Chats » Early Action Admitted Student Chat 2007/2008
Kevin - East Northport, NY
What's the social scene like? Lots of parties?
ND Admissions
The social scene is quite diverse. From the omnipresent Halo and/or Smash Bros. tournament to the cramped dorm party, there are many opportunities for students to socialize on campus. Student organizations often host events on campus throughout the year. There are also a number of off-campus parties and for those of legal age, there is a bar/club scene.
Andrew - Carmel, IN
Received the info regarding the submission of tax returns and W2s. How long after you receive would it take for notification of any award would be given. Main reason is that most universities want a response by May 1 and other that have offered scholarships want a response by April 1.
ND Admissions
Dear Andrew,
Financial aid award letters will begin being sent to students admitted in the early action program in mid-March and to regular action admitted students at the end of March.
Olivia - San Rafael, CA
I know I should probably "trust the process," but about housing...since the dorms are assigned randomly, have there been any horror stories--like one roommate wanting to stay up until 3am, while the other wants to go to bed at 9pm?
ND Admissions
Hi Olivia,
As with any university, I am sure that there are some people who absolutely cannot get along, however that being said, I have never personally heard such stories here. Though living in a dorm can be a big adjustment for some people, it does not take long to become used to living with another person (I’m an only child, I know!). Remember, everyone is in the same position as a freshman, so as far as I have seen and experienced, most people get along just fine with their roommates.
Leann - Carmel, IN
I was wondering what the average financial aid package from Notre Dame looks like, my parents are excited that I made it into Notre Dame, but they are not sure whether or not we'll be able to pay for it, since I have a sister already in college.
ND Admissions
Hi Leann -
As you probably know, all financial aid at Notre Dame is need-based. Therefore, it’s difficult to state what the “average” award consists of. That said, students with financial need can expect their financial aid awards to contain workstudy and loan components, as well as University gift if the student qualifies.
When determining a family’s demonstrated financial need, we take into account many factors. Among these is whether there are any other children in the family in college. So, you can be assured that we will take this into account.
Jay - Grosse Pointe, MI
What should we bring to college?
ND Admissions
Hi Jay,
Most college rooms will have a television, fridge, and then whatever game systems you and your roommate may decide you need/want. Typically one person buys the fridge and the other brings the tv. Also, once you get on campus you may decide you want a futon or couch in your room which can be easily and cheaply purchased during orientation weekend on campus.
In terms of miscellaneous items of what to bring, you may want to visit a store like Bed Bath and Beyond during the summer and they’ll have itemized lists of everything you could possibly ever need.
I advise not bringing too much, there are plenty of shopping locations around campus where you can get everything!
Hope this helps!
Connor - , NJ
If I'm going to have 25-30 AP credits, what classes do I start with as an incoming freshman?
ND Admissions
Connor, I’d really have to see what your AP credits are in and what you plan to study before I can answer this. Sometimes AP credit will get a student out of course and they can move on to other courses but not always. The advisors spend a lot of time working with students to see what AP credit they should use and what AP credit won’t work.
Eric - New Orleans, LA
What if our parents will not have their 2007 taxes ready before April 1st for Finanical Aid packages, especially with the current IRS confusion of deadlines/policies?
ND Admissions
Dear Eric,
The priority deadline for submitting the required financial aid applications is February 15. To meet this deadline we suggest you use estimated income information. Once the federal tax return is available it should be sent to our office. We will complete our review and prepare a financial aid package at that time. Our goal is to prepare a financial aid award for applicants prior to the May 1 applicant reply date.
Carly - Westford, MA
Do you know if Notre Dame offers any courses in sign language?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame offers an introductory course for sign language. In this course, students learn conversational skills in addition to studying Deaf culture.
Laura - Broadview Heights, OH
Hi,is there a specific visitation day for students admitted Early Action?
ND Admissions
Hi Laura,
You and your family are more than welcome to visit at any point in time, but there are some specific days that our office will host evening receptions. Please reference your admit packet for those dates.
