Chats » Regular Action Admitted Student Chat, 2009
Sein - Trenton, NJ
Currently, I'm an undecided/biology major. However, I am interested in nutrition. Should I stay in biology or do you offer a nutrition major?
ND Admissions
Since we don’t offer a “nutrition” major, the biological sciences major would be a good place for you to start.
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
Have you heard about any students doing a double major in Biochemistry and Biomedical engineering? If so, how well did they do and is it typically not suggested?
ND Admissions
The College of Engineering offers a Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering major. Because of the overlap in courses in both biochemistry and biomedical engineering, there’s no need to double major between the two colleges (College of Science/College of Engineering).
Steven - Buffalo, NY
What happens if there are outstanding troubles between roommates, can they asked to be transferred?
ND Admissions
Steven, roommate problems are usually resolved by the resident assistant and other hall personnel.In extreme cases, there may be a transfer.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
I know ND doesnt accept dual-credit from high school, but will the grade I make in that class affect my gpa or keep me from still being accepted closer to the school year?
ND Admissions
Hi Mitchell- You should check with your guidance counselor about how that grade will impact your GPA. I advise that grade not be lower than a “C.”
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
What are summer semesters for? Can you use them to get ahead?
ND Admissions
Calvin, summer sessions are optional. They can be used to move ahead.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Are there any dorms that allow small pets?
ND Admissions
Pets really aren’t allowed in the dorms—though I think you can have fish under a certain size!
Anne - Hoffman estates, IL
My daughter is a National Merit Scholarhsip finalist, so she could be a candidate for the college sponsored merit scholarship from the list of schools that participate in the program. Since ND does not participate in the National Merit Scholarhip program, so is there any chance for the financial dept. to reconsider her financial aid package?
ND Admissions
Dear Anne,
Congratulations to your daughter on her selection as a National Merit Scholarship finalist! You must be very proud of her.
Reconsideration for financial aid is not related to her status as a National Merit finalist and would not be part of any re-evaluation. As we mentioned earlier in the chat, reconsideration is made if there are changes in family circumstances.
Casey - Hauppauge, NY
Does Notre Dame provide any volunteer activities for students who are interested in becoming a doctor?
ND Admissions
There are plenty of opportunities for students to volunteer in the South Bend community if they are interested in entering the medical field. Some students volunteer at the local clinic and/or hospital during the year, while others participate in Summer Service Learning Programs (both domestic and international) which give them hands-on experiences in the health professions.
Peter - Centerville, OH
I noticed that the First Year of Studies program offers an Intro to Philosophy course. I took a very similar course in high school, and I would like to take a different philosophy class at ND. Are there other philosophy courses available to first year students?
ND Admissions
Peter, Intro to Philosophy is the first course in a two course philosophy requirement and must be taken by all students. The second one is a free choice in philosophy.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
If I'm looking to eventually go on to Physical Therapy Graduate school, would I major in pre-med?
ND Admissions
Hi Mitchell,
You’re probably best off studying Science Pre-Professional, which will help you prepare for future graduate studies but also give you a well-rounded education.
Charley - Stony Brook, NY
I was just wondering, about what percentage of the students at ND are Catholic and what percentage of them are of other persuasions?
ND Admissions
Hi Charley- Thanks for joining us! Typically 83-85% of our enrolling first year class is Catholic.
Anna - Minnetonka, MN
I want to double-major in English and biology, and I have an interest in Pre-med also. I know that those majors would be in separate 'schools.' Is it difficult to double-major in separate schools?
ND Admissions
It is not impossible to do- in fact several students are involved in double majoring in separate schools. You may want to look into our “pre-professional” program, which puts you on track to take the MCAT and prepare you for med school. But you can do an ALPP (arts&letter pre professional) track which would allow you to major in English while taking all the science classes you are interested in! Definitely weigh your options and what you are interested in! You can find more info about that on the college of science website
Patrick - Park Ridge, IL
Is there any sort of sink in the dorm room or do you have to go down to the bathroom?
ND Admissions
Every room on campus has a sink available.
Christine - Chicago, IL
I'm just trying to figure out my budget for college. How much money would I need per week for personal expenses?
ND Admissions
Hi Christine,
This is a great question and really depends on what type of “lifestyle” you are accustomed to living. We include a $1000 personal expense budget in our average cost of attendance. This is based upon 30 weeks of school. The types of things students spend money on are going out to dinner off-campus, going to off-campus movies, attending dances, etc.
