Chats » Regular Action Admitted Student Chat 2007/2008
Jake - Portland, OR
What is done to help freshmen meet and get to know one another? I come from a smaller high school, so I was wondering if it was difficult to meet and get to know people well as a freshman.
ND Admissions
Hi Jake-
It is very easy to meet people and make friends once you get to campus. I also came from a small high school, so I understand the anxiety. Freshmen Orientation, which you’ll be hearing much about, is designed so that you meet lots of other Freshmen and begin to get to know people. Another great avenue for this is the residential life on campus. Because of the way dorms are set up to be small, tight-knit communities, you really get to know people in your dorm quickly and well. I always felt like I got the best of both worlds at ND: the big university atmosphere that I wanted to study in and the small supportive community I wanted to live and play in.
Laura - Hamburg, NY
obviously ND students receive a great education, but i hear the job placement is really great, how does that work, is it mostly alumni hookups or a really good advising system, etc?
ND Admissions
Hi Laura,
Notre Dame has an amazing Career Center that encourages even first-year students to take advantage of its resources. I encourage you to check out their webite at www.careercenter.nd.edu. The world-wide alumni network is an added bonus!
Andrew - Norwalk, CT
I know that ND's architecture program is very classical. However, I was hoping to find out more information out about the program, such as:
1.How computer-based is the program?
2. I heard that model-making is not a part of ND's architecture program. Is this true?
3. How many opportunities are there to explore other architectural styles (i.e. modern, post-modern, avante-garde) within ND's program and curriculum.
4. What percentage of your graduates end up working in the New York metropolitian area?
5. What is the average starting salary for a ND architecture graduate?
6. What kind of projects do your graduates tend to take on as professionals?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s architecture program is classically based. Our architecture department strives to give students a solid grounding in working by hand first, and then moving to computers. Computers will be introduced during the 4th year, and those courses will teach computer graphic skills, building digital models, and working with web design and animation. Model making is included in the program’s 5 year curriculum.
Students will have the opportunity to explore different architectural styles. They will study some modern works, and then spend their third year in Rome, taking in more classical works. During the fourth year, students learn how those basic principles that they studied in Italy are applied to the American City.
The average starting salary for an ND architecture graduate is about $42,000. 9% of our architecture majors will go to the New England area, quite a few of those in New York.
Ana - Temecula, CA
My scholarship is only for the first year, and I am told I may reapply if I keep my grades up. Is it most likely that it will be renewed if I meet the grade requirements ,or is it not necessarily the case (ie shouldn't count on it even if I maintain a high gpa)?
ND Admissions
Dear Ana,
Financial aid at Notre Dame is an annual process because it is based upon financial need and family circumstances change. To maintain your scholarship, you must apply annually by the priority deadline, continue to demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum cumultaive GPA of 2.0. If family circumstances remain relatively the same we would anticipate that your scholarship would remain the same.
Micahlyn - Terre Haute, IN
Do students have any say in which dorm assignment they will receive? If so, what do I need to do?
ND Admissions
Michalyn, students do not have say in their residence hall assignment.
Undecided - Americatown, USA
Are football games free for students?
ND Admissions
Unfortunately no. Student tickets cost about $200 a season, which is a pretty good discount from the face value of $60 a game. If the cost is prohibitive, each dorm has a fund to help people out so that they can enjoy the games. One other thing to consider, we are one of the few schools where every student gets to go to the games, not just those selected in the lottery.
Yichao - Suzhou,
What about the entrance exams during the orientation? I know there is a math exam for different college students(I'm an engineering student). But the language exam is a little weird. Do I have to take the English one(though I don't find it from the materials you mailed me)? Or the language exams just test Spanish, German, Chinese or Japanese? And how difficult are the exams, comparing to SAT or AP, both the math and language ones? Thank you for your answer.
ND Admissions
Yichao, the course credit exams in MATH are only for those students who had calculus in secondary school, but did not have a chance to take an AP exam. There are placement exams in a number of languages that you did not mention including Arabic, Chinese, and Latin. As an engineering student you do not need to complete a language requirement, beyond First Year Composition. There is not an English test. All of the exams are similar in difficulty to AP.
William Dunckelman - Houma, LA
Does Notre Dame promote study-abroad programs? What about summer interships?
ND Admissions
Yes and yes! Studying abroad is huge at Notre Dame—almost 60% of our students will study abroad for a semester, year or summer. There are programs all over the world; you can find more information here: study abroad
Summer internships are also available all over the world. The career center and different departments on campus do a wonderful job of putting you in a position to receive coveted positions over the summer—and after graduation!
Will - Atlanta, GA
What kind of transportation is available to the airports in Chicago during breaks?
ND Admissions
Hi Will,
Some students take the bus service, United Limo, in order to go to the Chicago airports. The bus leaves from the main gate and brings you straight to both the Midway and O’Hare terminals. There is also a train that goes from the South Bend airport to downtown Chicago. From here, some students hop on the El to get to the airports from there. Finally, many students who have cars or friends that live in Chicago choose to carpool in order to get to the airports.
