Chats » Regular Action Admitted Student Chat 2007/2008

The submission portion of our Online Chat for Regular Action Admitted Students is now closed. Answers will continue to be posted by our Admissions Staff until all questions have been addressed. Thank you all for your excitement and participation. We are excited about your interest in Notre Dame! For further clarification on any of these questions, or if new questions should arise, please do not hesitate to reference our website at admissions.nd.edu or contact our office via email (admissions@nd.edu ) or telephone (574-631-7505).


Christopher - Houston, TX

I am looking at an mechnical engineering major and was wondering if the dual degree major of ME and MBA is a wise choice? I ask this because some people have recommended going to work a couple of years before obtaining an MBA.

ND Admissions

The Notre Dame MBA Office would be best able to answer that questions, but I would say it really depends on the person and his/her personal preferences.

Steven - Latham, NY

Does the campus contain a store where you can get sundry items etc. without going into south bend?

ND Admissions

Hey Steven,

As far as sundry items go, the bookstore and the Huddle (located in the LaFortune Student Center) will be where you would want to go. The Huddle has food, office supplies, hygiene supplies, and the Bookstore contains a wider selection of office supplies, clothing items, and electronics.

Christopher - Houston, TX

What should an incoming freshman bring for the dorm room?

ND Admissions

Hi Christopher- The amount and type of stuff you bring to campus can vary. Some essentials include things like sheets, towels, hangers, etc. For things like that, you can check out Bed, Bath, & Beyond and similar stores- they’ll have “College Essentials” lists. Depending on your preferences, you can bring things like a TV, furniture, etc. Remember, most things can be purchased out here as well, so don’t worry about carting it all to ND.

Steven - Latham, NY

Does Notre Dame service your labtop when it has problems and is there a cost?

ND Admissions

Steven, Notre Dame’s Office of Information Technology does service laptops. The cost is not excessive for in-house repairs, but if they need to send the computer off to the company it will depend on how much your brand charges.

Jenn - Downingtown, PA

Hi! I was wondering about the dorm situations as in how many to a room. Are there quads with private bathrooms or just halls where the floor shares a bathroom? What dorms are typically two person versus three or four people to a room?

ND Admissions

Hey Jenn,

As far as room capacities go, it really depends on the dorm. I live in one of the newer dorms, which for first year students have doubles and three-room quads. As far as private bathrooms go, a very small percentage of rooms do have them, but they exist. These will generally be found in the older dorms, like Walsh, Farley, or Howard. These rooms will usually be swept up by upperclassmen, so first year students will most likely not have one of these rooms. In most dorms, the bathrooms are communal. Each dorm has a completely different layout, however, so if you visit this website: http://nd.edu/~orlh/halls/index.htm, you will find some helpful information about each residence hall.

Quan - Spring, TX

If we can't afford to go to Notre Dame, even with our financial aid package, are there other ways of obtaining scholarships to pay for college?

ND Admissions

If you are interested in pursuing non-Notre Dame outside scholarships, I recommend that you research local community organizations or your parents’ place of employment, as these can be sources of scholarships. In addition, try out www.finaid.org and www.fastweb.com, two sites that match students with scholarships.

Julie - Downey, CA

My son is an admitted student, but is considering waiting until graduate school to attend Notre Dame. What is the difference if any between the undergrad and graduate college experience at ND?

ND Admissions

Julie, The main difference that he will find is that you lose the residential experience of Notre Dame. Because we are such a close-knit campus the residence halls really serve as the hubs of Notre Dame life. While graduate students get a great education and some of the residential experience, they miss out on much of that.

William Dunckelman - Houma, LA

Does Notre Dame offer any academic scholarships, or is aid offered only in the form of student loans?

ND Admissions

Hi William,

Notre Dame offers scholarship assistance based upon financial need. We also administer employment and loan opportunities. Please visit our website at: http//financialaid.nd.edu

Claudio - Provo, UT

I am a transfer student and I was wondering if I can still applay to Notre Dame even when the deadlines are due on april 15th

ND Admissions

Hello Claudio,

The transfer application will be “live” for another week. If you hurry, you can still apply.

Reza - Fort Lauderdale, FL

I am very interested in entrepreneurship. I was wondering what sort of classes Notre Dame offers in entrepreneurship and if many in the student body are truly interested in this.