Shani - Reno, NV
What is the work load like? I know Notre Dame is very prestigious. Will I be a recluse? :)
ND Admissions
The workload varies according to many factors. A large factor is the College that the student chooses to enter. The other major factor is the drive to maintain a high GPA. Essentially what it boils down to is the individual student and their choice as to how much time they want to spend. There is a significant amount of work required in order to be a successful student here, and that is balance by extracurricular activities as well. The curriculum of each major has its difficult classes, and all of them require a strong commitment. Don’t worry though, students do find time to socialize and enjoy themselves.
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Is there any type of astronomy program or classes?
ND Admissions
Yes, Jessica, we have a number of astronomy classes. I took one course my senior year and loved it!
Chris - Littleton, CO
For the First Year of Studies...what is the earliest classes start? ...what is the latest class of the day (7pm?)
ND Admissions
Chris, the earliest classes for FYS student would be 8:30 on Monday, Weds., and Friday or 9:30 on Tuesday and Thursday.
Vishnu - Deland, FL
Hello Everyone,
Most of my questions have been answered by previous chat questions and answers. Thank you. The only questions I still have are:
1) How many undergraduate students are non-catholic? Non-religious?
2) What is the satisfaction rate of African-American students attending ND? Are the different races pretty integrated or do they tend to keep separate in social settings?
3) I have received the university scholarship and a provost’s scholarship. According to my financial aid letter, the provost scholarship is subject to change depending upon my financial need as determined by FAFSA and CSS each year. What about the university scholarship? Is this fixed for all 4 years? Also, does the subsidized loan value change from year to year?
Thank you very much and good luck answering all our strange and not-so-strange questions.
ND Admissions
Vishnu – big questions! 15% of our student body is non-Catholic. In terms of non-religious overall, I don’t know that we keep that stat. We have students that tell us they are Catholic or Hindu or Jewish but don’t really practice so it’s really up to each individual student. I’m Asian-American myself, but my African-American friends generally very much enjoyed their experience at Notre Dame. I think everybody, no matter their ethnicity, beliefs or hobbies, can find a place at Notre Dame and enjoy their experience immensely. As for your financial aid questions – all of your scholarship money is dependent on your family’s demonstrated need and is reevaluated each year. The subsidized loan can also change each year and you can learn more about it here: http://www.nd.edu/~finaid/undergraduate/loans/.
Charley - Stony Brook, NY
I am visiting ND this coming weekend (Saturday), Would it still be possible for me to see the dormitories and dining halls?
ND Admissions
Hi Charley,
If you want to stop by the admissions office on the second floor of the Main Building on Friday or Saturday before 11:30 am, you can pick up some free passes to eat in the dining hall. Our office doesn’t coordinate any overnight visits on Friday or Saturday nights, however. But I bet you’ll find most Notre Dame students are friendly and if you’re up for exploring a dorm on your own a little bit you could probably see a dorm room or two while you’re here.
John - Fairmont, WV
Are there any special requirements for getting accepted into the Mendoza School of Business and how competitive is it?
ND Admissions
Hi John- There are no such special requirements- after your first year at Notre Dame, you can choose to enter the Mendoza College of Business.
Ramon - Tegucigalpa, HON
Can we pay our tuition with Visa?
ND Admissions
Hi Ramon,
The Office of Student Accounts does not currently accept payments via credit card. For more information on payment methods, please visit our website at http://www.nd.edu/~stdacct/general/payment_credits.shtml.
Stephanie - New Rochelle, NY
Was just wondering if there are any culinary classes offered?
ND Admissions
There are courses offered that relate the culinary arts to other fields such as literature or anthropology. However, we do not have culinary classes to prepare students for the culinary arts. There are some classes offered a few times a semester at the dining halls that students like to take for fun!
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Are students required to attend a summer semester?
ND Admissions
Marcos, there is no requirement to attend a summer session at ND.
Julia - Bakersfield, CA
So we can apply for a certain hall? I though it was random, or is that just for roommates?
ND Admissions
No, you are randomly assigned to a residence hall as well as a roommate!
Joowon - Shanghai,
How hard are the math courses? How do I know which math course I should enroll into?
ND Admissions
Joowon, you will be assigned to a math course that is appropriate for your intended major. Most of our students believe MATH 10560 (Calculus II) or MATH 10850-860 (Honors Calculus I and II) are the most difficult first year math courses.