Senay - Hawthorne, CA
I have a question on financial aid.
I got my Financial Aid Package and I feel like I might need a little more support to make things easier on paying for my education. is there any possible way i an request any subsidised loan (or any other way to help with the cost)? I already have the Perkins Loan.
ND Admissions
Hi Senay,
We are not able to discuss the specifics of financial aid packages during this web chat. I would suggest that you contact the Financial Aid Office by email (finaid@nd.edu) or call the office at 574-631-6436 and ask to speak to a counselor about your specific concerns.
Andrew - Middletown, DE
Is there any possible way to be placed in a specific dorm and/or with a specific person?
ND Admissions
Nope. It’s really cool to go out and meet other people in your dorm and the community. Also, regardless of which dorm you’re placed in, it’s sure to become the “best dorm on campus” in your eyes.
Reza - Fort Lauderdale, FL
Where do most students from Mendoza get jobs after graduating. Are they mostly in Chicago or do a large portion go to the coasts?
ND Admissions
Hi Reza-
This really varies depending on major within Mendoza. There are endless lists of Fortune 500 companies that heavily recruit and employ ND Mendoza grads. The Career Center and the College of Business go out of their way to help students find jobs and internships with large, well-respected companies. In terms of location, this again depends on major and company. There are a large number of people who do move to Chicago after graduation, yet some people head to other cities or gravitate towards home. You’d have options based on your preferences!
Bridget - Toronto, ON
Is there much to do on weekends that doesn't involve alcohol?
ND Admissions
Bridget,
There is plenty to do. While many people do enjoy their alcoholic beverages on weekends, there are many other things to do. Hanging out with friends in your room, going to the Student Union Board movie, hanging out at the student center, heading into South Bend or Mishawaka for a movie or dinner, all of these are great options. You will also find that is is easy to find fun stuff to do anywhere on campus. Alcohol does not need to be the defining thing about your time here.
Tatiana - Rio de Janeiro, RJ
How preprofessional is ND? As in, what percentage of students go to med school or law school after graduation, or business school within 5 years of graduation?
ND Admissions
Tatiana,
About 30% of the student body goes on into Law, Medical, or Graduate school after graduation each year. Roughly 55% of our students enter into full time employment, 10% into service programs, and 5% into the armed services.
Of students applying to medical school, students from Notre Dame are admitted at a rate of about 75-80%—almost double the national average of other schools in the United States!
Jake - Portland, OR
I'm looking to visit the campus next week. Is that an ok time? Or is there some kind of open house day that I should go on?
ND Admissions
Hello Jake,
If you refer to your admit packet, there is a quick procedure to follow for a campus visit. We do need sufficient notice for an overnight visit. We encourage you to come for one of our Thursday night Open House receptions.
evan adamson - downey, CA
Is the engineering program based on theory or is it more hands on?
ND Admissions
I would say there is a good mix of both. A lot of classes are based around a project that implements the theory learned in the lectures. For example, as an Aero, you get to build a “bomber”. There’s a lot of theory involved in designing a glider that can navigate a constantly terrain and still manage to hit a target with a golf ball, but it takes it to another level when you actually build and implement that design. And then there’s always the senior design project…
Kelly - South Bend, IN
I have a scholarship that covers my tuition. Do I still have to pay the $500 enrollment fee? Or is there any way to waive it?
ND Admissions
Hi Kelly,
Students who receive financial aid are still expected to pay their $500 enrollment fee. If you have concerns about paying your fee, I suggest you contact your admissions counselor to discuss your concerns.
Reza - Fort Lauderdale, FL
Is it possible and doable to study both management and biology, possibly as a double major?
ND Admissions
Reza,
It is very possible and is done quite frequently. You will have to work with the two departments to put together a timeline and a schedule that will work for both departments.
Tatiana - Rio de Janeiro, RJ
To current students... what do you consider ND's flaws? What don't you like, or are/were you disappointed with?
ND Admissions
Hi Tatiana-
I love Notre Dame, so this is a tough one for me. First of all, South Bend weather is not ideal. It can be cold and windy, but it is very very rare that the other great aspects of Notre Dame don’t compensate for it. My only other issue is that ND is not as diverse as some other schools, but the University works very hard to become more diverse. I’ve loved the activities and events put on by multi-cultural students on campus, so it’s a very welcoming environment for the diversity!
Maria - Mishawaka, IN
I'm interested in majoring in Classics, History, or Medieval studies. Any pointers, suggestions, cool professors?
