University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL, USA

Reviews

University of North Florida

Carly from Florida

a current student here
28 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Take advantage of professor's office hours!! They are more than willing to sit down with you!
Am enjoying being here
Lazy River pool!
Great people
Several organized events AND concerts!
Bang for the buck
New facillities
Great on-campus housing
Tons of extra-curricular activities
Nice gym
Close to the beach
Tips for prospective students
The sooner you apply, the better your chances are of being accepted.
Tour the campus!
Great for these types of students
Students who enjoy being outdoors, our campus has several nature trails. It also encompases the beauty of the surrounding area.
Students who want to learn.
UNF is VERY close to the beach and there is always something to do.

Lindsay from Orange Park, FL

a current student here
19 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At UNF, you will have so many choices of taking different classes. As a freshman enrolling at UNF, you are required to take a few different electives to expand your knowledge of the real world. Don't skip class, though! Attendance may not always be mandatory for certain classes, but you will regret falling behind and not everyone may take the same notes for you to study.
Am enjoying being here
UNF offeres a wide range of students. There is plenty of GREEK life for students to learn more about, and there is a lot of different events and activities on campus that hand out free food and prizes. The Student Union center is where all the fun activities are held and oftentimes you will meet many people just hangin' around the bookstore or library.
Bang for the buck
Having scholarships really do help, so focus and keep up the GPA so you don't lose your scholarship as college is an expensive investment!
Tips for prospective students
Leave your house/dorm/apartment early enough to beat the morning class traffic. Parking is limited so if you do not have a premium parking pass, you will have to purchase a daily pass for $3.00 and park in the parking lots in the back. From there if you do not feel like walking you may take a UNF shuttle but be careful, they stop at every stop and you may be late for class. Prepare yourself and make sure you are up early to get a great start.
Great for these types of students
Students who enjoy the rush of a busy campus life, and those who are dedicated to putting time away for study hours.

Rebekah from Orlando, FL

a current student here
14 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned a lot from my classes here. The professors are knowledgeable and approachable, and most class sizes are small and give you a more personal interaction with your fellow classmates and professors. The professors have office hours were you can stop by and ask questions, or you can email them if you so choose through Blackboard. You have the opportunity to learn more than what you need to know in order to pass. If you seek more information, you can head over to the rather enormous on-campus library, where you can study until late at night, with Starbucks just around the corner. Internships are available as well as research opportunities.
Am enjoying being here
I LOVED being a student here; I truly wish I didn't have to transfer home for financial reasons. The campus is absolutely gorgeous with all of its foliage, lakes, and geese (the geese are everywhere)! You often see students out on the campus green playing Frisbee or just lying down for a nap in the grass between classes. The Performing Arts Center is truly a sight, with its majestic columns and beautiful decoration. Its so easy to make friends with the laid back atmosphere of campus life. There are also plenty on on-campus jobs for those seeking to earn an extra buck. There is a huge shopping center not 5 miles from the school as well, for those who wish to work off campus. Some of the restaurants even except the UNF “Ozzie Bucks.” I loved going to UNF!
Bang for the buck
You definitely get more bang for your buck at UNF. My stay at the Fountains dorm was like staying in a luxury hotel - lazy river, full size pool, laundry/kitchen/trash rooms on every floor, and a game room, 24 hour gym, and convenience store right downstairs. If you sign up for a meal plan, you can choose between 10, 14, or 19 meals a week, where you can choose to eat at the buffet-style cafeteria (they will be remodeling next year) or the many on-campus restaurants, or both! There is also a full gym (currently being remodeled, and temporarily stationed at the on-campus arena) that is free for UNF students with their UNF ID. At the Performing Arts Center, students can enjoy many free performances by both local and famous groups (BOB gave a performance this year!). There are nature trails, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing ponds, all free to UNF students. Not to mention that UNF is about 10 minutes from the beach.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early! And consider applying for programs such as the Honors Program, which look great on resumes. Take time to figure out what and when you eat before you choose a meal plan. And trust me, the food doesn’t suck. Decide whether or not you want comfort or the basics before you apply for housing and make sure you read up on the perks each dorm has. You can also choose which roommates you want. I wish I’d known about all of the free services UNF had to offer before I went out and bought them for myself. If you’re planning on joining any sort of ensemble or team, make sure you email the coach or director beforehand to discuss auditions and tryouts – you may need time to prepare. And always check out the scholarships UNF offers!
Great for these types of students
UNF is great for any student who wants to go away to college. The dorms feel more and more like home and it’s great to live with your friends. The students at UNF are there because they are serious about their education. UNF is great for students who work hard and aren’t afraid to ask questions. That’s what the counselors are there for. Students looking to go into Nursing would have ample opportunity at the wonderful Nursing Program at UNF. The Business Program is also good. Students who wish to make a difference will find their niche in the Student Government. Students looking for leadership opportunities will have plenty options.

