!
Bang for the buck
This university is a great deal for those from the state of Iowa. It is expensive for out-of-state students, but compared to other out-of-state schools Iowa is definitely one of the lower-priced. The education and experiences you will receive here are absolutely worth the money.
Tips for prospective students
Pick the school that you feel is right for you and that you have fallen in love with. It may seem like an impossible decision, but in the end you will know where you belong! Don't stress out too much and just enjoy your search for the perfect college for you.
Great for these types of students
The University of Iowa has some nationally top-ranked programs, so if those are something you are interested in I would definitely take a closer look at Iowa. This school is so diverse and anyone would fit in here as long as you are willing to be a Hawkeye for life!

Jacob from Elmhurst, IL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Iowa City is a fabulous learning environment. In my first semester, all of my professors were very knowledgeable in each of their respective fields. I feel that at Iowa classes and degree requirements are designed to enable students to actually learn class material instead of just cram for the grade.
Am enjoying being here
I don't have enough good things to say about Iowa City. The university's campus is nestled right next to downtown which makes it very easy to go out and eat every once and a while. Iowa's parties and tailgating are awesome, better than any of my friend's school choices. If big parties aren't your thing, there's plenty of other things to do day in and day out. The only reason you can be bored in Iowa City is if you want to be bored.
Bang for the buck
I'm a student that doesn't have a lot of money, Iowa's financial aid department really helped me out. While the out of state tuition might scare away some people, all the experiences and the Big-10 education is totally worth it. Iowa's a school that gives out a lot of money for those students who look for it. Use the university's website to look for scholarships to apply for.
Tips for prospective students
Get your football season tickets and housing application in early. If you're a business student then definitely live on the East side of the river. Don't be afraid to try new things and meet new people.
Great for these types of students
The University of Iowa is a great place for students who like to party. Be warned, most students take academics very seriously. Just remember: study hard, then party hard.

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Iowa is definitely the perfect school for me. My professors and TAs strive to make my classes interesting and challenging so that I want to learn the material. Beyond academics, Iowa has so many diverse extracurricular opportunities available that it is almost impossible not to find your perfect place here right away.
Tips for prospective students
Put high school or community college behind you right away mentally. Being at a large University like Iowa is a completely different world than what you're used to. That might sound terrifying, but it's actually exhilarating. There are so many opportunities available to you that can completely change your life, but you have to be willing to step out of your comfort zone! Go Greek, join a few too many clubs, take a class you never would have taken in high school, wander around downtown. Make the most of your time on your visits and in your first few weeks; if you take chances here, they'll pay off eventually.
Academic Rigor
I was a student who never felt challenged in high school. That changed entirely once I came to college. Instead of being surrounded by a wide array of academic abilities, everyone is in classes with students very similar to themselves, and that creates a really competitive atmosphere. It's hard not to get discouraged learning how to study or write better as an adult, but you adapt and it gets easier. Iowa helps, too. The professors and classes are tough, but profs and TAs are willing to work with anyone who asks for it. There are other resources, too, like dorm study sessions, success coaches, Math Lab, Writing Workshop, and so much more.
Dorm Life
I currently live in a dorm and I love it. You live right next door to some of your best friends and the rooms are actually really high quality for the most part. Everything is secure and kept up to date; I have no complaints.
Food and Dining
Hillcrest dining hall is better than Burge, but other than that there really are no issues here. As someone who eats clean and healthy, I was initially concerned that the dining at a big school wouldn't meet my needs, but I was wrong. Everyday there are a variety of fresh veggies and fruits available, and healthy meal options that are delicious. There's also a big variety, since you can eat at either Hillcrest or Burge dining halls or other meal-deal option places in Papajohn Business Building, the IMU, or the c-stores.
What to do for fun
It's hard to be bored in Iowa City. The rec has fun workout classes posted on their website every day, a swimming pool, workout equipment, a climbing wall, and other options if that's your thing. You can easily catch a bus, drive, or bum a ride to Coalville mall and ice skating rink. The campus and surrounding area is great for a walk, run, bike ride, roller blade, or whatever you like to do. It's easy to find a club or organization of people who like to do the same things you do, like play or sing music, talk about and practice photography, play intramural and club sports, and more. Joining a Greek organization gives you tons of opportunities to volunteer and go out, but also helps you make so many friends that there's always a brother or sister to hang out with. Downtown Iowa City has so many options, too. You can go to one of the museums on campus, shop, go to the bars and dance, go out to eat, and more. I've never had a dull moment at the University of Iowa.
Bang for the buck
The University of Iowa is pretty low priced for such a prestigious school; many of my friends are from out of state and they say it's worth it too. There are also so many grants and scholarships available that make it more affordable. You definitely get more than you pay for here.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The brain rock. Touch it for good luck before every exam!
Clubs and Activities
There's truly something for everyone here, from social organizations to music, athletics, volunteering, medical, and more. Personally, I think that Iowa's Greek Life and Dance Marathon are the best anywhere.
Greek Life
GO GREEK. I never thought I would be saying that, but joining my organization was the best decision I've made so far. Originally, I believed that sororities were just like the rumors, movies, and stereotypes depict them to be; bratty, catty, snobbish rich girls who pay for their friends, only care about drinks and boys, and think they're better than everyone else. I couldn't have been more wrong! I made some of my best friends rushing and joining my sorority, and I've had so many opportunities from it. We're dedicated to our philanthropy and service, career building, academics, and extracurricular participation in addition to having fun. At Iowa, greek life is strong and has a great standing as a group of young men and women getting ready to help the world. Sure, we love to have fun, too, but who doesn't?
Campus Safety
Our campus takes safety of students very seriously. Our partnership with the police department is strong, and any report of misconduct is met by action within the student body. There are options like NightRide and SafeRide available to transport students at night, and students are often reminded how to stay safe on campus and in the city.