ND Admissions
Hey Maria -
Notre Dame’s a great place to study the Classics and Medieval Studies. The Classics department, while relatively small, is growing, so you’ll have a good selection of classes each semester, but very small class-sizes where you have a great opportunity to work closely and get to know your professors. As for Medieval Studies, Notre Dame has one of the premiere programs in the graduate Medieval Studies located at the Medieval Institute in Hesburgh Library. The outstanding faculty that work with the graduate students there often teach undergraduate classes in a wide range of topics from ecclesiastical history to feudal society, etc. The Rare Book Room at Hesburgh Library is also a great resource of medieval manuscripts that, depending upon your class selections, you may have the opportunity to work with hands-on doing research.
Ben - Nairobi, KE
Wow. I have a lot of questions. First, I guess, is this- football is a bit foreign to me, and although I am adamant about cheering my friends and school on and going crazy sometimes... does the social life completely revolve around the sport?
ND Admissions
Hey Ben,
Football is definitely a great part of the Notre Dame experience. If you don’t know too much about football, there is actually a workshop which teaches the ins and outs of the game at the beginning of each year, but it is a very easy sport to pick up on. If you are adamant about cheering for your school, then you will fit right in here at ND. The social life does not revolve around football, but it definitely plays a role in the social life here in the fall, especially on football Saturdays, but it’s the sort of aspect of the university that is what you make of it.
Nick - Houston, Texas
I was brought up in the Catholic church, but I am not confirmed. Does Notre Dame offer confirmation?
ND Admissions
Nick,
Notre Dame has a very vibrant Campus Ministry office and one of their big programs is RCIA. Each year around 20 people go through the program and are welcomed at the Easter Vigil. Contact the office of Campus Ministry (campusministry.nd.edu) if you are interested in joining the Confirmation program.
Tom - Houston, TX
How does the student newspaper work at ND? Can freshmen sign up to be photographers... is that even a position?
ND Admissions
The paper is entirely student run and I’m sure if you stopped by the offices earlier in the year they would be more than happy to have your help and assistance!
Christine - Schertz, TX
What is the reasoning behind offering need based scholarship only and no academic scholarships?
ND Admissions
Dear Christine,
The University has chosen to focus our financial aid programs on need-based assistance to ensure those students who cannot afford the University without aid are able to do so. While we direct a significant amount of resources to scholarship assistance, we have do have a limit on what can be expended. In addition, the academic quality of our students is very high and each student we admit deserves to enroll. In this way, it would be difficult to determine who should be considered worthy of merit aid. In maintaining a focus on need-based aid, we believe we are doing the right thing in assisting those who would not be able to enroll because of finances.
Stacey - Atlanta, GA
Does being named a Notre Dame Scholar mean anything once I get to school?
ND Admissions
Stacey,
Congratulations on being distinguished as a Notre Dame Scholar. This is a recognition that we give at the time of admission to those admitted who are some of the most highly accomplished students (about the top 20%) in what is already a tremendously distinguished incoming class. You are encouraged to explore and take advantage of our academic programs, undergraduate research opportunities, international studies, and much more!
Gavin - Texarkana, AR
I haven't taken physics in high school and want to enroll in the college of science my sophmore year. Can i take physics at Notre Dame my freshman year to meet that requirement?
ND Admissions
Hello Gavin,
You should try to take a summer physics credit at a local college to give you the most flexibility within the College of Science. You do not have to take the course for credit. If this is not possible, please contact the Admissions Office.
William Dunckelman - Houma, LA
Is living on campus your first year required?
ND Admissions
Wiiliam, all first year students are required to live on campus, unless they live with relatives in South Bend.
Maria - Pittsburgh, PA
This may be a silly question, but do all students really have to take PE? What do you do in it? (playing sports fulfilled my PE requirement hs, so i'm just curious...)
also, i'm interested in pursuing a pre-med major; however, if i decide that i do not want to go on to become a doctor, are there a lot of opportunities for a career with only this degree? this question may be a bit premature at this stage, and i'm not sure if you can answer this, but i'm just wondering. thank you:)
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
Yes, PE is a requirement during your first year. It consists of six, four-week long rotations ranging from golf, weightlifting, fencing, to ballroom dancing. Two of those rotations are “Contemporary Topics”, a class which reviews healthy eating and sleeping habits, and ensuring that students are able to make a healthy transition between high school and college life.
The beauty of the academic structure here is that you are not bound to your intended major. In the First Year of Studies, you will take many core subjects which will count toward your graduation requirements. If at some point, you realize you would like to change your major, you have the freedom to change as many times as you’d like! You do not have to select your intended college until the end of your first year, and you have until the end of your second year to declare your major. You’re free to explore! As far as careers, there are several Career Fairs held during the year for the various colleges. Also, the Career Center does a wonderful job in assisting you with your future career path.
Nick - Houston, Texas
I would like to be part of the rowing or sailing team. Are there try-outs? Do they take novices?
ND Admissions
Hi Nick,
The men’s rowing team at Notre Dame is a club sport which holds tryouts each fall. I don’t know exactly who they will take, but I can tell you my roommate had never rowed before and made the team our sophomore year.
