University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, WI, USA

Reviews

University of Wisconsin-Stout

Lindsey from West Allis, WI

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Just in my first year here at Stout, I have learned countless amounts of information spanning from who I am to what I learn in classes. Stout is a very technological school, when I first came to stout all I knew about computers was how to use Microsoft Word and play Solitaire. After just one year, studying Psychology, I have learned so much more about computers since we all get one from the school and use it almost everyday. The Internet brings the us all together since we can communicate with our professors and classmates and even new friends to get help on homework or plan social events.
My Professors were all really great too. They went beyond the book to help me understand certain concepts and apply what we learned in one class to a discussion we were having in another.
Stout is very environmentally friendly also. I was able to learn a lot about what will help or hinder out environment and how much what one person does can affect the whole world.
Because of interactions with all the people there, I was able to learn more about myself. I was able to take the new-found freedom i had and use it to pursue passions that i never knew i had until I went out on a limb and tried different things.
Am enjoying being here
I made so many new friends my first year and we all helped each other cope with the changes. My First Year Adviser was a very big help and made me learn to ask questions and figure out who i should ask the questions to. All my professors were a big help too. They were all nice and understanding of the changes we were going through but they didn't make classes any easier, they gave us enough challenges so that we could stay focused on school work and figure out how to plan our time around studying and social time. They also made class fun so we would feel like we missed out if we missed class. The campus is beautiful too, and even thought the town is smaller, there are still a lot of things that go on around campus and in town.
Bang for the buck
I'm not going to put 5 stars for this since college isn't free. However, Stout does put our money to good use. We pay about the same as what other colleges charge, but there are a few perks that we get and other colleges don't offer. For instance, we get a laptop, it works as well as it needs to and there are people to go to if we have computer troubles and need help. We also get to rent our books. No worrying over buying expensive books that we will only use for one semester and then they will college dust on our desks. Here at Stout we rent our books for a semester and then return them when we are done.
Tips for prospective students
There are a few tips i can give you to help you through your first year at college. First, get out of your comfort Zone. The first year makes this the easiest, just be more outgoing. No one really knows anyone else so make friends, join clubs and you will have a blast. Second, plan your time. You will have so many things to do that it's hard to keep it all organized. Find a system that works, and make sure you add some time by yourself to relax. College gets stressful but what gets you through it is friends to laugh with and the thought that all this is to prepare for your future career. It's all worth it. Third, go to class. There are times when you will just be too tired or maybe sick or just too stressed to go to a class. So go to class everyday because you never know when you will get sick and have to miss it. Keep in mind that even just a one hour class can have so much information packed into it that you will have to take much longer to catch up.
Great for these types of students
Stout is a college that is great for all kinds of students. If you want to Study all the time, there are places that are so quiet you will feel loud breathing. If you want to spend a lot of time with friends there are hangouts all over town and campus for students under 21 or over 21. You should join the Stout community if you want to Get your career on track, enjoy your college life, meet new people, network, learn, and be prepared for life in the real world.

Danielle from Hastings, MN

a past student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Did learn a lot
The class sizes are pretty small, I typically had about 17 classmates in a typical class. The professors are incredibly nice and helpful! Since the community is a smaller one, students and professors are consistently working together. Study groups and tutors are in easy access.
Did enjoy being here
So much fun! The city of Menomonie is a lot of fun and the students at Stout are too. Stout has entertainment weekly that is really great like movies, comedians, bands, etc. The night life is fun and everything is in close walking distance! Also, the Eau Claire mall is only 30 minutes away for those who yearn for some shopping. :)
Bang for the buck
Stout is an accredited University of Wisconsin school. I believe that the professors there are very accredited as well. I learn alot in my first year. It is the education of a private school without the cost!
Tips for prospective students
Have an open mind for new things! Stout was a wonderful experience for me and I am so glad that I got the chance to go there. Work hard, play hard. ;)
Great for these types of students
This is a great school for students who like small communities and incredibly nice people! All of the professors and students at stout are so nice and welcoming. I've never met so many great people! Students who are involved with their schools will fit well with Stout seeing as they have many opportunities for getting involved. Menomonie is a very fun town! With all of the lakes near by there are many outdoor opportunities like their wonderful hiking trails, tubing down the red river, skiing on the lake, canoeing, etc. At Stout, walking is something you must enjoy! Everything is very close and most everything is in walking distance. It is very convenient! Especially for those classes that you need to get last minute tools for. As a student at Stout, I found that the most popular majors there are: fashion design, fashion merchandising, packaging, graphic design, dietetics, construction management, and hotel, restaurant, and tourism management. However these are only a dent in the amount of majors that Stout offers.