ND Admissions

Hi Reza-

Great question. I am currently a business student, so I can speak from experience. We have an organization in the Mendoza College of Business called the Gigot Center for Entrepreneurial Studies. They sponsor a major in the Management Department for Entrepreneurship. It’s an entire major tailored to people like you! Also, there are lots of programs and competitions, like the Venture Capital Competition, the Business Pitch Competition, and the Business Plan Competition that can be great learning opportunities for people interested in Entreprenuership. Here’s the link for the Gigot Center: http://www.nd.edu/~entrep/. Check it out!

Steven - Latham, NY

Are there any laptop requirements and do you need a specific model?

ND Admissions

Steven, most ND students use laptops. Our IT department will provide some guidance for incoming students.

Laura - Hamburg, NY

I know biomedical engineering is not an established major, but what opportunities does ND offer for students interested in this field?

ND Admissions

The Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering’s website touches a little on this. You can also look here for ways to contact them with your specific questions.

Ben - New York, NY

I've been getting a lot of mail about the Engineering Program at ND, because I said I was interested in engineering in my application. However, now I realize that I would rather study Business, how can I switch?

ND Admissions

Well, Ben, Notre Dame is very proud of its strong reputation in engineering, so I’m sure we had plenty of information to send you. When you receive your registration information from the First Year of Studies this summer, you can choose the area of interest you would like to pursue.

deborah - naples, fl

will my son have difficulties trying to form friendships since he is multiracial

ND Admissions

Hi Deborah,

Part of the reason why we call it a “Notre Dame family” is because we welcome all individuals, regardless of background. Notre Dame students are able to find their niche, whether it be in the dorms, in similar classes or majors, or in the many clubs and activities offered on campus. There are so many opportunities for individuals to meet other students with similar backgrounds or interests. Hopefully he will enter with an open mind and a willingness to explore what the campus has to offer.

Steven - Latham, NY

What is du lac and what are the exact requirements for maintaining a scholarship?

ND Admissions

Steve, duLac is a publication that contains academic and student life regulations. It is available on-line. Students maintain their scholarships as long as they make steady progress toward their degree and continue to demonstrate financial need.

Maria - Mishawaka, IN

What is dorm life like? Adjusting to new roommates?

ND Admissions

Hey Maria,

From my experience, dorm life on campus is a great support system. Since they are all single-sex, and the majority of students remain in the same dorm for their time spent on campus, the community feeling is very strong. Upperclassmen are very good at helping first-year students make the transition in the community. As far as adjusting to new roommates goes, it can be a bit daunting at first, but everyone I know has been able to adequately adjust and find their stride within their room. It’s all about compromise, but since every first year student is coming in to the situation without knowing their roommates, it becomes very easy to adjust because everyone is in the same boat.

Kevin - Great Falls, MT

Why should I choose Notre Dame over all my other choices. What sets it apart and makes it a good fit for a student.

ND Admissions

Kevin, What sets Notre Dame apart is that we are not just a school, but we truly are a family. The moment that you step on campus you are part of a 166 year tradition of excellence. Notre Dame approaches education as a holistic venture, not just a get-them-in, get-them-out kind of education. Your time at Notre Dame is one that is spent in the classroom, in the dorm, in the chapel, on the quads, in foreign nations, in soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and countless other places. All of it is geared towards making you a well rounded world citizen who will take the education you receive and use it to change the world. I hope that this helps.

Christopher - Houston, TX

What are the ice hockey opportunities at ND? Is it strictly varsity or JV? Or does ND have intramural ice hockey?

ND Admissions

Notre Dame has a huge intramural program, not only for hockey, but for all sports. We do have a varsity hockey team (which played in the National Championship Game this year), but each dorm usually puts together a team to compete against other dorms. There are a number of different opportunities to participate in a variety of club and intramural sports here on campus.

Jack - goshen, in

I understand that first year students have to take physical education. Exactly what is it? Is it like p.e. in high school, where the student do the activities that the instructors have set up for them? Or is it more open, where students can decide to participate in whatever activity or sport they enjoy?