Sharon - Fairfax, VA
Can engineering students study abroad in Innsbruck?
ND Admissions
The engineering program is one of the most structured on campus; while the department is very good about ensuring that students are able to fit in and take advantage of all of the opportunities they wish, it is more common for engineering students to study in London or Australia, where we have specific engineering facilities, than the other abroad programs.
Sarah - Chesapeake, VA
Has anybody studied abroad? Did you have a good experience?
ND Admissions
Hi Sarah. Over half of our students study abroad at some point. I studied in London during the fall of 2005, and it was one of the best parts of my college experience. You take classes while you are abroad, and a number of students will have the opportunity to work in an internship while they are in that country. We have programs throughout Europe, 2 in Australia, Asia, Africa, and South America.
Laura - Appleton, WI
When are we assigned a first year adviser?
ND Admissions
Hi, Laura. Your advisor will be assigned this summer and he or she will start reading your folder and working on your schedule this summer. You can call or write this summer to discuss things with your advisor if you would like. Some students who live close by even come by for a visit to talk with their advisor in person.
Hannah - Mililani, Hi
How do you get to the airport from Notre Dame and what do people do with their stuff at the end of the school year? Do they put it in storage facilities?
ND Admissions
Hi Hannah,
There is a regional airport in South Bend, Indiana, right next to Notre Dame (it’s a 10 minute cab ride or drive with a friend). If you’re flying into Chicago then there are scheduled busses that run very frequently from O’Hare or Midway to the Notre Dame campus, literally to the Notre Dame campus.
Many residence halls sponsor their own storage units by renting storage facilities and then charging students a discounted rate for storage, some have storage rooms in the basements of their buildings. Most just find a local friends house to put their stuff in or rent a storage closet for the summer, it’s not very expensive at all!
Hope this helps!
Scott - Defiance, OH
Recently, some of the Ivy League colleges have announced a dramatic change in their financial aid policies making more funds available to middle class students. Is Notre Dame planning to follow suit?
ND Admissions
Dear Scott,
Please see the answer we posted earlier in this chat regarding this issue.
Kathleen - Chesapeake, VA
Recently some private schools have changed their financial aid model to 10 percent of household income. Is ND contemplating such a change?
ND Admissions
Please see the answer we posted earlier in this chat regarding this issue.
Tommy - Pennington, NJ
What's the weather been like lately? Extremely cold or snowy?
ND Admissions
Hi Tommy,
Well, this is always the time of the year to expect cold and snow but we happened to have some unusual weather here in the last 24 hours. As we type it’s 10 degrees .
Mary - Chicago,
What should I bring with me to my new home..... microwave? frig?
ND Admissions
You’ll definitely want a fridge. I don’t think if you’ll need a microwave, and it might actually be the case that you can’t bring a microwave. You should get a welcome kit from your dorm during the summer that tells you all of that good stuff. If you’re really worried about popping popcorn and cooking those healthy choice dinners (or my favorite, RAMEN!), you’ll probably be able to use your dorm’s microwave (you’ll probably find it on the first floor or in the basement).
Jeff - Mokena, IL
I was accepted as a chemical engineering major and also am a Riley Scholar. I have received information from the Department of Engineering inviting me to the Engineering Open House February 7th and 8th, but I've also received letters mentioning a Riley Scholars weekend. When is it, is it for engineering majors, and should I come to both?
ND Admissions
Students who are interested in Engineering are invited to attend the Engineering-only weekends, hosted by the Engineering Department. The Reilly Weekends will not have programming for Engineers this year. It’s a bit confusing, but either way you’ll be able come out and get a good feel for campus!
Michelle - Austin, TX
Are there job oppertunities on campus even if you don't qualify for the work-study program?
ND Admissions
Hi Michelle,
You are more than welcome to work on campus even if your don’t qualify for the work-study program.
Maryam - Nashville, TN
Is the cost for a mealplan covered by the QuestBridge scholarship for QB Match students?