Sein - Trenton, NJ
What are the processes of getting internships like?
ND Admissions
Hi Sein,
Your first stop in seeking out internships should be the Career Center which provides a variety of services for free such as career counselor, a resume critique and a sample interview. They also coordinate five different career and internship fairs held on campus each year and numerous other events. Also learn more about where students have interned in the past .
Rachel - Nashville, TN
Can you give me more information on the ACE program? I am interested in becoming a teacher, but I know ND doesn't offer an undergrad degree in education. Also, I have heard that ND pays for your master's degree through the ACE program, is this true?
ND Admissions
I’m so glad to hear that you are interested in ACE! The program is a two year service/teaching program that sends students to 32 different cities, located mostly on the coasts and in the South. During the summers, ACE teachers live on campus and take classes in preparation for a Masters in Education. During the school year, teachers live in community and serve as a full-time teacher in one of the elementary, middle, or high schools in the area. Although they are not paid a full teacher’s salary, they receive a stipend and are awarded their M.Ed after completing the full two years. See their website for more information.
Students interested in pursuing professional certification as teachers during their undergraduate studies may do so through our cooperative relationship with St. Mary’s College. Contact the Undergraduate Office of the College of Arts and Letters for more information.
Rachel - Harrington Park, NJ
How safe is the area around Notre Dame, in particular South Bend?
ND Admissions
The local area is generally safe, but we can’t guarantee anything; we always encourage our students to use good common sense when they are “out and about.” The development of Eddy Street Commons, a retail and housing complex just south of campus will be a nice addition to the neighborhood.
Shani - Reno, NV
How big does Catholicism play a part at the University? I'm not Catholic but Christian and I'm wondering if I'll feel...left out?
ND Admissions
Catholicism is one of the identifying features of Notre Dame, and is very important to the core identity of the university. However, this is not to say that there is a strong obligation to be Catholic. Even though most students here are Catholic, many are not necessarily active in their religion. So don’t worry about feeling left out; your peers, instructors, etc. will not pressure you to convert or anything. Also, there are ways to practice your faith actively, including rides facilitated by the Campus Ministry to churches off campus.
Christine - Chicago, IL
What do students typically wear to class? What are common pieces of clothing among girls?
ND Admissions
Students typically dress very casually for class. I think that most students typically wear jeans. My advice would be to wear whatever you are comfortable in. Some girls wear sundresses and skirts a lot, some wear shorts, some jeans, some sweatpants. It really depends on what you prefer! There is not really a standard dress for everyone- it is definitely personal preference!
Jonne Santoli - Grain Valley, Mo
If a student has taken math and science college university classes and will be coming in with an associates in math and science...I think he should major in something else. I don't want him taking AP tests for college credits from a university. What would you say your top 4 or 5 majors are that are not scince related. If he went to another school they will take all 60 credits... so it is hard to lose all that hard work.. he has been awarded a Notre Dame scholar.. but maybe a different major would be a way to make both count.
ND Admissions
Jonne, ND is not going accept all of those credits, unless student applies as a transfer
Jonne, an associates degree in math and science is a great accomplishment, but when taken during the high school years, most of those credits will not be transferable to ND, even with a non-science major. Engineering, business, architecture and a number of liberals arts programs would be good alternatives.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Does ND give mini fridges or do you have to bring your own?
ND Admissions
If you want to have a mini fridge in your room you have to bring your own
Peter - Little Rock, AR
Does ND allow admitted students to deffer admissions for a year?
ND Admissions
Hi Peter- We do allow such postponements (for one year); you can make your request in writing and we typically will approve it! Know that it does not permit you to enroll in college fulltime during that year.
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
I heard that ND doesn't have a medical school. What do most students do then if they don't have the ability to go back to ND for Graduate school? Do they just all have to leave ND? =(
ND Admissions
Calvin, we have many students that end up getting two degrees from ND. Some even do three here! You could always think about working for ND after you graduate – that’s what I did and have loved every minute of it. GO IRISH!
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
I am very interested in ND's communtiy service opportunities and social justice campaigns, especially on the global level. What international trips and projects have ND groups participated in in the past? Is participation in these activities competitive or are most/all interested and eligible students usually allowed to participate?