ND Admissions

Hi Jack-

Yes, it’s true that all Freshmen must take 6 credits of PE (one class each semester). The way it’s organized is that first you must pass the swim test (it’s a quick couple of laps to prove you won’t drown). Then you have the opportunity to register for 3 “rotations” each semester. For these rotations, you can choose what activities you enjoy. There are some general classes like high school PE, but most are different. Some examples include American Ballroom Dancing, Rock Climbing, Health and Wellness, Handball, Golf, Self-defense, etc. You can pick either more phyical activities or more laid-back activities for your rotations.

Julie - Downey, CA

Where can students get details about engineering research done by university?

ND Admissions

You can find those answers here and here

Danielle - Las Vegas, NV

When do we find out who our roommate is?

ND Admissions

Danielle, You will likely hear about your roommate and dorm assignment in late July or early August.

Anonymous - Anytown, USA

Hello, I am looking for a clearer definition of "significant academic downturn." Of my six classes this semester, four of them will remain consistent or improve. The other two, an honors and AP class, will decline to C-C+ range. Does this merit consideration for a revocation of admission? Will one or two lower grades kill me? Or does one have to accumulate a slew of poor grades? I ask this so I don't put undue stress upon myself for the rest of the semester and worry through the early summer months. I want to enjoy my admission and look forward to the college experience. I'm sure others are looking for clarification as well.

ND Admissions

Dear Anonymous,

I think there are several relevant issues within your question. While we would not revoke admission for two C grades, we would be concerned if these grades were part of a pattern of reduced academic effort. Students often think they can regain their academic momentum once they arrive at ND, but our experience tells us otherwise. If we are concerned about a downward trend, we will contact the student and ask for a written explanation. So keep studying!

Rick - Port Colborne, Ontario Canada

Will the course guidebook be sent to students as a hard copy or only available online?

ND Admissions

Rick, a copy of the Academic Guide will be mailed to all incoming students in early June. It will be posted on-line shortly thereafter.

Steven - Latham, NY

Do you need to bring a PC or laptop printer and if you don't does it cost any money for printing?

ND Admissions

Steven,

A printer is not necessary, in fact, I don’t have one myself. That is because the University allots $100.00 of printing quota per student (at 10 cents per page), totaling to 1,000 pages. This is usually sufficient for most students, but if you are worried, you can always add pages to your quota once you arrive, or you can simply bring your own printer.

Andrew - Lorton, VA

In the "Experience Engineering" flyer from the College of Engineering, the "Bits to Chips" program is mentioned on page 19. How would you relate this program to studying a double major in computer engineering and electrical engineering at another undergraduate university?

ND Admissions

It’s been a while since I studied engineering, but I can say that as a computer science major there were quite a few classes that the EE’s took as well. I can’t accurately relate this experience to double majoring in CE and EE at another university. I’m sure the College of Engineering will have the answer to that. You can email them here

evan adamson - downey, CA

how hard is it to get into notre dame's graduate school?

ND Admissions

Hi Evan,

It really just depends on the program to which you are applying. Most of the schools or programs do not give special preference to Notre Dame graduates, though that depends on the individual program.

Laura - Hamburg, NY

Considering there isn't much in South Bend, how are internship opportunities for students, especially in the pre-med area?

ND Admissions

Hi Laura,

Many students interested in medical school take part in internships at two hospitals in the area. Additionally, some students participate in internships when they go home over the summer.

Qingchuan - Beijing,

If I am enrolled at College of Arts and Letters, can I take courses at Mendoza College of Business, and what are the requirement for transferring into Mendoza College of Business? Thank you very much

ND Admissions

Qu ingchuan,you will have your entire first year at ND to decide which College to enter. Arts and Letters students have limited access to Business courses in their final two years.

Tatiana - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, RJ

How easy is it to get a part time job on campus if I didn't apply for financial aid? Does anyone get a job off campus, it is easy or 'doable'? Thank you (:

ND Admissions

Yes it is possible to get a part time job on campus even if you did not apply for financial aid. Some students will get a job off campus. Typically, though, they find that working on campus is more convenient and conducive to their schedule.

Tricia - Cleveland, OH

What percentage of premed students are accepted into med school?

ND Admissions

Hi Tricia,

Approximately 85% of students who apply to medical school are accepted. Some of these students are not necessarily in the Pre-Professional majors.