ND Admissions
If you were one of the students matched with Notre Dame with the National Questbridge Scholarship then the scholarship does cover room and board (and board includes the meal plan).
Shannon - Stamford, CT
Is there a concentration in neuroscience available?
ND Admissions
There is a concentration in Neuroscience for graduate students. Undergraduate students in their Junior or Senior year could pursue some research internships at the discretion of a Professor.
Erik - Holland, MI
I was accepted early action and I'm wondering when I'll recieve financial information.
Also, are there any merit-based scholarships out there?
ND Admissions
Erik,
If you have completed both the FAFSA and the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE and submitted all other requested documents, we anticipate early action students to receive their financial aid packages in mid to late March.
Students and parents inquire about applying for “academic” or “merit” scholarships at Notre
Dame. Financial Aid at Notre Dame is administered and awarded based upon the demonstrated
financial need of the student.
Matt - Kingwood, TX
In regards to the mid-year grade report, is there any deadline that this document needs to be submitted to the University? I recently discovered that I have still not given the form to my counselor. Should I get on this ASAP?
ND Admissions
The sooner we receive your mid-year grade report, the sooner we can process your application. Please send it in ASAP.
Kevin - East Northport, NY
How's the weather over the course of the year compared to what it's like on Long Island?
ND Admissions
Hi Kevin,
I’m from New Jersey so I think you and I have similar weather. Honestly, I find it a little colder here than at home. It probably snows with more frequency here but thus far there hasn’t been much accumulation.
Lauren - Monroe, NJ
I'm interested in going out for the marching band, but I'm not entirely sure if I want to my first year. Is it possible to join second year?
ND Admissions
Hi Lauren,
It’s possible to join your sophomore year—tryouts are held each year right before the start of the school year.
Andrew - Bemus Point, NY
What is the best option the university offers to someone who can't decide between pursuing the humanities or the sciences?
ND Admissions
Hi, Andrew. Many students have this question and we can put together a fall schedule which keeps options open for science and the liberal arts. This is an advantage of our First Year of Studies program which will help students put hybrid programs together that satisfy a variety of interests.
Jay - Grosse Pointe, MI
Do the dorms come equipped with satellite TV?
ND Admissions
The dorms are not equipped with satellite TV. The rooms each have a cable connection, so you can bring a TV.
Olivia - San Rafael, CA
With regards to varsity crew...I know that not many high schools offer this as a sport, and although mine does, other sports prevented me from doing it. Anyways, do you happen to know how many rowers have previous experience with the sport? Are there a lot of walk-ons?
ND Admissions
The women’s rowing team at Notre Dame is really highly ranked and does very well, they were ranked third at one point last spring.
That being said, there are a HUGE number of walk-ons, each year the novice crew is comprised of anywhere between 16-24 girls, most of which never rowed in high school. Many of the ones who did row in high school get recruited to the team during their senior year.
You could also consider coxing for the men’s team or women’s team if you’re afraid of experience and such. Definitely give it a try, the St. Joe’s river is beautiful.
Nick - Dallas, TX
What are the possibilities for someone who isn't good enough to play for the Varsity Ice Hockey team to still play Ice Hockey? When I visited campus last year, I was told the school's rink was used only for the Varsity team, so is there another rink nearby other students can use?
ND Admissions
Interhall, which is much like intermurals at other universities, is a great opportunity for those who don’t play at the varsity level to play. The ice rink used by the varsity team is used during interhall games and some co-rec activities.
Emily - Fairfield, CT
Does ND have inter-hall badminton?
ND Admissions
Hi Emily,
I’m pretty sure Co-rec sports offers badminton.
Molly - Schererville, IN
I would really like to be on the newspaper. Is it pretty competitive to get a place on staff?
ND Admissions
Thanks for your question! It is likely you’ll be able to work on the newspaper, The Observer, even as a freshmen. This should include writing positions, although many of the editors are upper-classmen. You can read more about the daily student newspaper here: http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/home/.
Ellen - Charlotte, NC
When do EA students find out if they have made it into the Honors Program?