ND Admissions
For the bigger projects, including the international ones, there is typically an application process that I believe is pretty competitive. Community Service involvement is very high at Notre Dame (about 80% of all undergrads involved). There are so many projects that go on, you will definitely be able to get involved in some sort of capacity! You will be able to find a lot more information at the Center for Social Concerns website: http://centerforsocialconcerns.nd.edu/
Shani - Reno, NV
How is it living with all girls or all boys in the dorms?
ND Admissions
Living in a single-sex dorm has its benefits, and on the whole, for a student, does not prohibit the social life as much as it might seem. The exact reason for this structure is to enforce an adherence to Catholic doctrine. However, there is also the benefit that dorms are able to settle down at a certain point in the night, which helps students to live peacefully and have an environment conducive to being a student. There are spaces in each dorm and around campus that serve as 24-hour spaces where students can meet others of the opposite sex.
Chuck - Stony Brook, NY
What banks (Citibank, Chase, etc) are in the area near ND where students can conveniently make withdraws and deposits?
ND Admissions
The Notre Dame Federal Credit Union is actually ON campus, but surrounding campus are a number of major banks and other financial institutions. For most students, it’s easiest to establish an account at NDFCU.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
What is the best hall for guys, and when do you apply for housing?
ND Admissions
Mitchell, I personally think Carroll Hall is the best dorm on campus. That’s mostly due to the fact that I lived there! Most of our students feel that the dorm they live in is the best – there’s just that much hall spirit. You apply for housing in May. You will get a letter about it.
Everistus - Abuja, Nigeria
Regarding the payment of the deposit fee, can I tell a relative of mine that resides in the US to pay it for me and then attach it to my enrollment card? And if so, who do I address the check to and is anything else needed to show that I'm the one she is paying for?
Thanks.
ND Admissions
Hi Everistus,
As long as it is clear that the check is YOUR deposit, that should be fine! The check should be made out to “University of Notre Dame”
Shani - Reno, NV
Are there a lot of opportunites for students to become involved in outreach programs and community service?
ND Admissions
YES! Around 80% of the undergraduate student body is involved in some type of community service at Notre Dame. You can get involved in whatever sort of capacity you want- whether it be day long programs, service within South Bend, or spending your fall or spring break traveling for service. Some people even find summer long service projects. You will find all the information at the Center for Social Concerns website which is http://centerforsocialconcerns.nd.edu/
Sein - Trenton, NJ
Currently, I'm an undecided/biology major. However, I am interested in nutrition. Should I stay in biology or do you offer a nutrition major?
ND Admissions
Since we don’t offer a “nutrition” major, the biological sciences major would be a good place for you to start.
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
Have you heard about any students doing a double major in Biochemistry and Biomedical engineering? If so, how well did they do and is it typically not suggested?
ND Admissions
The College of Engineering offers a Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering major. Because of the overlap in courses in both biochemistry and biomedical engineering, there’s no need to double major between the two colleges (College of Science/College of Engineering).
Steven - Buffalo, NY
What happens if there are outstanding troubles between roommates, can they asked to be transferred?
ND Admissions
Steven, roommate problems are usually resolved by the resident assistant and other hall personnel.In extreme cases, there may be a transfer.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
I know ND doesnt accept dual-credit from high school, but will the grade I make in that class affect my gpa or keep me from still being accepted closer to the school year?
ND Admissions
Hi Mitchell- You should check with your guidance counselor about how that grade will impact your GPA. I advise that grade not be lower than a “C.”
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
What are summer semesters for? Can you use them to get ahead?
ND Admissions
Calvin, summer sessions are optional. They can be used to move ahead.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Are there any dorms that allow small pets?
ND Admissions
Pets really aren’t allowed in the dorms—though I think you can have fish under a certain size!
Anne - Hoffman estates, IL
My daughter is a National Merit Scholarhsip finalist, so she could be a candidate for the college sponsored merit scholarship from the list of schools that participate in the program. Since ND does not participate in the National Merit Scholarhip program, so is there any chance for the financial dept. to reconsider her financial aid package?
ND Admissions
Dear Anne,
Congratulations to your daughter on her selection as a National Merit Scholarship finalist! You must be very proud of her.
Reconsideration for financial aid is not related to her status as a National Merit finalist and would not be part of any re-evaluation. As we mentioned earlier in the chat, reconsideration is made if there are changes in family circumstances.
Casey - Hauppauge, NY
Does Notre Dame provide any volunteer activities for students who are interested in becoming a doctor?