Sloane from Valrico, FL

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here generally take their time teaching the material. You really learn as much as you are willing to though. I've realized that one of the best things about UNF is that the classes are never so huge that the professor doesn't have time to answer questions or give individual help. I think that this kinda goes along with the whole UNF saying, No one like you, no place like this.
Am enjoying being here
I love the fact that UNF is a smaller university, but still has a lot going on throughout the campus. I'm never overwhelmed, but I can always find something to do. I've also really enjoyed running through the nature trails and kayaking on the lake (UNF is basically on a nature preserve I believe). Being an active person, I have found it really convenient that I can walk to the pool, gym, and nature trails in under 15 minutes no matter where I am on campus. Everything is very compact, but not so squished together that the campus is cramped. The dorms are also very spacious and well taken care of. Oh, and the beach is 5-10 minutes away from campus. Being someone without a car, it's nice to know that I could at least go for a 30 minute run and reach the ocean.
Bang for the buck
Right now I have everything I need right here on campus, however there is a lot of construction going on. A new cafeteria and wellness center are being built right now, meaning the gym is temporarily in the arena and the cafeteria is dispersed wherever. Other than that, UNF offers a lot that I would consider a bang for the buck. At the nature trails you can check out free camping gear, surfboards, kayaks, canoes, and various outdoorsy equipment. There's also a lot of free food events, clubs to get involved with, free admission to sporting events of course...I also think being so close to the beach is great because, besides gas, that is free fun right there! Oh, and the education is pretty great too. Free tutoring is offered on a pretty regular basis. It has helped me out tremendously.
Tips for prospective students
I will be honest, UNF is not as hard to get into as UF or FSU...but it is a growing school that I think is only getting better. I would definitely apply early, and focus on SAT scores, plus community service. UNF will really reward those students who come in with great GPAs and test scores as well. They also take a lot of AP credits. When I got here I got full credit for my AP Macro-economics, AP Psych, and AP Literature.
Great for these types of students
I think UNF is a great school for someone who is looking to go to a University to learn and grow as a person, not just for the parties, football, and Greek life. In a way it's great that UNF doesn't have the craziness (frat houses, football games, bars on campus) that some other schools have that can be potentially distracting. Often times the campus is very quiet and serene. There are plenty of shops, clubs, and fun places right outside of the campus to enjoy. It's like having the best of both worlds really. If you can see yourself at a school where the teacher knows your name, there is a facebook page for everything, salt-life is a common car sticker, Starbucks is the place to be, and dub-step/alternative rock music can be frequently heard over the speakers in the student union...then this is the place for you.

Tyler from Riverview, FL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of North Florida is a great institution for individualism, respect, education, and nature. It is by far one of the most unique Universities in Florida, because of it's wonderful location, and the free-spirited student body that is a proud Osprey!
Tips for prospective students
Make sure that you can enjoy down time, and when the time calls be a social butterfly. Like any college you have to make sure to keep an open mind, a open heart, and willing to go out and try new things.
Academic Rigor
The classes at UNF tend to be a little smaller, but you still have your big lecture classes. With that in mind, whether you're in lecture or breakout you will always have teachers willing to help, everyone I've ever had has given us office hours multiple times a week. Just make sure to take advantage of those times.
Dorm Life
The R.A's at UNF are so chill. Its a lot of fun being on campus, longboarding the garages at night, to star gazing on the green after dark. Most of your wild parties happen off campus, so dont try and get away with that here. But, otherwise there are always activites, clubs, sporting events going on within campus. There is a game room, and restaurants on campus also. Honestly, UNF is the hippest place outside downtown.
Food and Dining
Since the old cafeteria was knocked down it's been a little worse, but the fact that we're going to have a buffet, and 3 stories of dining options this next year is so awesome. Im gonna do most of my studying in there from now on.
What to do for fun
Jacksonville is a huge city so you can honestly do anything if you're creative enough. A lot of bars like to play awesome jazz music, as Jacksonville, and UNF have some of the most amazing jazz artists locally. Also, living close to the beach is a plus, you got surfing, skating, and all the concerts that come to free-bird. A lot can happen, just be willing to go out of your way to do things cause Jacksonville is a large city.
Bang for the buck
With how modern everything is, and all the renovation with new buildings popping up everywhere, and state of the art facilities you're definitely getting what you pay for here. Plus who doesn't want to live on a national forest, with miles of trails, lakes, a zip-line course. And a lazy river for peet sakes.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Check out the green. it's the bomb, always stuff going on there.
Also, the 4th and 5th floor of the fountains north tower.
Clubs and Activities
We have the coolest clubs. my favorite being: biology club, organic gardening, and cardio birds.
Greek Life
ughh it's whatevaa
Campus Safety
We were ranked #3 in the nation for campus safety. suck on them apples.