Tim - Schertz, TX
What would be the likelihood of a student being able to double major in two completely unrelated subjects, ie. science and music?
ND Admissions
Tim,
This happens frequently at Notre Dame. It takes a bit of working to get the schedules and timeline down, but most of the departments are very open to cross-majoring.
Patrick - Little Rock, AR
Do most ND students study abroad at some point during their time at ND? If so, is there a significant change in tuition? Does the University help with some of the cost of studying abroad?
ND Admissions
Hi Patrick-
More than half of the students at ND study abroad at some point in their career. You can study abroad either one semester, a whole year, or during a summer program. There is no change in tuiton if you study abroad during a semester, but there is an extra tuition if you participate in a summer program. All ND financial aid applies to study abroad, so if you already have financial aid, you’ll be ok. Check out the website for more details! Study Abroad
Allison - Ottawa, OH
Do most parents attend freshman orientation (I know that it is optional)? Where do they stay? Do they need to get a hotel room?
ND Admissions
Allison, yes, most parents do attend Orientation. They do need to reserve hotel rooms and there are many choices in the South Bend area.
Steven - Latham, NY
Do people generally contact their roomate before they leave to go to ND to coordinate who is bringing what?(ex:TV's, refridge, etc.)
ND Admissions
Hey Steven,
I would say the vast majority of students do contact their roommate before heading to ND in the fall. The Office of Residence Life gives out the e-mail addresses of all roommates, so it is very easy to make contact that way, but a lot of students, including myself, use facebook to make contact with a potential roommate. This contact makes it much easier to decide who is going to bring/purchase what, and makes the first meeting slightly less awkward.
Christopher - Houston, TX
It is hot here in Houston and have thought of waiting until I got to ND to buy my winter clothes...Is it easy for a freshman to get out and shop for clothes?
ND Admissions
Good question, Christopher. It would be very possible to buy winter clothes in South Bend. Although first-semester freshmen cannot have a car on campus, many upperclassmen are generous with offering rides. There is also a convenient bus service from campus to the most popular mall in town.
undecided - Anytown, USA
I am still trying to decide where I want to spend my next 4 years, i am leaning toward notre dame, but I am also considering UNC at chapel hill, i was wondering if anyone knows any distinct advantageous of ND
ND Admissions
There are a few distinct advantages to Notre Dame over UNC-Chapel Hill. The first that I would mention is the size difference, Notre Dame has an undergraduate population of about 8,000 students while UNC sits at roughly double that figure. Notre Dame is a school that is based in faith and if you are looking for a spiritually enriching education experience I would look towards Notre Dame. I also have to say that football Saturday’s in South Bend are above and beyond what you’ll find at UNC!
undecided - Anytown, USA
it says that ND is number one for students participating in intramural sports, what are they and are the teams made up of specific dorms? Also, how competitive are club teams?
ND Admissions
Hi Undecided,
There are over sixty intramural and club sports here at Notre Dame. Some, like interhall football, are pretty competitive and the teams may even be set through a tryouts process. However, others are more “fun” and “easygoing” and consist of teams of groups of friends playing together. A number of different sports and various levels of competition are represented in the intramural system.
Laura - Hamburg, NY
I am interested in Biomedical engineering i want to know if i can pursue that interest even though it is not a specified major
ND Admissions
Yes, there are a number of opportunities in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering for those interested in biomedical engineering.
Tricia - Cleveland, OH
Is it common for students to take classes at Saint Mary's that are not offered at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Hi Tricia,
Thanks for joining us tonight! It is not all that common for students to take classes at Saint Mary’s as many students will find courses offered at Notre Dame that will meet their interests and major requirements. However, there are instances where some students will find that Saint Mary’s offers courses that Notre Dame does not, a prime example are education courses. Notre Dame does not have an education major, so many students interested in education will take courses at Saint Mary’s while also taking courses towards their major at Notre Dame. It is also possible to take elective courses offered at Saint Mary’s. I hope that helps to answer your question!
Nick - Castle Rock, CO
How do you get a job on campus? Like being a tour guide or working in a library? Something that is laid back like that.
ND Admissions
Hey Nick -
If you have certain jobs in mind, I recommend that you start looking as soon as you get on campus. Most campus departments are eager to fill opening at the beginning of the academic year. If you have a certain interest, such as being a Tour Guide, go to that department and ask! In addition, keep an eye on Notre Dame’s Job Board, accessible from the Financial Aid website. While not an exhaustive list, it should provide a good starting point.
You will also notice that several departments actual recruit students at the beginning of the school year. So, keep an eye for that in LaFortune and other common areas.
Austen - The Woodlands, TX
I was wondering if the mens rowing team (crew) is able to help High School student gain admission to your University.
ND Admissions
Austen,
Thanks for your question! Our mens rowing team is a club sport at Notre Dame. Therefore, it is after being admitted to the University that students become involved with this sport. Good luck—Go Irish Crew!