ND Admissions
There are plenty of opportunities for students to volunteer in the South Bend community if they are interested in entering the medical field. Some students volunteer at the local clinic and/or hospital during the year, while others participate in Summer Service Learning Programs (both domestic and international) which give them hands-on experiences in the health professions.
Peter - Centerville, OH
I noticed that the First Year of Studies program offers an Intro to Philosophy course. I took a very similar course in high school, and I would like to take a different philosophy class at ND. Are there other philosophy courses available to first year students?
ND Admissions
Peter, Intro to Philosophy is the first course in a two course philosophy requirement and must be taken by all students. The second one is a free choice in philosophy.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
If I'm looking to eventually go on to Physical Therapy Graduate school, would I major in pre-med?
ND Admissions
Hi Mitchell,
You’re probably best off studying Science Pre-Professional, which will help you prepare for future graduate studies but also give you a well-rounded education.
Charley - Stony Brook, NY
I was just wondering, about what percentage of the students at ND are Catholic and what percentage of them are of other persuasions?
ND Admissions
Hi Charley- Thanks for joining us! Typically 83-85% of our enrolling first year class is Catholic.
Anna - Minnetonka, MN
I want to double-major in English and biology, and I have an interest in Pre-med also. I know that those majors would be in separate 'schools.' Is it difficult to double-major in separate schools?
ND Admissions
It is not impossible to do- in fact several students are involved in double majoring in separate schools. You may want to look into our “pre-professional” program, which puts you on track to take the MCAT and prepare you for med school. But you can do an ALPP (arts&letter pre professional) track which would allow you to major in English while taking all the science classes you are interested in! Definitely weigh your options and what you are interested in! You can find more info about that on the college of science website
Patrick - Park Ridge, IL
Is there any sort of sink in the dorm room or do you have to go down to the bathroom?
ND Admissions
Every room on campus has a sink available.
Christine - Chicago, IL
I'm just trying to figure out my budget for college. How much money would I need per week for personal expenses?
ND Admissions
Hi Christine,
This is a great question and really depends on what type of “lifestyle” you are accustomed to living. We include a $1000 personal expense budget in our average cost of attendance. This is based upon 30 weeks of school. The types of things students spend money on are going out to dinner off-campus, going to off-campus movies, attending dances, etc.
Shani - Reno, NV
What is the work load like? I know Notre Dame is very prestigious. Will I be a recluse? :)
ND Admissions
The workload varies according to many factors. A large factor is the College that the student chooses to enter. The other major factor is the drive to maintain a high GPA. Essentially what it boils down to is the individual student and their choice as to how much time they want to spend. There is a significant amount of work required in order to be a successful student here, and that is balance by extracurricular activities as well. The curriculum of each major has its difficult classes, and all of them require a strong commitment. Don’t worry though, students do find time to socialize and enjoy themselves.
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Is there any type of astronomy program or classes?
ND Admissions
Yes, Jessica, we have a number of astronomy classes. I took one course my senior year and loved it!
Chris - Littleton, CO
For the First Year of Studies...what is the earliest classes start? ...what is the latest class of the day (7pm?)
ND Admissions
Chris, the earliest classes for FYS student would be 8:30 on Monday, Weds., and Friday or 9:30 on Tuesday and Thursday.
Vishnu - Deland, FL
Hello Everyone, Most of my questions have been answered by previous chat questions and answers. Thank you. The only questions I still have are: 1) How many undergraduate students are non-catholic? Non-religious? 2) What is the satisfaction rate of African-American students attending ND? Are the different races pretty integrated or do they tend to keep separate in social settings? 3) I have received the university scholarship and a provost’s scholarship. According to my financial aid letter, the provost scholarship is subject to change depending upon my financial need as determined by FAFSA and CSS each year. What about the university scholarship? Is this fixed for all 4 years? Also, does the subsidized loan value change from year to year? Thank you very much and good luck answering all our strange and not-so-strange questions.
ND Admissions
Vishnu – big questions! 15% of our student body is non-Catholic. In terms of non-religious overall, I don’t know that we keep that stat. We have students that tell us they are Catholic or Hindu or Jewish but don’t really practice so it’s really up to each individual student. I’m Asian-American myself, but my African-American friends generally very much enjoyed their experience at Notre Dame. I think everybody, no matter their ethnicity, beliefs or hobbies, can find a place at Notre Dame and enjoy their experience immensely. As for your financial aid questions – all of your scholarship money is dependent on your family’s demonstrated need and is reevaluated each year. The subsidized loan can also change each year and you can learn more about it here: http://www.nd.edu/~finaid/undergraduate/loans/.