ND Admissions
Ellen,
Potential Glynn Scholars are invited to apply soon after they receive an offer of admission to Notre Dame. In order to apply, they must complete a short essay indicating their interest in the Program. If you are invited to the Glynn Honors Program, you should be notified sometime within the next 6-8 weeks.
Profile of a Glynn Scholar”
* Class Rank: Top 1-2 % of high school class
* SAT range (Math and Critical Reading): 1500-1600
* ACT range (Combined): 34-36
“Numbers” alone do not qualify students to be designated a Glynn Scholar. Glynn Scholars also demonstrate extraordinary intellectual accomplishment and talent for doing challenging work in both the humanities and sciences.
Rene - Carmel, IN
In addition to my previous question, does ND take into consideration business expenses accounted for in the tax return submitted?
ND Admissions
Hi again -
Notre Dame does take into account business expenses rather than only looking at the gross income on the tax return.
Matthew - Southlake, TX
Do a majority of students and professors have either a Mac or PC?
ND Admissions
Hi Matthew,
It’s likely that the majority of students and professors use a PC, but you’ll find a fair number of Macs also. You can certainly buy and use either one and there is technical support available for both.
Eric - New Orleans, LA
What classes are required in the First Year of Studies, and can AP credits be used towards fufilling these requirements?
ND Admissions
Hi, Eric. We’ll send you everything you need to know about your schedule this summer. But since you asked, the First Year curriculum is a semester of math in the fall and spring, a semester of science in the fall and spring, a composition course and a seminar, one in each semester. This leaves space for two more courses in each semester which can be filled with university requirements like philosophy and theology or electives of your choosing. AP credit can be used to fill requirements but you should discuss the specifics of this with your first year advisor.
Linda - Silver Spring, MD
My son was admitted to ND and would really like to attend but I'm worried about the cost. Why doesn't ND give academic scholarships like other universities and colleges?
ND Admissions
Dear Linda,
Students and parents inquire about applying for “academic” or “merit” scholarships at Notre
Dame. Financial Aid at Notre Dame is administered and awarded based upon the demonstrated
financial need of the student. All students admitted through the University’s very selective
admissions process are considered worthy of scholarship consideration on the basis of their
outstanding academic and personal credentials. A thorough and consistent review of each
applicant is conducted by the Financial Aid Office each year in order to determine a student’s
financial aid eligibility, including scholarship eligibility.
We encourage you to complete the financial aid process so we may evaluate your eligibility.
Hannah - Mililani, Hi
How are the dorms situated, are they doubles, suites, etc?
ND Admissions
The answer to your question really depends on which dorm you’re put into. In my dorm (the great Zahm) we lived in triples, but some of my friends also lived in quads, and doubles. You definitely won’t be in a single. Suites…not so much.
Tom - Worcester, MA
How easy and how expensive is it to get from Notre Dame to Chicago?
ND Admissions
Hi Tom,
It’s pretty easy. Not only is Chicago only 90 miles away (so it’s an easy drive if you know someone with a car), but there is a bus that leaves from campus and goes to Midway and O’Hare Airports in Chicago. The SouthShore train also leaves from the South Bend airport and runs right into downtown Chicago. The train is about $10 one way and the bus is about $35 for a one way ticket.
Katie - Okemos, MI
I'm thinking about double-majoring in music; I sent in a CD with my application. Can anyone tell me what happens next?
ND Admissions
Hi Katie,
Your CD was forwarded to the music department for their review which could have helped in the admissions process. Once you arrive on campus you are more than welcome to discuss double majoring in music with your first year advisor and/or the music department.
Matt - Haworth, NJ
Can you talk a little bit about the residential halls? Are halls divided based on grade, or do students from all grades live in any particular hall? Also, how many people typically live in one room?
ND Admissions
Residence life is a huge part of the Notre Dame experience. Students are randomly placed in dorms which do include all grade levels, though your roommate(s) your first year will be other first year students. Rooms can have anywhere from 1-5 people depending on the dorm. You may want to visit The Office of Residence Life and Housing for more detailed information.