Jake - Portland, OR
What is done to help freshmen meet and get to know one another? I come from a smaller high school, so I was wondering if it was difficult to meet and get to know people well as a freshman.
ND Admissions
Hi Jake- It is very easy to meet people and make friends once you get to campus. I also came from a small high school, so I understand the anxiety. Freshmen Orientation, which you’ll be hearing much about, is designed so that you meet lots of other Freshmen and begin to get to know people. Another great avenue for this is the residential life on campus. Because of the way dorms are set up to be small, tight-knit communities, you really get to know people in your dorm quickly and well. I always felt like I got the best of both worlds at ND: the big university atmosphere that I wanted to study in and the small supportive community I wanted to live and play in.
Laura - Hamburg, NY
obviously ND students receive a great education, but i hear the job placement is really great, how does that work, is it mostly alumni hookups or a really good advising system, etc?
ND Admissions
Hi Laura,
Notre Dame has an amazing Career Center that encourages even first-year students to take advantage of its resources. I encourage you to check out their webite at www.careercenter.nd.edu. The world-wide alumni network is an added bonus!
Andrew - Norwalk, CT
I know that ND's architecture program is very classical. However, I was hoping to find out more information out about the program, such as: 1.How computer-based is the program? 2. I heard that model-making is not a part of ND's architecture program. Is this true? 3. How many opportunities are there to explore other architectural styles (i.e. modern, post-modern, avante-garde) within ND's program and curriculum. 4. What percentage of your graduates end up working in the New York metropolitian area? 5. What is the average starting salary for a ND architecture graduate? 6. What kind of projects do your graduates tend to take on as professionals?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s architecture program is classically based. Our architecture department strives to give students a solid grounding in working by hand first, and then moving to computers. Computers will be introduced during the 4th year, and those courses will teach computer graphic skills, building digital models, and working with web design and animation. Model making is included in the program’s 5 year curriculum.
Students will have the opportunity to explore different architectural styles. They will study some modern works, and then spend their third year in Rome, taking in more classical works. During the fourth year, students learn how those basic principles that they studied in Italy are applied to the American City.
The average starting salary for an ND architecture graduate is about $42,000. 9% of our architecture majors will go to the New England area, quite a few of those in New York.
Ana - Temecula, CA
My scholarship is only for the first year, and I am told I may reapply if I keep my grades up. Is it most likely that it will be renewed if I meet the grade requirements ,or is it not necessarily the case (ie shouldn't count on it even if I maintain a high gpa)?
ND Admissions
Dear Ana,
Financial aid at Notre Dame is an annual process because it is based upon financial need and family circumstances change. To maintain your scholarship, you must apply annually by the priority deadline, continue to demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum cumultaive GPA of 2.0. If family circumstances remain relatively the same we would anticipate that your scholarship would remain the same.
Micahlyn - Terre Haute, IN
Do students have any say in which dorm assignment they will receive? If so, what do I need to do?
ND Admissions
Michalyn, students do not have say in their residence hall assignment.
Undecided - Americatown, USA
Are football games free for students?
ND Admissions
Unfortunately no. Student tickets cost about $200 a season, which is a pretty good discount from the face value of $60 a game. If the cost is prohibitive, each dorm has a fund to help people out so that they can enjoy the games. One other thing to consider, we are one of the few schools where every student gets to go to the games, not just those selected in the lottery.
Yichao - Suzhou,
What about the entrance exams during the orientation? I know there is a math exam for different college students(I'm an engineering student). But the language exam is a little weird. Do I have to take the English one(though I don't find it from the materials you mailed me)? Or the language exams just test Spanish, German, Chinese or Japanese? And how difficult are the exams, comparing to SAT or AP, both the math and language ones? Thank you for your answer.
ND Admissions
Yichao, the course credit exams in MATH are only for those students who had calculus in secondary school, but did not have a chance to take an AP exam. There are placement exams in a number of languages that you did not mention including Arabic, Chinese, and Latin. As an engineering student you do not need to complete a language requirement, beyond First Year Composition. There is not an English test. All of the exams are similar in difficulty to AP.
William Dunckelman - Houma, LA
Does Notre Dame promote study-abroad programs? What about summer interships?
ND Admissions
Yes and yes! Studying abroad is huge at Notre Dame—almost 60% of our students will study abroad for a semester, year or summer. There are programs all over the world; you can find more information here: study abroad
Summer internships are also available all over the world. The career center and different departments on campus do a wonderful job of putting you in a position to receive coveted positions over the summer—and after graduation!
Will - Atlanta, GA
What kind of transportation is available to the airports in Chicago during breaks?
ND Admissions
Hi Will,
Some students take the bus service, United Limo, in order to go to the Chicago airports. The bus leaves from the main gate and brings you straight to both the Midway and O’Hare terminals. There is also a train that goes from the South Bend airport to downtown Chicago. From here, some students hop on the El to get to the airports from there. Finally, many students who have cars or friends that live in Chicago choose to carpool in order to get to the airports.