Charley - Stony Brook, NY
I am visiting ND this coming weekend (Saturday), Would it still be possible for me to see the dormitories and dining halls?
ND Admissions
Hi Charley,
If you want to stop by the admissions office on the second floor of the Main Building on Friday or Saturday before 11:30 am, you can pick up some free passes to eat in the dining hall. Our office doesn’t coordinate any overnight visits on Friday or Saturday nights, however. But I bet you’ll find most Notre Dame students are friendly and if you’re up for exploring a dorm on your own a little bit you could probably see a dorm room or two while you’re here.
John - Fairmont, WV
Are there any special requirements for getting accepted into the Mendoza School of Business and how competitive is it?
ND Admissions
Hi John- There are no such special requirements- after your first year at Notre Dame, you can choose to enter the Mendoza College of Business.
Ramon - Tegucigalpa, HON
Can we pay our tuition with Visa?
ND Admissions
Hi Ramon,
The Office of Student Accounts does not currently accept payments via credit card. For more information on payment methods, please visit our website at http://www.nd.edu/~stdacct/general/payment_credits.shtml.
Stephanie - New Rochelle, NY
Was just wondering if there are any culinary classes offered?
ND Admissions
There are courses offered that relate the culinary arts to other fields such as literature or anthropology. However, we do not have culinary classes to prepare students for the culinary arts. There are some classes offered a few times a semester at the dining halls that students like to take for fun!
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Are students required to attend a summer semester?
ND Admissions
Marcos, there is no requirement to attend a summer session at ND.
Julia - Bakersfield, CA
So we can apply for a certain hall? I though it was random, or is that just for roommates?
ND Admissions
No, you are randomly assigned to a residence hall as well as a roommate!
Joowon - Shanghai,
How hard are the math courses? How do I know which math course I should enroll into?
ND Admissions
Joowon, you will be assigned to a math course that is appropriate for your intended major. Most of our students believe MATH 10560 (Calculus II) or MATH 10850-860 (Honors Calculus I and II) are the most difficult first year math courses.
Sein - Trenton, NJ
What are the processes of getting internships like?
ND Admissions
Hi Sein,
Your first stop in seeking out internships should be the Career Center which provides a variety of services for free such as career counselor, a resume critique and a sample interview. They also coordinate five different career and internship fairs held on campus each year and numerous other events. Also learn more about where students have interned in the past .
Rachel - Nashville, TN
Can you give me more information on the ACE program? I am interested in becoming a teacher, but I know ND doesn't offer an undergrad degree in education. Also, I have heard that ND pays for your master's degree through the ACE program, is this true?
ND Admissions
I’m so glad to hear that you are interested in ACE! The program is a two year service/teaching program that sends students to 32 different cities, located mostly on the coasts and in the South. During the summers, ACE teachers live on campus and take classes in preparation for a Masters in Education. During the school year, teachers live in community and serve as a full-time teacher in one of the elementary, middle, or high schools in the area. Although they are not paid a full teacher’s salary, they receive a stipend and are awarded their M.Ed after completing the full two years. See their website for more information.
Students interested in pursuing professional certification as teachers during their undergraduate studies may do so through our cooperative relationship with St. Mary’s College. Contact the Undergraduate Office of the College of Arts and Letters for more information.
Rachel - Harrington Park, NJ
How safe is the area around Notre Dame, in particular South Bend?
ND Admissions
The local area is generally safe, but we can’t guarantee anything; we always encourage our students to use good common sense when they are “out and about.” The development of Eddy Street Commons, a retail and housing complex just south of campus will be a nice addition to the neighborhood.
Shani - Reno, NV
How big does Catholicism play a part at the University? I'm not Catholic but Christian and I'm wondering if I'll feel...left out?
ND Admissions
Catholicism is one of the identifying features of Notre Dame, and is very important to the core identity of the university. However, this is not to say that there is a strong obligation to be Catholic. Even though most students here are Catholic, many are not necessarily active in their religion. So don’t worry about feeling left out; your peers, instructors, etc. will not pressure you to convert or anything. Also, there are ways to practice your faith actively, including rides facilitated by the Campus Ministry to churches off campus.
Christine - Chicago, IL
What do students typically wear to class? What are common pieces of clothing among girls?