Kevin from Crystal Lake, IL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The education is top-notch here at U of Iowa. The campus is beautiful and it's a Big Ten school with a small school feeling. At University of Iowa you will really feel like it's your home away from home.
Tips for prospective students
Definitley have University of Iowa on your list of colleges to view. It is a nation-wide known university and people come from all over the world to attend here. I can't even describe how amazing this school it is, you really have to see it for yourself.
Academic Rigor
The courses here are challenging as with most Big Ten schools. However, if you put forth effort there is no reason that you won't succeed. Don't slack off!
Dorm Life
The dorms are much bigger here than any other college I looked at. Not only that, but the communities you build in your dorm will last you through college and even beyond.
Food and Dining
The cafeterias here provide a ton of different options each day. It is super convenient for everyone living in the dorms as there is one cafe on each side of campus.
What to do for fun
University of Iowa is known as a huge party school but there is way more than just that. There are famous comedians that come once a month (Keenan Thompson, Joel McHale, BJ Novak to name a few). They also have movies showing each weekend that just came out of theaters and aren't on DVD yet for only 2 dollars! Night games is another once a month thing that includes volleyball/dodgeball tournaments and fun for everyone!

Melanie

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
From tailgating, downtown Iowa City, and a beautiful campus... The University of Iowa is the PERFECT college town. The professors care about you, even in a class of 300. There's so many opportunities, you WILL find the place you fit in.
Tips for prospective students
Are you scared of a big school? Don't let that be the reason you don't attend The University of Iowa. You can let the school feel as big or as small as you want. Depending on your major, there might be classes where you can't get out of attending big lectures, but if you sit in the first few rows, you completely forget that there are people behind you! Scared you won't make friends? Sign up for Greek Recruitment! Even if you are 100% positive you won't join greek life, you will make lots of friends through the process of recruitment! It's inevitable.
Academic Rigor
The classes are only as hard as you make them. If you maintain perfect attendance, I promise you that you won't fail. There are definitely weed-out classes for Nursing/Pre-med students. Just be prepared! Go to your Professors Office Hours... they want to help you! You won't have troubles finding a place to study, the library if perfect and the higher the floor, the quieter it gets.
Dorm Life
LIVE IN THE DORMS YOUR FRESHMAN YEAR. I went into college knowing only a few kids from my hometown. My floor mates were life savers with that. We all would go out together the first few weekends. Eventually, everyone is best friends. There are movie nights, floor dinners, and parties in the corner room that our RA doesn't know about. Yes, roommates fight. But it's part of the experience. It will make for good stories. The dorms are cleaned everyday and the showers are rarely gross(rarely is mostly towards the morning after we went 12-0 in football!)
Food and Dining
There are definitely many options. We have two main dining halls, Hillcrest and Burge(one on each side of the Iowa river.) They are buffet style, and so it can be hard to make yourself stop! By the end of first semester, you will be convince you're tired of the food.. but after winter break you'll be really excited to eat it again! Dining is really cool because they will make theme meals for us like around Thanksgiving and other holidays.
What to do for fun
No matter what you want to get involved in, there is a place for you at The University of Iowa! A lot of people are involved in Dance Marathon, and I recommend that for sure! Greek life is growing, as well. I personally like intramural sports because I'm not too competitive. If you need volunteer hours, a lot of people volunteer at The University of Iowa Children's Hospital or even the Ronald McDonald House! Downtown Iowa City is always lively, even on Wednesday nights. No, you don't have to drink to have fun!(Please, don't let our high party school ranking scare you away.) There are so many things to do besides drinking. There are a wide variety of writers that come to Iowa City and read their poems and books to an audience. There are always movies playing through CAB(Campus Activities Board.) Last week, CAB put on a Laser Tag event just like out of How I Met Your Mother! There really is something for everyone at this school.
Bang for the buck
Within our tuition, we get to go to all sporting events for free(besides Football & Men's basketball.) We get a huge recreation center, student health & wellness benefits, and more specific options!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Brain Rock! It's a big boulder right outside Pomerantz Center. Before(and sometimes after if we really need it.) tests, students will touch/hug the rock in hopes of good luck.
Clubs and Activities
Iowa had over 500 clubs and organizations! At Orientation, they have a speaker talk about how you should Pick One! and go from there. It's a really good idea!
Greek Life
It's growing largely, and I personally recommend it. You meet a lot of people, get involved in things right from the start, and also get a lot of chances for a good resume builder!
Campus Safety
I have PERSONALLY always felt safe. But I won't lie to you, we have gotten HawkAlerts saying that people have been assaulted before. A lot of times, however, it is by someone that the victim previously knew. So it's definitely possible to happen anywhere. If you are coming from a small town, it could be a shock because there are a ton of different races, and types of people. But I strongly believe that the majority of them are safe. I just say you should walk with a buddy. ESPECIALLY if you have been drinking. Don't go the back ways at night, I also carry pepper spray on my key chain! But I have never even had to get it out.