Senay - Hawthorne, CA
I have a question on financial aid. I got my Financial Aid Package and I feel like I might need a little more support to make things easier on paying for my education. is there any possible way i an request any subsidised loan (or any other way to help with the cost)? I already have the Perkins Loan.
ND Admissions
Hi Senay, We are not able to discuss the specifics of financial aid packages during this web chat. I would suggest that you contact the Financial Aid Office by email (finaid@nd.edu) or call the office at 574-631-6436 and ask to speak to a counselor about your specific concerns.
Andrew - Middletown, DE
Is there any possible way to be placed in a specific dorm and/or with a specific person?
ND Admissions
Nope. It’s really cool to go out and meet other people in your dorm and the community. Also, regardless of which dorm you’re placed in, it’s sure to become the “best dorm on campus” in your eyes.
Reza - Fort Lauderdale, FL
Where do most students from Mendoza get jobs after graduating. Are they mostly in Chicago or do a large portion go to the coasts?
ND Admissions
Hi Reza- This really varies depending on major within Mendoza. There are endless lists of Fortune 500 companies that heavily recruit and employ ND Mendoza grads. The Career Center and the College of Business go out of their way to help students find jobs and internships with large, well-respected companies. In terms of location, this again depends on major and company. There are a large number of people who do move to Chicago after graduation, yet some people head to other cities or gravitate towards home. You’d have options based on your preferences!
Bridget - Toronto, ON
Is there much to do on weekends that doesn't involve alcohol?
ND Admissions
Bridget, There is plenty to do. While many people do enjoy their alcoholic beverages on weekends, there are many other things to do. Hanging out with friends in your room, going to the Student Union Board movie, hanging out at the student center, heading into South Bend or Mishawaka for a movie or dinner, all of these are great options. You will also find that is is easy to find fun stuff to do anywhere on campus. Alcohol does not need to be the defining thing about your time here.
Tatiana - Rio de Janeiro, RJ
How preprofessional is ND? As in, what percentage of students go to med school or law school after graduation, or business school within 5 years of graduation?
ND Admissions
Tatiana,
About 30% of the student body goes on into Law, Medical, or Graduate school after graduation each year. Roughly 55% of our students enter into full time employment, 10% into service programs, and 5% into the armed services.
Of students applying to medical school, students from Notre Dame are admitted at a rate of about 75-80%—almost double the national average of other schools in the United States!
Jake - Portland, OR
I'm looking to visit the campus next week. Is that an ok time? Or is there some kind of open house day that I should go on?
ND Admissions
Hello Jake,
If you refer to your admit packet, there is a quick procedure to follow for a campus visit. We do need sufficient notice for an overnight visit. We encourage you to come for one of our Thursday night Open House receptions.
evan adamson - downey, CA
Is the engineering program based on theory or is it more hands on?
ND Admissions
I would say there is a good mix of both. A lot of classes are based around a project that implements the theory learned in the lectures. For example, as an Aero, you get to build a “bomber”. There’s a lot of theory involved in designing a glider that can navigate a constantly terrain and still manage to hit a target with a golf ball, but it takes it to another level when you actually build and implement that design. And then there’s always the senior design project…
Kelly - South Bend, IN
I have a scholarship that covers my tuition. Do I still have to pay the $500 enrollment fee? Or is there any way to waive it?
ND Admissions
Hi Kelly, Students who receive financial aid are still expected to pay their $500 enrollment fee. If you have concerns about paying your fee, I suggest you contact your admissions counselor to discuss your concerns.
Reza - Fort Lauderdale, FL
Is it possible and doable to study both management and biology, possibly as a double major?
ND Admissions
Reza, It is very possible and is done quite frequently. You will have to work with the two departments to put together a timeline and a schedule that will work for both departments.
Tatiana - Rio de Janeiro, RJ
To current students... what do you consider ND's flaws? What don't you like, or are/were you disappointed with?
ND Admissions
Hi Tatiana- I love Notre Dame, so this is a tough one for me. First of all, South Bend weather is not ideal. It can be cold and windy, but it is very very rare that the other great aspects of Notre Dame don’t compensate for it. My only other issue is that ND is not as diverse as some other schools, but the University works very hard to become more diverse. I’ve loved the activities and events put on by multi-cultural students on campus, so it’s a very welcoming environment for the diversity!
Maria - Mishawaka, IN
I'm interested in majoring in Classics, History, or Medieval studies. Any pointers, suggestions, cool professors?