ND Admissions
Students typically dress very casually for class. I think that most students typically wear jeans. My advice would be to wear whatever you are comfortable in. Some girls wear sundresses and skirts a lot, some wear shorts, some jeans, some sweatpants. It really depends on what you prefer! There is not really a standard dress for everyone- it is definitely personal preference!
Jonne Santoli - Grain Valley, Mo
If a student has taken math and science college university classes and will be coming in with an associates in math and science...I think he should major in something else. I don't want him taking AP tests for college credits from a university. What would you say your top 4 or 5 majors are that are not scince related. If he went to another school they will take all 60 credits... so it is hard to lose all that hard work.. he has been awarded a Notre Dame scholar.. but maybe a different major would be a way to make both count.
ND Admissions
Jonne, ND is not going accept all of those credits, unless student applies as a transfer
Jonne, an associates degree in math and science is a great accomplishment, but when taken during the high school years, most of those credits will not be transferable to ND, even with a non-science major. Engineering, business, architecture and a number of liberals arts programs would be good alternatives.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Does ND give mini fridges or do you have to bring your own?
ND Admissions
If you want to have a mini fridge in your room you have to bring your own
Peter - Little Rock, AR
Does ND allow admitted students to deffer admissions for a year?
ND Admissions
Hi Peter- We do allow such postponements (for one year); you can make your request in writing and we typically will approve it! Know that it does not permit you to enroll in college fulltime during that year.
Calvin - Murphy, Tx
I heard that ND doesn't have a medical school. What do most students do then if they don't have the ability to go back to ND for Graduate school? Do they just all have to leave ND? =(
ND Admissions
Calvin, we have many students that end up getting two degrees from ND. Some even do three here! You could always think about working for ND after you graduate – that’s what I did and have loved every minute of it. GO IRISH!
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
I am very interested in ND's communtiy service opportunities and social justice campaigns, especially on the global level. What international trips and projects have ND groups participated in in the past? Is participation in these activities competitive or are most/all interested and eligible students usually allowed to participate?
ND Admissions
For the bigger projects, including the international ones, there is typically an application process that I believe is pretty competitive. Community Service involvement is very high at Notre Dame (about 80% of all undergrads involved). There are so many projects that go on, you will definitely be able to get involved in some sort of capacity! You will be able to find a lot more information at the Center for Social Concerns website: http://centerforsocialconcerns.nd.edu/
Shani - Reno, NV
How is it living with all girls or all boys in the dorms?
ND Admissions
Living in a single-sex dorm has its benefits, and on the whole, for a student, does not prohibit the social life as much as it might seem. The exact reason for this structure is to enforce an adherence to Catholic doctrine. However, there is also the benefit that dorms are able to settle down at a certain point in the night, which helps students to live peacefully and have an environment conducive to being a student. There are spaces in each dorm and around campus that serve as 24-hour spaces where students can meet others of the opposite sex.
Chuck - Stony Brook, NY
What banks (Citibank, Chase, etc) are in the area near ND where students can conveniently make withdraws and deposits?
ND Admissions
The Notre Dame Federal Credit Union is actually ON campus, but surrounding campus are a number of major banks and other financial institutions. For most students, it’s easiest to establish an account at NDFCU.
Mitchell - Waco, TX
What is the best hall for guys, and when do you apply for housing?
ND Admissions
Mitchell, I personally think Carroll Hall is the best dorm on campus. That’s mostly due to the fact that I lived there! Most of our students feel that the dorm they live in is the best – there’s just that much hall spirit. You apply for housing in May. You will get a letter about it.
Everistus - Abuja, Nigeria
Regarding the payment of the deposit fee, can I tell a relative of mine that resides in the US to pay it for me and then attach it to my enrollment card? And if so, who do I address the check to and is anything else needed to show that I'm the one she is paying for? Thanks.
ND Admissions
Hi Everistus,
As long as it is clear that the check is YOUR deposit, that should be fine! The check should be made out to “University of Notre Dame”
Shani - Reno, NV
Are there a lot of opportunites for students to become involved in outreach programs and community service?
ND Admissions
YES! Around 80% of the undergraduate student body is involved in some type of community service at Notre Dame. You can get involved in whatever sort of capacity you want- whether it be day long programs, service within South Bend, or spending your fall or spring break traveling for service. Some people even find summer long service projects. You will find all the information at the Center for Social Concerns website which is http://centerforsocialconcerns.nd.edu/
