Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, TN, USA

Reviews

Carson-Newman University

Margaret from Dahlonega, GA

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning so much at Carson-Newman College. The professors are wonderful and really strive for excellence within their classrooms. They really care about their students and how well they perform in the classroom. They take the time to get to know their students on a more personal level and strive to help them in any way possible. They make themselves available when students have questions or don't understand something. I push myself to do well in my classes, but the professors also want that for their students. The small class size really helps with this because students can get that one on one time with the professors and it also helps keep students accountable for coming to class. They try to present the material in different and interesting ways so that the students learn the material. Carson-Newman is a liberal arts college, we have to take many different general education classes along with the classes for our major. And for the most part I have walked away from every class really learning a lot!!!
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love Carson-Newman!! It has been such a great experience and I am so happy to be here! I have made some really awesome friends and memories that I would not trade for anything. There might not be a whole lot to do on campus or in the tiny town of Jefferson City but you can always find something to do; whether that be a movie night, random rides around time jamming out to music or just studying outside. I love that I can walk around campus and recognize just about everyone who passes by. It makes college feel more like home. I love that there are so many ways to get involved on our campus. There is something for just about every single person and the more involved you are the more fun you can have. Carson-Newman is a great place to be and I am super thankful to be here!!!!
Bang for the buck
I does cost a lot to attend Carson-Newman College, but for the most part you get out of it what you put in. Education is at the top of the list and our faulty is awesome and we get a great education out of it! The buildings on campus all have historical meaning behind them, and the school is trying to preserve those values, but it's time to do some fixing up and renovating. Some of the building could just really use some work and maybe upgrading to more current standards would help. We all want to see the antique and history attributes stay on campus, but I think some of the money we spend should go towards fixing that up. Also, the food in our cafeteria is not the best in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm paying so much per meal to walk out still hungry. They do try to offer many options, but they cook things with weird combinations. It's not awful, but I wish it would improve some. Overall, I think that we do get what we pay for.
Tips for prospective students
Get your application in early so that you have time to review all your options, not to mention you get early enrollment which looks good on your part! Come up and take a campus tour, ask lots of questions, and even stop students walking to and from classes and ask their opinions of the college. If you know what your major will be really take the time to tour and ask questions within that department.
Once you get to Carson-Newman I would really suggest to get involved in as many things possible. This college does a great job at having a week dedicated to mixers and fun activities for freshmen to get to know each other. They are all really fun, and you get to meet SO many people!!! Stay involved after that, find organizations that you like and get involved in them. It's a great way to meet people and it's fun to be a part of something. There is literally some type of organization for everyone! We have many different campus ministries and they all work at being involved in your life. Also, make sure that you learn how to stay organized! It's hard adjusting to college life and the freedom that comes from not living at home anymore. You still have to stay on top of your classes because your professors aren't going to remind you of every little thing. I would suggest a calendar/planner or get updates of your schedule to your phone; whatever it takes to remember due dates! Finally, have fun!
Great for these types of students
Carson-Newman is a great school for all different types of students. If you like to be challenged academically, a small student body, and a Christian atmosphere that really makes learning somehow more positive then I would say that Carson-Newman is a good place for you! It is a great school that provides many opportunities to succeed both in and outside the classroom, it equips us as students to be prepared for the work force and real life.

Alex from Oak Ridge, TN

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors are ranked some of the best in the country. We are not a research-based school, which means we don't have the highest payrolled teachers but it also means that the teachers are here FOR THE STUDENTS! Two of my profs took pay cuts to come here and almost every one of my teachers has invited us, either as individuals, small groups, or our whole class to dinner out, or at their houses. I have even received 3 different invites from my college's president to have cookies and milk with him and his wife. My teacher's really do know their stuff as 98% of them have the highest degree that they can have in their field. But they aren't so brilliant that they set themselves apart from their students. They constantly change their methods and style of teaching to accommodate the varying students' needs. They have long office hours and even give you their personal and home phone numbers if you have questions or concerns on the weekends.
Am enjoying being here
The students I am around are the best I could ask for. There are so many types of people that I am sure anyone can find friends. I have grown so much in m y time here and college life is the bomb. The guys on my hall have become my best friends, the college offers many intramural (casual) sports and games to play each week and there are over 100 clubs and organizations for people to choose among their interests for involvement and fellowship.
Bang for the buck
Though the school is more expensive than public schools, it is far worth it. The adjective private on the affiliation of the school allows the teachers to teach everything they know and all of the possible answers to what is happening in life, not just a curriculum decided by a governmental council. I have never thought about regretting my decision to come here and I hope you make the same.
Tips for prospective students
Be cool with everything. Things are going to change a lot, and for the better. Though I love my parents very dearly, I am a strong advocate for students staying on the weekends instead of going home, especially freshman year. That is when people begin to meet friends that they keep throughout their time at college. I'm not saying that if you go home on the weekends that you won't make friends, it just makes it harder.
One other thing, do not underestimate studying for your classes. Your profs might teach you in a way that makes the material easy to understand, but the key to learning is to apply the concepts you learn to the rest of the subject later on in the semester.
Great for these types of students
If you are being assertive to look at schools here, you will fit right in at Carson-Newman. You will be the type of student to excel in their studies and be involved on campus, and will be the type of alumni the college would be proud of.