Amanda from Stevens Point, WI

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a first timer in my family to attend a four year college I was completely clueless as to what college was going to be like. I went to my classes and found them rather exciting except for maybe one or two which I ended up dropping anyway. I was terrified that it was going to be so far over my head I was never going to pass. But as I finished my first semester of college I learned a lot more about myself which built up my self confidence and changed my learning and studying habits.
Am enjoying being here
Stout's campus is the prettiest one I have ever seen. The tall pine trees really hold the snow nicely during the winter time and with me being the photographer that I am it really makes breath taking pictures. The professors are extremely willing to help out the students as well make learning truly a fun experience. Another thing I really think is a blessing is the fact that there are ash putter outers twenty five feet away from all campus buildings so for those who smoke can keep it away from the doors for those who don't smoke.
Bang for the buck
The campus is beautiful, the professors really care about your future, the price is lower than most colleges and the students are fair. However I'm convinced that the dorm rooms are smaller than average to which I gave this category a four star.
Tips for prospective students
STUDY,STUDY,STUDY! I know you will hear parents, grandparents and teachers preach about this but its true. I never had to truly study in high school and still got good grades however I got a real shock when I realized that my normal routine wasn't enough. Several times I had to stay up all night before a paper was due to even start and finish it! Also it is a good thing to socialize but don't let people run over you. Be open about your own views, beliefs and opinions even with your roommate, if it bothers you let them know.
Great for these types of students
I think Stout is a really artistic school, it has amazing Art majors as well as Construction and Buisness majors. If you have a creative side whether its with a brush, hammer or ideas, Stout is a great place for all creative and artistic minds.

Laura from Milton, WI

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
In a small town, with a huge nasty lake and a beautiful trail. Not too many students, so the teachers actually know who I am. Stout's ranking would probably end up with an eight, in my eyes.
Tips for prospective students
Talk to your teachers and they will not forget your face, which means more recommendations for the future!
Academic Rigor
You must know what you want to do with your life, or else you will end up taking a lot of pointless general education classes. Either explore your options and get a basic idea of what you want to do, or pick one thing and stick with it until you graduate. Good luck!
Dorm Life
The showers were a bit sketchy in South Hall, but everywhere else it was great! They had heaters to keep you warm during the winter (which you will want) and all the South campus dorms were right by the academic buildings!
Food and Dining
Loved it! I could not get enough of the food! I would make wraps, sandwiches, salads, and so much more! Also, the food was unlimited, so you could go back for more sides and deserts!
What to do for fun
I joined a lot of clubs, like rugby, Yeti Ultimate, Gamma Sigma SIgma and so much more! They have so many activieties to do if you are bored! If you have nothing to do on a Friday night, don't worry! There is a new FREE movie playing every Friday! It is the Life!
Great for these types of students
FASHION STUDENTS WANTED, so are business, and health students.
Clubs and Activities
They have everything! So many activities to pick from! I just wish they had a club dealing with Harry Potter, but maybe next year someone will start one!
Greek Life
JOIN IT! You meet a lot of people who you may have never have considered even talking to! They also keep you involved in the community and are always there if you need a friend!
Campus Safety
They make it so anyone can just walk into any of the halls until 11:00pm which is a little creepy, but we have our very own campus policy who are very friendly and understanding if you are in trouble for drinking or if someone is harassing you!

Samantha from Mosinee, WI

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Am I learning a lot? Definitely! Stout really puts a good perspective on things. Not only have I learned about my future career but I've also learned a lot about life and friendships here. The faculty really push students to do their best and be their best. I am currently an Interior Design major and I LOVE it. My freshman year was pretty brutal because there were a lot of projects all at once. At the time I was saying to myself, Really?! This is a lot of work, but it gave me a challenge and I battled through it. Some day I may have several projects at one time again, but thanks to Stout, I am prepared and confident about those projects. The one thing that I really like about stout is that it is very hands on. I'm learning/doing things that I would do normally out in the work field.
Am enjoying being here
I really do love it here. I made some really great friends and really enjoy the activities here. During the school year, ya you have homework, but there is always something to do when you DO get some free time. Things like concerts, comedy shows, sports games, intramural sports, etc! The past two years, Stout had artists such as Ingrid Michealson, Quietdrive, and Motion City Soundtrack. I have some really great memories from those shows! You'll never be bored.
Bang for the buck
One special thing about Stout is that they provide you with a laptop...yep...a laptop. They are up to date with the latest software and they upgrade you every two years! This was a HUGE financial help. Most places you have to pay that extra money in order to have a computer for your work, but not here! Also there is free computer help so when you're computer is being mean you can take it to get fixed. I don't know about some people, but I think this is a pretty good deal.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be shy! Get out there and meet people right away. Stout has so many great students. I've met so many fun people. But of course you also need to do that thing that no one ever wants to do...lock yourself in your room and STUDY! People are not exaggerating when they say study study study! The teachers here want you to succeed. It's up to you to prove to them that you are ready and can take any curve ball they give you. There were a few times when I thought that I was ready for a test and when I got there, the test was a little bit harder than I had expected...so the trick? STUDY!
Great for these types of students
One thing that I never thought I would do is join a sorority. Don't turn away so quickly. My roommate and I wanted to get more involved and give back to the community. We found our answer in one of the great sororities on campus. These groups go the extra mile to take you to the next level in the college experience. You meet fun, loving people that most likely joined the fraternity/sorority for the same reasons that you may be interested in one! I've really excelled my college experience and made some great lifelong friends. If you're looking for to meet some people and be involved in something more, a sorority/fraternity may be for you!