Kevin - East Northport, NY
What's the social scene like? Lots of parties?
ND Admissions
The social scene is quite diverse. From the omnipresent Halo and/or Smash Bros. tournament to the cramped dorm party, there are many opportunities for students to socialize on campus. Student organizations often host events on campus throughout the year. There are also a number of off-campus parties and for those of legal age, there is a bar/club scene.
Andrew - Carmel, IN
Received the info regarding the submission of tax returns and W2s. How long after you receive would it take for notification of any award would be given. Main reason is that most universities want a response by May 1 and other that have offered scholarships want a response by April 1.
ND Admissions
Dear Andrew,
Financial aid award letters will begin being sent to students admitted in the early action program in mid-March and to regular action admitted students at the end of March.
Olivia - San Rafael, CA
I know I should probably "trust the process," but about housing...since the dorms are assigned randomly, have there been any horror stories--like one roommate wanting to stay up until 3am, while the other wants to go to bed at 9pm?
ND Admissions
Hi Olivia,
As with any university, I am sure that there are some people who absolutely cannot get along, however that being said, I have never personally heard such stories here. Though living in a dorm can be a big adjustment for some people, it does not take long to become used to living with another person (I’m an only child, I know!). Remember, everyone is in the same position as a freshman, so as far as I have seen and experienced, most people get along just fine with their roommates.
Leann - Carmel, IN
I was wondering what the average financial aid package from Notre Dame looks like, my parents are excited that I made it into Notre Dame, but they are not sure whether or not we'll be able to pay for it, since I have a sister already in college.
ND Admissions
Hi Leann -
As you probably know, all financial aid at Notre Dame is need-based. Therefore, it’s difficult to state what the “average” award consists of. That said, students with financial need can expect their financial aid awards to contain workstudy and loan components, as well as University gift if the student qualifies.
When determining a family’s demonstrated financial need, we take into account many factors. Among these is whether there are any other children in the family in college. So, you can be assured that we will take this into account.
Jay - Grosse Pointe, MI
What should we bring to college?
ND Admissions
Hi Jay,
Most college rooms will have a television, fridge, and then whatever game systems you and your roommate may decide you need/want. Typically one person buys the fridge and the other brings the tv. Also, once you get on campus you may decide you want a futon or couch in your room which can be easily and cheaply purchased during orientation weekend on campus.
In terms of miscellaneous items of what to bring, you may want to visit a store like Bed Bath and Beyond during the summer and they’ll have itemized lists of everything you could possibly ever need.
I advise not bringing too much, there are plenty of shopping locations around campus where you can get everything!
Hope this helps!
Connor - , NJ
If I'm going to have 25-30 AP credits, what classes do I start with as an incoming freshman?
ND Admissions
Connor, I’d really have to see what your AP credits are in and what you plan to study before I can answer this. Sometimes AP credit will get a student out of course and they can move on to other courses but not always. The advisors spend a lot of time working with students to see what AP credit they should use and what AP credit won’t work.
Eric - New Orleans, LA
What if our parents will not have their 2007 taxes ready before April 1st for Finanical Aid packages, especially with the current IRS confusion of deadlines/policies?
ND Admissions
Dear Eric,
The priority deadline for submitting the required financial aid applications is February 15. To meet this deadline we suggest you use estimated income information. Once the federal tax return is available it should be sent to our office. We will complete our review and prepare a financial aid package at that time. Our goal is to prepare a financial aid award for applicants prior to the May 1 applicant reply date.
Carly - Westford, MA
Do you know if Notre Dame offers any courses in sign language?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame offers an introductory course for sign language. In this course, students learn conversational skills in addition to studying Deaf culture.
Laura - Broadview Heights, OH
Hi,is there a specific visitation day for students admitted Early Action?
ND Admissions
Hi Laura,
You and your family are more than welcome to visit at any point in time, but there are some specific days that our office will host evening receptions. Please reference your admit packet for those dates.