Kathryn from Kodak, TN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Carson-Newman's small class size give me the opportunity to have one on one conversations and help from my professors. If you don't get the concept the first time around, the professors don't mind if you ask questions during a lecture. In class we learn from the professors' real world experiences and examples.
Am enjoying being here
Carson-Newman offers many different on campus activities to include everyone. No matter what you like to do there is bound to be something for you. As a Christian school, you are encouraged to continue to develop your faith in all that you do. This school is a great place to learn who you are.
Bang for the buck
Yes, it is a little more expensive as a private college but you are paying for the small class size. The biggest undergraduate class that I know of has only about 50 people, maybe less. You begin to make friends from the very start.
Tips for prospective students
One tip for you prospective students would be to get involved. Join a group, intramural, or whatever appeals to you. Don't be afraid to get involved and meet lots of people. Just don't overwhelm yourself.
Great for these types of students
Carson-Newman is great for students who want small classes, who like giving back to the community, and who are willing to study hard while getting to know classmates. Carson-Newman is a great college for shy or outgoing people, but also for those who are in between those two extremes.

Anna from Abingdon, VA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning SO much here at Carson-Newman. The professors are my favorite part, and they make the classes so interesting and worthwhile. The professors are there for you in academics but also work with you when you are going through life experiences, and offer up constructive and encouraging advice and support. Not only do I love the professors and think they are perfect for a small christian environment, Students actually seem to see real life lessons through a lot of classes. Some of my favorite classes have been: Human Services, Liberal Arts (the infamous CN required LA), New Testament, and Social Problems. I learned so much about myself and about the world through these classes and professors.
Am enjoying being here
When I come back to the dorm after being away, I let out a sigh of relief, and when I go into a building, or walk around campus, or go to eat in the dining hall, there are tons of people that I know and love smiling at me and encouraging me. Even the people I don't know, the workers and maintenance staff and random people walking around are smiling and saying hello. It's been an amazing experience being part of campus and campus life, and living in the dorms with fellow sisters in Christ, and spending time with people off campus and on campus and growing up together.
Bang for the buck
It is definitely a lot of buck, but it is a lot more bang. The buildings are pretty old (but beautiful) and it doesn't always feel luxurious to walk into the dining hall instead of getting home cooked food, but the people here make up for it, and the programs to get involved are so extensive and so fit for many different types of people that it makes up for it. You can truly get a good college experience here, and remember every bit of it.
Tips for prospective students
My tips for prospective students are to GET INVOLVED right from day one! Do Eagle Strut, get involved in Howdy Hoot, and stay up late during orientation and one classes start and talk to people you don't know! If you are a brave one coming in alone (I was), then put yourself out of your comfort zone even more. Stretch yourself! It is so much easier than in high school, because everyone is trying to branch out and make new friends. Also, USE YOUR PLANNER! Planners are the only thing that will keep you up to date for academics and have a social life at the same time. My last tip is to get involved in a campus ministry. There are ministries for athletes, for more conservative people, for more liberal people, for people who want to do missions and go on trips, and just for people who want to get together and pray. GET INVOLVED!
Great for these types of students
Carson-Newman is great for many different types of students. It is good for students who like to have a lot of fun and be involved, without the norm college things (partying). There isn't a pick spilt into groups but there is a type of person for everyone, and different activities for every type. It is definitely a great place for students who love interacting with other people and love having professors care about them and be involved in their lives. It's also great for people seeking to grow spiritually and learn new things everyday about themselves, God, and other people.

Nicholas from Maryville, TN

accepted here and planning to attend soon
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Carson-Newman is an outstanding college where anyone can fulfill their dreams at. The staff is willing to give 110% to make sure each student reaches their potential and exceed his/her expectations. The future is becoming much brighter with Carson-Newman sending students into to the world to make a difference.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you are ready to study and work all the time. Your mind and heart must be prepared to learn what the staff teaches you. They are there to help you any single way they can, so do not hesitate to ask for help.
Academic Rigor
Carson-Newman takes great pride in their endeavors to teach young students all they need to know about the world. The academics are very strong and should not be taken lightly. Carson-Newman will push each student to rise above difficult challenges so they may prosper in the world.
Dorm Life
The dorms are absolutely excellent. The entire campus is extremely beautiful. The buildings have a rustic feel to them, the dorms are really nice, and above all, one gets to experience all of this nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains!
Food and Dining
The food is superb. Carson-Newman has a great cafeteria with great food. Carson-Newman is also settled very close to some great restaurants.
What to do for fun
Carson-Newman is a Christian college and they take pride in helping the community. One can serve the community by helping out with Habitat for Humanity, the Boys and Girls Club, and other community outreaches. Carson-Newman is also about an hour from bustling Knoxville, Tennessee and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Clubs and Activities
Carson-Newman offers the Bonner's Program where students can help out the community. Carson-Newman also takes pride in offering the most intramural sports in the area, such as frolf (frisbee golf), football, and tennis. There is always something to be apart of at Carson-Newman!
Campus Safety
The campus is not very big compared to other universities, so the campus safety, overall, is really good. The campus is nestled in a peaceful grove of trees. There has never been any big issue with campus safety.