Nicole from MN

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This school has very knowledgeable and helpful professors. It has been a huge help to me in order to understand the material for the classes. By actually asking the professor questions you have can make a world of difference. I have learned a lot here and I have only been attending for one semester.
The class sizes are small and intimate. Although the lectures may seem bigger than most would like, the professor doesnt forget that you are there and they try to interact with you as much as possible as if you were taking the class in a smaller size.
I gave this five stars because I believe that the staff here really try to teach you as well as possible, they know the reason why you are taking the course, weather it be just a general or a major specific course they try to help you as much as you need it. I have learned much during my short time here at Stout.
Am enjoying being here
I can't give this category all five stars because I am not exactly pleased with the way that Stout handles extra-curricular activities. During the first few weeks it was fun because everyone kind of had their days planned out and there was so much do to! And now since the semester has been rolling on, the activities for the majority of students has been leveled out and all that is left to do is go out and party. Which I choose not to do so I do not enjoy it as much as I would like to.
I have started to attend things such as Campus Crusade every Thursday and I enjoy myself there. They have shown me that you don't have to go out all the time to have a good time. They have provided many things to do without going to a house party.
There are many things for students to do during the course of the week, which I choose to do some of them if I'm not doing homework, but on the weekends not much is provided. This is why I have only given this category three stars.
Bang for the buck
College isn't free. But, Stout seems to be worth the money you pay for it. Because it is a state college your not paying a huge amount of money per credit, but it gets pretty spendy.
You only pay per credit for tuition, and housing can get kind of expensive, but it seems somewhat worth it.
Now as far as bang for your buck, I think its pretty worth it to pay what we do for credits, the teachers are very helpful and they know that your paying to take their class so they do their best to make it worth your while.
Meal plans can get very expensive fast, so be careful what you choose. You do get a microwave and a refrigerator in your dorm room so you can have food in there if you choose not to eat at the commons. Speaking of the commons, this is where you would eat most if not all of your meals, this food is the least expensive on campus and its mostly worth what you pay for. Some of it tastes good and some of it doesn't, just depending on what you like personally, so be careful when choosing your meal plan.
Overall Stout is worth the bang for the buck.
Tips for prospective students
For any student looking to further their education after High School, trying to choose a college can be difficult. I would just say to make sure you love the school your going to attend, don't pay much attention to how much you'll be paying for it because scholarships and grants are always available. Cost can be a huge thing for a lot of people, but for as much as it costs your getting all you pay for. Just remember to keep that in mind.
Also, I hope that you keep in mind that you should love what you do. And don't go to a college to be with your friends from High School, you will always be able to meet new friends. Do things for yourself and do things because you want to, not because of anyone else telling you what to do.
Make sure when you do choose and attend a college, do not slack off. Some students seem to think that college is like High School. It's not. You have to do your work and make sure its done correctly and on time. If you do this you will be just fine.
And finally, just have confidence in yourself and you will do well.
Great for these types of students
University of Wisconsin - Stout is great for students who learn well in a hands on classroom. Stout takes pride in its ability to teach students the way they do. And it really does work. Stout is great for students who take pride in what they do. Whether you know what you want to do with the rest of your life or even if you don't, Stout is there to help you figure out what you want to do. And if you know what you want to do they are there to help you learn and develop quickly within the field.
Stout is great for any student.