Sharon - Fairfax, VA
Can engineering students study abroad in Innsbruck?
ND Admissions
The engineering program is one of the most structured on campus; while the department is very good about ensuring that students are able to fit in and take advantage of all of the opportunities they wish, it is more common for engineering students to study in London or Australia, where we have specific engineering facilities, than the other abroad programs.
Sarah - Chesapeake, VA
Has anybody studied abroad? Did you have a good experience?
ND Admissions
Hi Sarah. Over half of our students study abroad at some point. I studied in London during the fall of 2005, and it was one of the best parts of my college experience. You take classes while you are abroad, and a number of students will have the opportunity to work in an internship while they are in that country. We have programs throughout Europe, 2 in Australia, Asia, Africa, and South America.
Laura - Appleton, WI
When are we assigned a first year adviser?
ND Admissions
Hi, Laura. Your advisor will be assigned this summer and he or she will start reading your folder and working on your schedule this summer. You can call or write this summer to discuss things with your advisor if you would like. Some students who live close by even come by for a visit to talk with their advisor in person.
Hannah - Mililani, Hi
How do you get to the airport from Notre Dame and what do people do with their stuff at the end of the school year? Do they put it in storage facilities?
ND Admissions
Hi Hannah,
There is a regional airport in South Bend, Indiana, right next to Notre Dame (it’s a 10 minute cab ride or drive with a friend). If you’re flying into Chicago then there are scheduled busses that run very frequently from O’Hare or Midway to the Notre Dame campus, literally to the Notre Dame campus.
Many residence halls sponsor their own storage units by renting storage facilities and then charging students a discounted rate for storage, some have storage rooms in the basements of their buildings. Most just find a local friends house to put their stuff in or rent a storage closet for the summer, it’s not very expensive at all!
Hope this helps!
Scott - Defiance, OH
Recently, some of the Ivy League colleges have announced a dramatic change in their financial aid policies making more funds available to middle class students. Is Notre Dame planning to follow suit?
ND Admissions
Dear Scott,
Please see the answer we posted earlier in this chat regarding this issue.
Kathleen - Chesapeake, VA
Recently some private schools have changed their financial aid model to 10 percent of household income. Is ND contemplating such a change?
ND Admissions
Please see the answer we posted earlier in this chat regarding this issue.
Tommy - Pennington, NJ
What's the weather been like lately? Extremely cold or snowy?
ND Admissions
Hi Tommy,
Well, this is always the time of the year to expect cold and snow but we happened to have some unusual weather here in the last 24 hours. As we type it’s 10 degrees .
Mary - Chicago,
What should I bring with me to my new home..... microwave? frig?
ND Admissions
You’ll definitely want a fridge. I don’t think if you’ll need a microwave, and it might actually be the case that you can’t bring a microwave. You should get a welcome kit from your dorm during the summer that tells you all of that good stuff. If you’re really worried about popping popcorn and cooking those healthy choice dinners (or my favorite, RAMEN!), you’ll probably be able to use your dorm’s microwave (you’ll probably find it on the first floor or in the basement).
Jeff - Mokena, IL
I was accepted as a chemical engineering major and also am a Riley Scholar. I have received information from the Department of Engineering inviting me to the Engineering Open House February 7th and 8th, but I've also received letters mentioning a Riley Scholars weekend. When is it, is it for engineering majors, and should I come to both?
ND Admissions
Students who are interested in Engineering are invited to attend the Engineering-only weekends, hosted by the Engineering Department. The Reilly Weekends will not have programming for Engineers this year. It’s a bit confusing, but either way you’ll be able come out and get a good feel for campus!
Michelle - Austin, TX
Are there job oppertunities on campus even if you don't qualify for the work-study program?
ND Admissions
Hi Michelle,
You are more than welcome to work on campus even if your don’t qualify for the work-study program.
Maryam - Nashville, TN
Is the cost for a mealplan covered by the QuestBridge scholarship for QB Match students?
ND Admissions
If you were one of the students matched with Notre Dame with the National Questbridge Scholarship then the scholarship does cover room and board (and board includes the meal plan).