Tasha from Florida

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I would rate UNF at a 4 out of 5 stars. All the faculty and staff are very helpful. Traditional classes are almost never larger than 30 students and lecture halls average about 250 at most which is different from many universities. The school is always improving upon itself and trying to stay cutting edge.
Tips for prospective students
I would greatly advise that prospective students not only visit the school, but attend one campus event such as a musical performance, one of the various sporting events, or a play at Lazzara Theatre, so they can see how other students enjoy the college experience. I would also advise looking online at the schools multiple freshman and transfer student scholarships.
Academic Rigor
Many classes here as in any place are challenging, but all the teachers are more than willing to help students succeed. I love how enthusiastic my professors are about topics in their field. There is also an office for free tutors on campus whom are equally helpful and enthusiastic.
Dorm Life
Residence Assistants (RA's) are some of the nicest, coolest, and most outgoing people on campus. They are always planning something for students in the dorms to get together, make friends, and be active. Some of my fondest memories are in the dorm with my random roommates getting to know someone new, learning their interests, and hanging out.
Food and Dining
Besides our brand new 4 story buffet style cafeteria near the dorms and our Boathouse Grill (one of two wet areas on campus) near the Arena in the Student union, we also have many eateries around campus. We have both main stream (Sabarros, Starbucks, Jamba Juice, etc.) and some underground places (Salsaritas, Freshens, etc.). Their is also talk of possibly adding Chik fil a and Pizza Hut.
What to do for fun
Jacksonville is a large city with tons of things to do around the town; malls, movie theaters, parades, clubs, museums, festivals, the beach! On campus is even more entertaining: free movies on wednesdays, lots of on campus step shows, probates, and events by Frats and Sororities. We have 2-3 concerts a year featuring people such as BYOB, Ludacris, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, LMFAO, etc. We have market days, homecoming festivities, and more sports teams/events both NCAA and intramural than I can think of! So much free food and fun!
Bang for the buck
UNF has one of the lowest tuitions in the state and Florida in general has some of the lowest tuition rates in the country. Every bit of our tuition dollars goes back into serving the students in some way shape or form. We have a brand new cafeteria, a brand new 2 story fitness center with an indoor track and a rock climbing wall; we have a bus that takes you off campus to the nearest mall and a brand new Biology building. Student government funds many clubs and student events.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
UNF is actually built around some protected land, their is a great nature trail where you can rent camping gear and canoes for free. The school is very into the green movement and incorporates nature throughout the campus. its really pretty, but not too jungle-like for the less outdoorsy people.
Great for these types of students
Students looking for a cheaper public school with small classes will be attracted to this school. Students who enjoy nature, but don't want to particularly attend a college in the middle of the woods will also find this college appealing. This is also a good school who want to have fun and get involved on campus, but don't want to feel like they have applied to the University of Disney World or pay Disney world prices to attend/live.
Clubs and Activities
As far as clubs anyone who can get together 25 friends for one cause Student Government will help fund your club. African American Student Union (AASU) is a large club. Respect Check Protect (RCP) is also large and active on campus. Their are clubs for just about every major and for sports.
Greek Life
We have many of the Divine Nine and traditional black international organizations. We also have many of the traditional white organizations as well. Though it is important to keep in mind none of them discriminate based on color/race. Their is a great deal of Hispanic and multicultural organizations as well. They are very active on and off campus promoting fun, friendship, public service, merit, and professionalism.
Campus Safety
Security is very important on campus. The campus is well lite in all major areas (near classes, parking lots, dorming areas, major walking paths). All doors are opened with electronic keys that must be pre-programed so that no one can get in any private areas or rooms that is not assigned to their key. Buses run from 7am to 3am to take students to the living areas, student union, arena, and parking lots. If it is late at night and you feel you don't want to go to your car across campus after class alone a cop will come and escort you. We also have emergency call buttons throughout the campus in case of emergencies.