Effie from Woodbury, MN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
It is a nice University to be in. The Professors are very good. And the people are great.
Tips for prospective students
Go to every class because attendance matters even if you don't think it does.
Ask for help when you need it. There are plenty of on campus resources to help you.
Academic Rigor
The courses are engaging and hands on. It's a great way to gain experience in what you want to do.
Dorm Life
Find people on your floor that you can connect with! The dorms are a nice place to live in and once you have friends on the floor it can be really fun.
Food and Dining
Food at the commons is okay and the food at the MSC is great but expensive.
What to do for fun
There isn't much to do around the community, but there are clubs that hold fun on campus events and there are free movies that play every Friday.

Hannah from Okeana, OH

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
It is a great and welcoming community. The university really tries to help students become involved in activities around campus which they have plenty of. The academics are focused on being hands on and giving plenty of opportunity for real life experiences.
Tips for prospective students
If you come to Stout then make sure to live in the dorms for your first year. It helps you get to know at least 30 people who live on your floor. Try to participate religiously in one club that you are interested in. Attend as much as you can in order to get the full college experience.
Academic Rigor
Art Majors here are tough but all of the hard work seems to pay off in the end. As for other majors I don't have much knowledge but most people seem to be able to manage their work load.
Dorm Life
The RA's here are really good about being there to help and support students. There are random nights where my dorm floor goes to the Commons to eat dinner and on holidays we throw parties in the Hall's basement.
Food and Dining
It's not like meals back home but you can't complain too much. They have vegan meals that are available upon request and have a few nights each year that have a themed meal. The last themed meal we had was Sports Night where we had unlimited wings and pizza as well as the normal sides and such.
What to do for fun
There are an endless amount of parties here on the weekends. Menomonie has many restaurants that are within walking distance (as far as a college student goes) and a theater which is a little further down the road. If you're in the dorms you can check out sports equipment, ping pong paddles, pool table sticks and movies from the front desk. You can also rent cooking pots and pans, anything you would need to cook or bake, and make some fun goodies with your friends.
Bang for the buck
Stout is a fairly cheap University especially with all of the financial aids and scholarship opportunities. Also, Stout has a 97% job placement rate within 6 months after graduation in which those jobs make a fair amount of money.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There is a very unhealthy obsession with squirrels here... there has been chatter about changing our mascot from the Blue Devils to the Stout Squirrels.

In the Memorial Student Center there is a triangular shaped study nook with pillows and color changing lights that is a popular place to study.
Clubs and Activities
There is no shortage of clubs here on campus but if there isn't one you are interested in then it is easy to start one up all on your own.

Sophmore @ Stout

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Great school if you're looking for smaller campus. Laptop program is awesome and so is textbook rental program - no need to search for & buy your books, just check out and return to library when class is done! Professors are great to work with if you need extra help.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely do a tour so you get the feel for the school. They also have lots of activities going on weekly to keep you involved and also have some fun while not studying.
Academic Rigor
I am in the hardest computer program they offer so my classes are very challenging which is good I think. They have class plans worked out to keep you on track for a 4 year graduation time frame. They also have a new math/science building with latest technology available to us.
Dorm Life
Your typical dorm settings I think. No problems for me, got a good roommate.
Food and Dining
3 dining plans to choose from with a wide variety of choices. Also just remodeled the Commins area (where you go to eat) and is very modern looking.
What to do for fun
Wide variety....movie nights, sports activities, state park nearby, 3 frisbee golf courses, lake in town, walking distance to downtown area - shops, movie theater, restaurants.
Bang for the buck
Great school - I really like. I also had a sibling graduate from Stout and find a job within a month. They have a high rating for this.
Clubs and Activities
Tons of groups to join - need more time in the day to join all I would like to!
Greek Life
Not involved but there are some on campus.
Campus Safety
Campus police always around if you need them, always feel safe here.

Annelise from Milwaukee, WI

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Stout's campus is amazing. The teachers are all willing to help you and they are all very relaxed and ask you to call them by their first name. Ammenities such as buildings and cafeteria are easily in reach for all students living on and off campus.
Am enjoying being here
The only downside to the school is that it is in the middle of nowhere. It's known as a very common party-school. If you don't party, there's not much else for you to do there. Very few student activities planned and the surronding city is very small. You really need a car to enjoy out-side entertainment
Bang for the buck
Stout is very well known for their hospitality program, they are probably one of the cheapest hospitality schools around, especially for instate students. Instate students get a great deal, less than 10k tuition and with room and board it's under 15k. Out of state is a little more pricey, but it is worth it.
Great for these types of students
Students who do not need a lot of outside entertainment, who enjoy a laidback enviornment. It's a very good school for hospitality students, fashion students, and