Shannon - Stamford, CT
Is there a concentration in neuroscience available?
ND Admissions
There is a concentration in Neuroscience for graduate students. Undergraduate students in their Junior or Senior year could pursue some research internships at the discretion of a Professor.
Erik - Holland, MI
I was accepted early action and I'm wondering when I'll recieve financial information. Also, are there any merit-based scholarships out there?
ND Admissions
Erik,
If you have completed both the FAFSA and the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE and submitted all other requested documents, we anticipate early action students to receive their financial aid packages in mid to late March.
Students and parents inquire about applying for “academic” or “merit” scholarships at Notre Dame. Financial Aid at Notre Dame is administered and awarded based upon the demonstrated financial need of the student.
Matt - Kingwood, TX
In regards to the mid-year grade report, is there any deadline that this document needs to be submitted to the University? I recently discovered that I have still not given the form to my counselor. Should I get on this ASAP?
ND Admissions
The sooner we receive your mid-year grade report, the sooner we can process your application. Please send it in ASAP.
Kevin - East Northport, NY
How's the weather over the course of the year compared to what it's like on Long Island?
ND Admissions
Hi Kevin,
I’m from New Jersey so I think you and I have similar weather. Honestly, I find it a little colder here than at home. It probably snows with more frequency here but thus far there hasn’t been much accumulation.
Lauren - Monroe, NJ
I'm interested in going out for the marching band, but I'm not entirely sure if I want to my first year. Is it possible to join second year?
ND Admissions
Hi Lauren,
It’s possible to join your sophomore year—tryouts are held each year right before the start of the school year.
Andrew - Bemus Point, NY
What is the best option the university offers to someone who can't decide between pursuing the humanities or the sciences?
ND Admissions
Hi, Andrew. Many students have this question and we can put together a fall schedule which keeps options open for science and the liberal arts. This is an advantage of our First Year of Studies program which will help students put hybrid programs together that satisfy a variety of interests.
Jay - Grosse Pointe, MI
Do the dorms come equipped with satellite TV?
ND Admissions
The dorms are not equipped with satellite TV. The rooms each have a cable connection, so you can bring a TV.
Olivia - San Rafael, CA
With regards to varsity crew...I know that not many high schools offer this as a sport, and although mine does, other sports prevented me from doing it. Anyways, do you happen to know how many rowers have previous experience with the sport? Are there a lot of walk-ons?
ND Admissions
The women’s rowing team at Notre Dame is really highly ranked and does very well, they were ranked third at one point last spring.
That being said, there are a HUGE number of walk-ons, each year the novice crew is comprised of anywhere between 16-24 girls, most of which never rowed in high school. Many of the ones who did row in high school get recruited to the team during their senior year.
You could also consider coxing for the men’s team or women’s team if you’re afraid of experience and such. Definitely give it a try, the St. Joe’s river is beautiful.
Nick - Dallas, TX
What are the possibilities for someone who isn't good enough to play for the Varsity Ice Hockey team to still play Ice Hockey? When I visited campus last year, I was told the school's rink was used only for the Varsity team, so is there another rink nearby other students can use?
ND Admissions
Interhall, which is much like intermurals at other universities, is a great opportunity for those who don’t play at the varsity level to play. The ice rink used by the varsity team is used during interhall games and some co-rec activities.
Emily - Fairfield, CT
Does ND have inter-hall badminton?
ND Admissions
Hi Emily,
I’m pretty sure Co-rec sports offers badminton.
Molly - Schererville, IN
I would really like to be on the newspaper. Is it pretty competitive to get a place on staff?
ND Admissions
Thanks for your question! It is likely you’ll be able to work on the newspaper, The Observer, even as a freshmen. This should include writing positions, although many of the editors are upper-classmen. You can read more about the daily student newspaper here: http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/home/.
Ellen - Charlotte, NC
When do EA students find out if they have made it into the Honors Program?