ND Admissions
Hey Maria -
Notre Dame’s a great place to study the Classics and Medieval Studies. The Classics department, while relatively small, is growing, so you’ll have a good selection of classes each semester, but very small class-sizes where you have a great opportunity to work closely and get to know your professors. As for Medieval Studies, Notre Dame has one of the premiere programs in the graduate Medieval Studies located at the Medieval Institute in Hesburgh Library. The outstanding faculty that work with the graduate students there often teach undergraduate classes in a wide range of topics from ecclesiastical history to feudal society, etc. The Rare Book Room at Hesburgh Library is also a great resource of medieval manuscripts that, depending upon your class selections, you may have the opportunity to work with hands-on doing research.
Ben - Nairobi, KE
Wow. I have a lot of questions. First, I guess, is this- football is a bit foreign to me, and although I am adamant about cheering my friends and school on and going crazy sometimes... does the social life completely revolve around the sport?
ND Admissions
Hey Ben,
Football is definitely a great part of the Notre Dame experience. If you don’t know too much about football, there is actually a workshop which teaches the ins and outs of the game at the beginning of each year, but it is a very easy sport to pick up on. If you are adamant about cheering for your school, then you will fit right in here at ND. The social life does not revolve around football, but it definitely plays a role in the social life here in the fall, especially on football Saturdays, but it’s the sort of aspect of the university that is what you make of it.
Nick - Houston, Texas
I was brought up in the Catholic church, but I am not confirmed. Does Notre Dame offer confirmation?
ND Admissions
Nick, Notre Dame has a very vibrant Campus Ministry office and one of their big programs is RCIA. Each year around 20 people go through the program and are welcomed at the Easter Vigil. Contact the office of Campus Ministry (campusministry.nd.edu) if you are interested in joining the Confirmation program.
Tom - Houston, TX
How does the student newspaper work at ND? Can freshmen sign up to be photographers... is that even a position?
ND Admissions
The paper is entirely student run and I’m sure if you stopped by the offices earlier in the year they would be more than happy to have your help and assistance!
Christine - Schertz, TX
What is the reasoning behind offering need based scholarship only and no academic scholarships?
ND Admissions
Dear Christine, The University has chosen to focus our financial aid programs on need-based assistance to ensure those students who cannot afford the University without aid are able to do so. While we direct a significant amount of resources to scholarship assistance, we have do have a limit on what can be expended. In addition, the academic quality of our students is very high and each student we admit deserves to enroll. In this way, it would be difficult to determine who should be considered worthy of merit aid. In maintaining a focus on need-based aid, we believe we are doing the right thing in assisting those who would not be able to enroll because of finances.
Stacey - Atlanta, GA
Does being named a Notre Dame Scholar mean anything once I get to school?
ND Admissions
Stacey,
Congratulations on being distinguished as a Notre Dame Scholar. This is a recognition that we give at the time of admission to those admitted who are some of the most highly accomplished students (about the top 20%) in what is already a tremendously distinguished incoming class. You are encouraged to explore and take advantage of our academic programs, undergraduate research opportunities, international studies, and much more!
Gavin - Texarkana, AR
I haven't taken physics in high school and want to enroll in the college of science my sophmore year. Can i take physics at Notre Dame my freshman year to meet that requirement?
ND Admissions
Hello Gavin,
You should try to take a summer physics credit at a local college to give you the most flexibility within the College of Science. You do not have to take the course for credit. If this is not possible, please contact the Admissions Office.
William Dunckelman - Houma, LA
Is living on campus your first year required?
ND Admissions
Wiiliam, all first year students are required to live on campus, unless they live with relatives in South Bend.
Maria - Pittsburgh, PA
This may be a silly question, but do all students really have to take PE? What do you do in it? (playing sports fulfilled my PE requirement hs, so i'm just curious...) also, i'm interested in pursuing a pre-med major; however, if i decide that i do not want to go on to become a doctor, are there a lot of opportunities for a career with only this degree? this question may be a bit premature at this stage, and i'm not sure if you can answer this, but i'm just wondering. thank you:)
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
Yes, PE is a requirement during your first year. It consists of six, four-week long rotations ranging from golf, weightlifting, fencing, to ballroom dancing. Two of those rotations are “Contemporary Topics”, a class which reviews healthy eating and sleeping habits, and ensuring that students are able to make a healthy transition between high school and college life.
The beauty of the academic structure here is that you are not bound to your intended major. In the First Year of Studies, you will take many core subjects which will count toward your graduation requirements. If at some point, you realize you would like to change your major, you have the freedom to change as many times as you’d like! You do not have to select your intended college until the end of your first year, and you have until the end of your second year to declare your major. You’re free to explore! As far as careers, there are several Career Fairs held during the year for the various colleges. Also, the Career Center does a wonderful job in assisting you with your future career path.
Nick - Houston, Texas
I would like to be part of the rowing or sailing team. Are there try-outs? Do they take novices?
ND Admissions
Hi Nick,
The men’s rowing team at Notre Dame is a club sport which holds tryouts each fall. I don’t know exactly who they will take, but I can tell you my roommate had never rowed before and made the team our sophomore year.