Tricia - Cleveland, OH

Being a larger university, what kind of undergraduate/premed advising do you offer?

ND Admissions

Tricia, all new students at ND have a First Year advisor who will assist you during your entire freshman year. In, April, you will confirm your choice of program and acquire an advisor from your chosen academic department. We have several advisors who specialize in working with pre-med students and they have plenty of experience.

Laura - Hamburg, NY

what is there to do in South Bend off-campus?

ND Admissions

Hi Laura! South Bend is a great city. I won’t pretend that it’s as exciting as a bigger city, but there are many things to do. There are movie theaters, bowling alleys, restaurants, and other typical hang-out spots. There is the University Park Mall, which has a pretty good selection of stores. There is also the Morris Performing Arts Center, which boasts many big-name acts as well. Also remember that becuase ND is not a commuter school, there are TONS of things to do on campus. South Bend is a great alternative as well!

Quan - Spring, TX

I want to appeal or discuss my financial aid package; is there a way I can have a one-on-one session tonight for my financial aid?

ND Admissions

Quan, The web chat is not intended for the discussion of specific financial aid questions. I would suggest that you contact the Financial Aid Office directly. The office is open from 8 – 5 (eastern) and the phone number is 574-631-6436. The email is finaid@nd.edu. To appeal a financial aid award, you must provide specific information and documentation regarding the basis of your appeal.

Steven - Latham, NY

Are there any student discounts at the bookstore?

ND Admissions

Steven,

Unfortunately, there is not student discount at the bookstore, however one week every year, the bookstore has a Student Appreciation Week of sorts, and does offer all merchandise discounted with a valid student ID.

Rachel - Fort Worth, TX

Hi! I'm interested in vocal performance, but not as a major. I know there are lots of choirs and things on campus and I'd love to be a part. How would I go about auditioning and all of that once I get to Notre Dame?

ND Admissions

Rachel, All of the choirs have auditions during orientation weekend. You can choose to audition for just a specific choir, or for all of the choirs at once. I would recommend joining the Folk Choir (I’m a bit biased, as this is my choir!!), but all of the choirs bring a different dimension to student life.

Adrianne - Seguin, TX

Just a side question, Are there any Panda Express restaurants?

ND Admissions

Hi Adrianne,

Yes! We have a Panda Express in the mall, which is about 10 min away from campus.

Stefany - ,

I was wondering if it is possible to still be able to recieve some financial help at this stage?

ND Admissions

Stefany,

The priority deadline for financial aid ha passed, but you may still complete the required financial aid applications. We will consider your applications based upon the availability of scholarship funds. You are still able to apply for federal and private loans. The application requirements are available on our website http://financialaid.nd.edu

Steven - Latham, NY

Does the campus run a shuttle to South Bend airport and is there a cost?

ND Admissions

Unfortunately, there isn’t a shuttle that goes directly to the airport. You can take a taxi, but more than likely a friend or dormmate will be able to take you.

Michelle - Arcadia, Ca

Is everyone interested in what everyone else is studying? Do people share information and talk interdepartmentally?

ND Admissions

Hi Michelle! Students on campus tend to share information pretty freely. I’d share information with my friends, people within my major, and people in other classes. People are very supportive and would listen to whatever you wanted to share. Because campus life is not seperated by class or college, students can share stories and information with people from other departments and majors very freely.

Michael - Ardmore, OK

One of my hobbies that I am very interested in is guitar playing, but I do not plan on taking any music or band classes. Are there any clubs or organizations where I can practice or play music with other people or would I have to organize that on my own? Also, if there is a club or organization, would they provide the equipment or would I need to bring my own?

ND Admissions

Michael,

There are definitely plenty of musical outlets here on campus if that is what you are looking for. There are clubs and organizations that exist on campus that provide outlets for people with musical inclinations. The student activities organization also sponsors different events for student performers to play called “AcoustiCafe” and the on campus club, Legends, also has venues for student musicians including a battle of the bands. As far as providing instruments, I would say the vast majority of my friends who play instruments have brought their own, because clubs and school-sponsored groups might get tricky about loaning them out for extended periods of time, so if possible, I would recommend bringing one.