ND Admissions
Ellen,
Potential Glynn Scholars are invited to apply soon after they receive an offer of admission to Notre Dame. In order to apply, they must complete a short essay indicating their interest in the Program. If you are invited to the Glynn Honors Program, you should be notified sometime within the next 6-8 weeks.
Profile of a Glynn Scholar” * Class Rank: Top 1-2 % of high school class * SAT range (Math and Critical Reading): 1500-1600 * ACT range (Combined): 34-36
“Numbers” alone do not qualify students to be designated a Glynn Scholar. Glynn Scholars also demonstrate extraordinary intellectual accomplishment and talent for doing challenging work in both the humanities and sciences.
Rene - Carmel, IN
In addition to my previous question, does ND take into consideration business expenses accounted for in the tax return submitted?
ND Admissions
Hi again -
Notre Dame does take into account business expenses rather than only looking at the gross income on the tax return.
Matthew - Southlake, TX
Do a majority of students and professors have either a Mac or PC?
ND Admissions
Hi Matthew,
It’s likely that the majority of students and professors use a PC, but you’ll find a fair number of Macs also. You can certainly buy and use either one and there is technical support available for both.
Eric - New Orleans, LA
What classes are required in the First Year of Studies, and can AP credits be used towards fufilling these requirements?
ND Admissions
Hi, Eric. We’ll send you everything you need to know about your schedule this summer. But since you asked, the First Year curriculum is a semester of math in the fall and spring, a semester of science in the fall and spring, a composition course and a seminar, one in each semester. This leaves space for two more courses in each semester which can be filled with university requirements like philosophy and theology or electives of your choosing. AP credit can be used to fill requirements but you should discuss the specifics of this with your first year advisor.
Linda - Silver Spring, MD
My son was admitted to ND and would really like to attend but I'm worried about the cost. Why doesn't ND give academic scholarships like other universities and colleges?
ND Admissions
Dear Linda,
Students and parents inquire about applying for “academic” or “merit” scholarships at Notre Dame. Financial Aid at Notre Dame is administered and awarded based upon the demonstrated financial need of the student. All students admitted through the University’s very selective admissions process are considered worthy of scholarship consideration on the basis of their outstanding academic and personal credentials. A thorough and consistent review of each applicant is conducted by the Financial Aid Office each year in order to determine a student’s financial aid eligibility, including scholarship eligibility.
We encourage you to complete the financial aid process so we may evaluate your eligibility.
Hannah - Mililani, Hi
How are the dorms situated, are they doubles, suites, etc?
ND Admissions
The answer to your question really depends on which dorm you’re put into. In my dorm (the great Zahm) we lived in triples, but some of my friends also lived in quads, and doubles. You definitely won’t be in a single. Suites…not so much.
Tom - Worcester, MA
How easy and how expensive is it to get from Notre Dame to Chicago?
ND Admissions
Hi Tom,
It’s pretty easy. Not only is Chicago only 90 miles away (so it’s an easy drive if you know someone with a car), but there is a bus that leaves from campus and goes to Midway and O’Hare Airports in Chicago. The SouthShore train also leaves from the South Bend airport and runs right into downtown Chicago. The train is about $10 one way and the bus is about $35 for a one way ticket.
Katie - Okemos, MI
I'm thinking about double-majoring in music; I sent in a CD with my application. Can anyone tell me what happens next?
ND Admissions
Hi Katie,
Your CD was forwarded to the music department for their review which could have helped in the admissions process. Once you arrive on campus you are more than welcome to discuss double majoring in music with your first year advisor and/or the music department.
Matt - Haworth, NJ
Can you talk a little bit about the residential halls? Are halls divided based on grade, or do students from all grades live in any particular hall? Also, how many people typically live in one room?
ND Admissions
Residence life is a huge part of the Notre Dame experience. Students are randomly placed in dorms which do include all grade levels, though your roommate(s) your first year will be other first year students. Rooms can have anywhere from 1-5 people depending on the dorm. You may want to visit The Office of Residence Life and Housing for more detailed information.