Tim - Schertz, TX
What would be the likelihood of a student being able to double major in two completely unrelated subjects, ie. science and music?
ND Admissions
Tim, This happens frequently at Notre Dame. It takes a bit of working to get the schedules and timeline down, but most of the departments are very open to cross-majoring.
Patrick - Little Rock, AR
Do most ND students study abroad at some point during their time at ND? If so, is there a significant change in tuition? Does the University help with some of the cost of studying abroad?
ND Admissions
Hi Patrick- More than half of the students at ND study abroad at some point in their career. You can study abroad either one semester, a whole year, or during a summer program. There is no change in tuiton if you study abroad during a semester, but there is an extra tuition if you participate in a summer program. All ND financial aid applies to study abroad, so if you already have financial aid, you’ll be ok. Check out the website for more details! Study Abroad
Allison - Ottawa, OH
Do most parents attend freshman orientation (I know that it is optional)? Where do they stay? Do they need to get a hotel room?
ND Admissions
Allison, yes, most parents do attend Orientation. They do need to reserve hotel rooms and there are many choices in the South Bend area.
Steven - Latham, NY
Do people generally contact their roomate before they leave to go to ND to coordinate who is bringing what?(ex:TV's, refridge, etc.)
ND Admissions
Hey Steven,
I would say the vast majority of students do contact their roommate before heading to ND in the fall. The Office of Residence Life gives out the e-mail addresses of all roommates, so it is very easy to make contact that way, but a lot of students, including myself, use facebook to make contact with a potential roommate. This contact makes it much easier to decide who is going to bring/purchase what, and makes the first meeting slightly less awkward.
Christopher - Houston, TX
It is hot here in Houston and have thought of waiting until I got to ND to buy my winter clothes...Is it easy for a freshman to get out and shop for clothes?
ND Admissions
Good question, Christopher. It would be very possible to buy winter clothes in South Bend. Although first-semester freshmen cannot have a car on campus, many upperclassmen are generous with offering rides. There is also a convenient bus service from campus to the most popular mall in town.
undecided - Anytown, USA
I am still trying to decide where I want to spend my next 4 years, i am leaning toward notre dame, but I am also considering UNC at chapel hill, i was wondering if anyone knows any distinct advantageous of ND
ND Admissions
There are a few distinct advantages to Notre Dame over UNC-Chapel Hill. The first that I would mention is the size difference, Notre Dame has an undergraduate population of about 8,000 students while UNC sits at roughly double that figure. Notre Dame is a school that is based in faith and if you are looking for a spiritually enriching education experience I would look towards Notre Dame. I also have to say that football Saturday’s in South Bend are above and beyond what you’ll find at UNC!
undecided - Anytown, USA
it says that ND is number one for students participating in intramural sports, what are they and are the teams made up of specific dorms? Also, how competitive are club teams?
ND Admissions
Hi Undecided,
There are over sixty intramural and club sports here at Notre Dame. Some, like interhall football, are pretty competitive and the teams may even be set through a tryouts process. However, others are more “fun” and “easygoing” and consist of teams of groups of friends playing together. A number of different sports and various levels of competition are represented in the intramural system.
Laura - Hamburg, NY
I am interested in Biomedical engineering i want to know if i can pursue that interest even though it is not a specified major
ND Admissions
Yes, there are a number of opportunities in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering for those interested in biomedical engineering.
Tricia - Cleveland, OH
Is it common for students to take classes at Saint Mary's that are not offered at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Hi Tricia,
Thanks for joining us tonight! It is not all that common for students to take classes at Saint Mary’s as many students will find courses offered at Notre Dame that will meet their interests and major requirements. However, there are instances where some students will find that Saint Mary’s offers courses that Notre Dame does not, a prime example are education courses. Notre Dame does not have an education major, so many students interested in education will take courses at Saint Mary’s while also taking courses towards their major at Notre Dame. It is also possible to take elective courses offered at Saint Mary’s. I hope that helps to answer your question!
Nick - Castle Rock, CO
How do you get a job on campus? Like being a tour guide or working in a library? Something that is laid back like that.
ND Admissions
Hey Nick -
If you have certain jobs in mind, I recommend that you start looking as soon as you get on campus. Most campus departments are eager to fill opening at the beginning of the academic year. If you have a certain interest, such as being a Tour Guide, go to that department and ask! In addition, keep an eye on Notre Dame’s Job Board, accessible from the Financial Aid website. While not an exhaustive list, it should provide a good starting point.
You will also notice that several departments actual recruit students at the beginning of the school year. So, keep an eye for that in LaFortune and other common areas.
Austen - The Woodlands, TX
I was wondering if the mens rowing team (crew) is able to help High School student gain admission to your University.
ND Admissions
Austen,
Thanks for your question! Our mens rowing team is a club sport at Notre Dame. Therefore, it is after being admitted to the University that students become involved with this sport. Good luck—Go Irish Crew!