A from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Friendly, Active, Fun
Tips for prospective students
Although the University of Florida is said to not be as active as other colleges, the University actually has many opportunities to socialize and spread your wings. There are many group activities and events you can be a part of if you are looking for them, don't be derailed by a singular idea of what active and fun is if you are looking for a great college experience its one part the college and another you exerting yourself and putting yourself out there to find what suits you and what you find enjoyable there are plenty of friendly club's and things to do if you look for them. My tip is not to rely on the college but on yourself to make sure you get the most out of college and your studies as a whole; be proactive.
Academic Rigor
Certain classes are tougher than others, but that is what rate my professor is for. If you randomly sign up for a class last minute the chance's of getting a teacher that you may not understand or mesh well with is high. You certainly grow from it, when you have to put twice as much effort to make it in the class. Overall, the classes if chosen wisely push you just enough that you don't become overly stressed.
Dorm Life
I have only partially experienced dorm life, but If you are thinking about it. Make sure you are able to live with others and not sign up at the last minute. The dorm's can be fun once you make friends and can be a wonderful experience.it is a great way to make memories. I think the best dorm's to socialize in would be the Landing, they have a common area where you can make friends with everyone else who lives there, it has more of that movie college life appeal often seen; the shared bathroom would be worth it.
Food and Dining
So, the cafe food is not the best in the world but its still pretty good you can get the specials too. I had a Bok Choy wrap that was delicious and interesting eggroll enchilada's. The other place's to eat could be Chick Fil a, Coyote Jack, Papa Johns, The boathouse and several other quick place's to eat where you can study inside or socialize with friends. Grabbing a Cappuccino in the morning from Starbucks before class is also always enjoyable.
What to do for fun
There are many event's that go on at UNF, such as the Wednesday market and music events. They often hold event's such as battle of the bands, study abroad, movie nights, rocky horror show, and possibly some celebrity event like the recent comedy show. There is also the zip line to go across and plenty of club events and student body event's like the flash mob for the thriller that was held awhile back. Club's in general are fun to join because of the meetings attended and being able to sit around and chat in the club room. If you are into games there is also a game room where you can throw yourself into the virtual world or possibly do a board game or pool with a few friends.
Bang for the buck
I don't use most of what I spend on tuition so I can't say i get the full bang out of my buck. I often miss many of the event's but I enjoy attending overall because of the ability of being able to choose to attend events and be able to confer with counselors about my future endeavors. If you are an active student, then this probably will not be a problem for you. You can certainly get a lot out of the experiences.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
I think the most interesting location in the University of North Florida is the bamboo garden, During the spring the leave's fall down in multicolored patterns and you can see the squirrels climbing around its a great and unique place at the university for students to calm down or study and take in the sights.
Great for these types of students
If you are a student who goes at their own pace and doesn't want to be pushed into one thing or another. Then this university would be best for you, there are counselors who will guide you and help you to understand your goals. The are clubs all around to choose from and different place's to study in. It is a school where your choice's create the opportunities you further pursue.
Clubs and Activities
There is a vast amount of clubs to join, there are language clubs, cultural clubs, academic clubs, activity clubs such as paintball, and even clubs for those who want to work with the community like the volunteer club. If you are looking for an activity there will always be a schedule on the unf website or on the posters and boards around the unf campus. More often than not you will always be able to find something to do.
Greek Life
I actually know nothing about the greek like except for the meeting I had with multicultural sorority. They were friendly and kind people who were open to newcomers and easy to relate to, their club looked like it had a great community and wonderful activities.
Campus Safety
There are blue boxes all around the campus in case of an emergency and warnings are always prompted if danger should arise from the weather or any other activity that might harm students.

MissLeopard31

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
UNF has everything you need in a 4-year education without the high price tag. You won't find a more diverse group of students anywhere else. Even the geese want to learn!
Tips for prospective students
Don't bank on being able to park on-campus as there are more students with Blue Parking passes than parking spaces. In fact, the permits were oversold this past semester. The best option is to park in lots 18 or 53 and taking the shuttles to class. Arrive early so you're not late to class.
Academic Rigor
I'm currently enrolled in the Brooks College of Health and the academic rigor is outstanding. Most professors who teach the daytime classes are full-time faculty. There are weekly assignments and exams every 2-3 weeks. You will learn a lot.
Dorm Life
I don't live on-campus
Food and Dining
Most of the food in Outtakes (the on-campus convenience store) is overpriced. There really isn't much to choose from - especially for people with food allergies or on special diets.
What to do for fun
Enjoy Ogier Garden, the wildlife (including the geese that love our campus so much they turn the sidewalks green), the various lakes, the on-campus get-togethers, etc.
Bang for the buck
I HIGHLY recommend the Brooks College of Health. You will not find a better college in this area to major in health sciences of any kind. I'm attending for my Bachelor's degree in Health Administration. The dean, the director of my program, and the advisors have never steered me wrong when I need help. Most of the professors really work hard to make sure their students are getting the most from their education. I can count on one hand the number of professors that have been so-so. They don't stay around for long.
Great for these types of students
Those majoring in health care or business.
Campus Safety
The police are on duty 24/7 and there are blue call boxes placed all over campus if you need 911 assistance or an officer to walk you to your car. I always feel safe here.