Ashley

researching this school
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Iowa is a school full of spirit and wonderful academics! There are so many useful resources around the campus. This school has something to offer for everyone.
Tips for prospective students
Keep your GPA and Class Rank up to get the RAI score of 255 for out-of-state students and 245 for in-state students.
Academic Rigor
I know that Iowa has many different programs and they all vary based on academic rigor. I've heard that the nursing and engineering programs are top-notch.
Dorm Life
When visiting this campus, I was super impressed with the dorms. There are a multitude of residence halls and the dorms were very nice and clean. They were a lot bigger than other dorms I've visited.
Food and Dining
There are two dining halls here and both are equally great. There are tons of options which makes it much more enjoyable and all of the food was delicious. The setting of these dining halls is similar to a food court offering all types of food such as Italian, kitchen, Chinese, and a salad bar.
What to do for fun
There are shops, coffee houses, and all kinds of exciting places in downtown Iowa City. You can also always work out in the absolutely amazing fitness facility or head to Coralville for shopping at the mall or more dining options.
Clubs and Activities
Iowa offers over 200 clubs and organizations. They have a huge intramural program where students can participate in sports against other students from the school. There are clubs on practically every area of interest and it's always possible to create your own!

Rachel from Fredericksburg, IA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The English department at this school is a very well-developed program. The countless classes offered provide students with fantastic opportunities to pursue the things they love regarding English. Professors are all concerned for the well-being and success of each student and are all willing to work with students in order to help them reach their full potential.
Tips for prospective students
Finish your foreign language in high school. One requirement for most majors here is four semesters of a foreign language. Because there are so many other great classes to experience and foreign languages take up a lot of the semester, I recommend that students take that foreign language in high school, if possible.
Academic Rigor
The courses are all challenging and require that students work hard. This is beneficial because it truly prepares students for their future careers. The professors all provide office hours in which students can go if they feel like they are falling behind.
Dorm Life
The dorms are what most college dorms are like, sharing bathrooms, and long hallways. But the experiences you have in the dorms outweighs those shared bathrooms by far.
Food and Dining
Nothing beats Mama's cooking, but this school comes close. There is a wide variety of dining options all throughout campus, and everyone has their particular favorite.
What to do for fun
Tailgating! Support your Hawks before every home game! This is huge at the university and it often starts early in the morning. It's great fun for family and friends alike!

Alexis

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Iowa is a fantastic place to go to gain a higher education. Many of my family members have attended and absolutely loved it. I am very excited to be attending Iowa this fall.
Academic Rigor
Iowa has many courses to choose from, a fantastic library available for use, and plenty of tutors willing to help out.
Dorm Life
There are many different dorms to chose from to accompany your needs. Also Iowa has a terrific roommate matching system.
Food and Dining
I've eaten in Iowa's dining halls before and the food is fantastic!