Abigail from Greenville, SC

accepted here and planning to attend soon
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I am hoping to become a nurse. I've been impressed with the faculty and their attention to the students and desire to make them successful. That has been a major plus in making my decision. I believe that will make me a better student and learner.
Will enjoy being here
Yes, the campus is vey nice and has a great feel. There is a lot of fun things planned and the students seem very happy.
Bang for the buck
I'm not sure. It's expensive, but I'm working hard to figure out a way to pay for it.
Tips for prospective students
Research all of your options. It really helps making a better decision.
Great for these types of students
Those that like a smaller school and a Christian environment.

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Almost everyone you pass on campus is remarkably friendly and cheerful. The professors do an excellent job by caring for the well-being of the students and showing the passion they have for their field. While located in a small town, the campus is beautiful, especially in the fall, and very safe.
Tips for prospective students
Get all of your financial aid taken care of early as the financial aid department can become very overwhelmed and busy as deadlines approach.
Campus Safety
The small-town atmosphere and dedicated security staff make students feel very safe.

Joseph from Knoxville, TN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Carson-Newman is home. There is no other word for it. Everyone here is family.
Tips for prospective students
Get involved in campus groups and clubs. You get out of Carson-Newman what you put into it.
Academic Rigor
The professors here are top notch and spend one-on-one time with each student. The teachers actually care about you.
Dorm Life
Some of my best memories from my last couple of years have come from the dorms. Its a great place to meet friends and to stay connected on campus.
Food and Dining
Isn't all college dining just kind of average?
What to do for fun
You can go to the lake that is less than 5 minutes away.
There are also caves that can be explored close by.
The school is 20 minutes from both Knoxville and Pigeon Forge... aka Dollywood.
Bang for the buck
Yes, the school is kind of pricey... however there is no other school that cares and educates their students as well as Carson-Newman
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
HOWDY HOOT!!! Howdy Hoot is our annual dorm vs. dorm competitions. Winner gets a door prize.. (It's literally a door.. get it?)
Great for these types of students
Carson-Newman is great for students who want to be involved in their community and grow as a person. Not only do you grow mentally, you grow spiritually as well.
Clubs and Activities
Carson Newman has one of the best Intramural programs in the country. From Quidditch to Basketball.
Campus Safety
Our directory of security is a retired CIA agent... enough said.

Megan

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Carson-Newman is a fun, close knit, Christ centered school. It allows students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Carson Newman is simply an amazing school.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early.
Branch out from your normal group.
Try everything.
Academic Rigor
Some classes are hard and some are easy, but you'll leave each learning a lot more than you went in knowing.
Dorm Life
I thought I would HATE traditional style, but now that I've done it for a year I couldn't imagine anything else. Living on a hall with all your friends and getting to see them all the time is great.
Food and Dining
Cafeteria food is well cafeteria food.
What to do for fun
Intermurals, movie on the lawn, sporting events, Knoxville.

Joseph from Morristown, TN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I have found Carson Newman to have been a good learning institution that realizes you can make an impact outside of the classroom. Being one of the top community-service oriented schools in the nation reveals that CN believes in impacting the community it is located in for good. Carson Newman has given me a great opportunity to move into adulthood well educated and well rounded.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you choose a school based on more than just academics. Try to get an idea about the culture of the school and opportunities outside of the classroom.
Academic Rigor
Depending on the degree, some courses can be quite challenging, but professors are typically fair and understanding. If you put forth a good effort, teachers try to help you out.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is fun. Being able to hang out with other guys and play ping pong or just hang out is usually always an option.
Food and Dining
With the Eagles Nest Cafe and the cafeteria, there are not alot of choices, but you can usually find something good to eat.
What to do for fun
Nothing like hitting up the MSAC, which has a pool, 3 court gym area, and lounges to hang out.
Bang for the buck
Though expensive on its original price tag, most if not all students receive some type of financial aid. Carson Newman gives out a decent amount itself.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Operation Inasmuch is a really great event, where students volunteer to go help at different areas of the community for an afternoon. Its cool to see so many students gather around something that is not about themselves.
Great for these types of students
Students who like a small town college and enjoy hanging out on campus with friends.
Campus Safety
Jimmy Hodges is the man. Enough said.