Page from Longwood, FL

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
University of North Florida is about the student experience and what the University can do for you. The accessability and caring of the faculty and staff gives you a great academic experience, and the up and coming status of the school gives students a great opportunity to have a unique college experience. University of North Florida is a highly recommended school choice.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus! You can't tell if a school is right for you from the website or brochure. Make the effort to try the university out, and see if it may be a good fit for you! University of North Florida is a great place to visit, so schedule a tour!
Academic Rigor
Classes are smaller then many larger schools, so you have a better relationship with the faculty. Academically it is challenging, but in a way that helps you succeed and become a better student, not in a way that drags you down.
Dorm Life
On-campus living is great! The rooms are larger then many universities, and there is a real sense of community within each building. The Housing staff is helpful and present, so you never feel like you don't know what to do or not know what's going on. Also, the housing is close to the academic buildings, so walking to classes is a breeze.
Food and Dining
University of North Florida has a brand new student Cafe (which is the cafeteria for the meal plans) and the food there is an excellent upgrade from the previous cafeteria! Also around campus are many other food places with a variety of options, even those with food restrictions such as vegetarian and vegan. Pizza, sushi, wraps, burritos, smoothies, you name it and it's on campus!
What to do for fun
There is always something going on on campus! Osprey Productions brings big name concerts to campus, movies nights are held in the student union, trivia nights, karaoke nights, plays and much, much more! Also, living in a large city, such as Jacksonville, there are a lot of places around town to hang out and have fun.
Bang for the buck
University of North Florida is growing as a college! All your student fees go towards things you can actually use, like the 100% free, new Student Wellness Complex (gym) with state of the art equipment and a rock climbing wall! Also, we have a high ropes course available to students and so much more! You really get your money's worth here, because everything is to make sure the student has a great college experience!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The campus is situated in the middle of a Nature Preserve, so we are ideal located. Slightly isolated with ourselves, but 10/15 minutes from Jacksonville Beach and 15 minutes from Downtown Jacksonville. You get the best of all worlds.
Great for these types of students
If you are ambitious, and want more out of a college experience then just good grades, University of North Florida is a place you should look into. Because it is up and coming, students have the opportunity to be a part of that and really get some unique experiences that wouldn't be available at a larger and more traditional college.
Clubs and Activities
There are more then can be described here! If you want something, UNF probably has it.
Greek Life
University of North Florida has a very large and present Greek Life. Although there is no official Greek housing, there is a very close community that has been built. If you are interested in Greek Life, I would highly recommend it.
Campus Safety
We have a great University Police Department, who are present and approachable. Safety is a big concern when moving about campus, and the crime in very low on campus.

Cierra from Frederick, MD

researching this school
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
A beautiful campus with lots of outdoor trails, the dorms are beautiful and spacious and the campus is fairly compact which makes walking really easy. The campus encourages biking and there are racks everywhere. The food is really good to and there are tons of options to choose from, not to mention the new gym is incredible!
Tips for prospective students
Take a tour! The campus is beautiful and the people are really nice. Also if a college knows you've toured it makes it just a little bit easier to get in because they know your seriously considering their school.
Academic Rigor
The classes are small for such a big school which is really nice because you get individualized attention and the few lecture classes have breakout sessions so you can make sure you understand the material. There are a lot of cool classes to choose from too and great study abroad options.
Dorm Life
The dorms have the best setup I've seen in any college I have visited, you have the option of a double and its cheaper but you can get a single room and share a bathroom with only one other person and a little kitchen with two more people. The security is great, you have to have your own key to get in your dorm room which means unless you're leaving it open your room mates can't steal your stuff.
Food and Dining
They have a lot of options all over the map, on campus there are pizza joints, grilles, sushi bars, frozen yogurt joints, and convenience stores and off campus there are a lot of really great restaurants surrounding the campus like bahama breeze and aj's pizza.
Great for these types of students
If you're outdoorsy you will love this place there are wooded paths all around campus and the campus has a rental station where you can get kayaks, canoes, and camping equipment free and take it off campus for up to a week.
Clubs and Activities
there is a lot to choose from, pages upon pages of active clubs.
Greek Life
they don't have houses but the Greek life is very active on campus.
Campus Safety
very safe, it is located in a great area there are blue lights all over campus in case you actually have to use one, the campus security is real police officers and the dorm security is locked down so you don't have to worry about random hobos or anything.