Chats » Prospective Student Chat 2008/2009
Cayla - Dania Beach, FL
Does Notre Dame have any annual festivals for Music majors?
ND Admissions
I believe there is a jazz festival every year. And I would assume that other ones would be offered as well. Also the DPAC (Debartolo Performing Arts Center) brings a variety of talented performers/performances throughout the year, ranging from Gaelic Storm, Tiempo Libre, to Ravi Shankar.
Katelyn - Chicago, il
More of a personal question...was ND your first choice?
ND Admissions
Honestly, no. My first choice was too far from home for my mother, so she didn’t let me go, even though I was accepted. I love being a Notre Dame, though. I can’t imagine feeling more at home anywhere else, and I’m very happy that I decided to come.
Sam - Abilene, TX
For school purposes, which is better... a PC or Mac laptop?
ND Admissions
That question can vary a bit by major. Some students in the design program may prefer a Mac. Visit Office of Information Technologies
Christopher - Solomons, MD
I recently drove this past weekend from Maryland to visit Notre Dame and fell in love with it. There was no other place I'd rather be; however, the competitive nature of the admissions process made me uneasy. I feel I have a strong application in all but one area, which is my grades. My freshman and sophomore year grades were average, giving me about a 3.6 gpa for both years, because I did not see school as a priority. My junior and current senior year, however, I realized my education is precious and started focusing and working hard. So far, from these two years, my gpa is about a 3.94. My question is as follows: Does the fact that I only preformed satisfactory in the beginning of high school become detrimental to my chances of acceptance, despite the obvious potential I carried out in the latter years of high school? Do you look more closely at any particular year? Do you look for signs of maturity such as this on an application and take it into consideration?
Thank you.
Sorry for the length.
ND Admissions
Christopher, we look at everything in your application. We pay attention to the details and will do the best we can to give you the benefit of the doubt.
Will - Traverse City, MI
How does the admissions staff view additional matieral (letters, personal statement, resume, ect.) sent by the counsulor?
ND Admissions
Hi Will- We wil consider all of the items you mention. In many cases they provide information that “fills in the blanks” around the application. This items provide the more subjective kinds of information for us.
Cara - West Simsbury, CT
I am interested in majoring in marine biology. How can Notre Dame prepare me for a future in this field? Are there any study abroad opportunities or summer marine life experiences that ND students can take part in to add to their studies in biology there?
ND Admissions
There are great research areas, such as UNDERC, in the biology area, where ND has special programs, mostly occurring in the summer. Professors are always looking for undergraduate research assistants, which are great opportunities to help prepare you in any field.
Michelle - Wayland, MA
Do you feel that there is more of a conservative or liberal presents at ND?
ND Admissions
Michelle, Notre Dame, being a Catholic school, probably leans toward the conservative end of the spectrum. However, we are proud of being a place for everybody to live and study.
Jacob - Belen, NM
What is the Hispanic population like at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Hi Jacob,
The Hispanic population is the largest group of our ethnic minorities. There are various clubs and organizations celebrating the Hispanic cultures. Additionally, we have an excellent Institute for Latino Studies for all students interested in studying the Hispanic culture and current issues affecting their population.
Alexis - Butler, IN
Is the cost of Notre Dame worth an education there? Does it factor in to job payment and security?
ND Admissions
We find that Notre Dame graduates have excellent job opportunities with companies nationwide, and that the cost of the education is worth it to have those opportunities. Visit the Career Center
Stephanie - South Elgin, IL
What sort of theater programs are available for non-theater majors?
ND Admissions
Yes! There is a student group called PEMCo which puts on various theatrical productions throughout the year. Also, each year FTT (Film Television Theatre) Majors put on one acts and they are always looking for students to participate. There are other opportunities throughout the year for students to participate, like the opera that is produced every spring semester.
Nick - Hebron, CT
Hello again! I was wondering if there is any type of curfew for students in the residence halls and if yes, what are they?
ND Admissions
ND does have parietals in which members of the opposite sex must be out of the dorm by 12am Sunday through Thursday and 2am Friday and Saturday. This expires at 9am. However, there are 24 hour areas in every dorm, so if you are studying with friends, you can always use that after parietals. But you are able to come and go from your own dorm at any hour.
Grace - Maple Glen, PA
I saw that there are chapels in the basements of some dorm halls. Is Mass said there regularly?
ND Admissions
We offer daily mass for students who wish to participate.
Zachary - Lees Summit, MO
Are there classes available in 3D Animation?
ND Admissions
Hi Zachary,
I suggest that you contact the Art Department or the Film, Television, and Theatre Department to find out about classes in 3D Animation.
Sasha - NY, NY
Do all of the choral programs at ND require auditions?
ND Admissions
Yes all the choral programs require auditions; however, there are a variety of choirs on campus depending on your interests. Some are student led whereas others are university led and the auditions can vary between them. For the university choirs there is one audition and then you rank your interest in those choirs and get placed in one of them. You can also get involved in your residence hall choir which sings at mass on Sunday nights in the hall.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
How many students in the current freshman class have an undecided major?
ND Admissions
We encourage students to choose a major when they apply. All students will take courses in math, science, English, and history during their first year, regardless of major. This gives any students who have not narrowed down their major to take a well rounded group of courses,
Eric - Davison, MI
What's the average time to walk to a class?
ND Admissions
How fast do you walk? Which classes are we talking about? How cold is it? Do you get caught behind a crowd of people? Do ducks or squirrels decide to walk across your path? But actually, average time is probably a little under ten minutes. There are fifteen minutes between classes, which IS enough time to get from the farthest classroom building on one end of campus to the farthest on the other. I speak from experience. Both east to west and north to south.
Catherine - Vancouver, BC, Canada
How is the English program at ND? What percentage of students are International students?
ND Admissions
About 3% of our undergraduate students do not hold a US Passport or Permanent Resident Card, though we look to increase that number considerably over the coming years.
Katelyn - Chicago, il
Does attending summer programs help in the admissions process?
ND Admissions
Katelyn, attending ND summer programs does not give a student an advantage. We do value the experience gained, though.
Maria - Nashville, TN
I was just wondering if you guys accept the TOEFL test? If you guys do, does taking that test make the applicant look "weaker", because of the language issue, or is it just better to submit ACT scores?
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
If English is not your first language, we require you to take the TOEFL as part of your application. The higher you score, the better you look, so don’t worry about it making you look weaker.
We can waive the TOEFL if you score above a 600 on the Critical Reading section of the SAT I.
Brad - Bryan, OH
What is the policy for student tickets at athletic events?
ND Admissions
All students are guaranteed season tickets to home football and varsity men’s basketball games. Those are the only athletic events that charge students for tickets. All other athletic events are free to the student body.
Sean - Pennington, NJ
I have a sister at ND, Jill. I love you Jilly. Does this increase my chances of getting in to ND?
ND Admissions
Jilly isn’t here right now, but we’re pretty sure she loves you too.
On your application, there is a place to put your siblings and where they are going to school, though this will have no influence over your admissions decision.
Kathryn - Northport, NY
I was interested in participating in the special education program through Saint Mary's College. If this is what I am interested in, what should I put as my intended major on my application? Also, where can I obtain more information about doing this through Saint Mary's?
ND Admissions
Kathryn, you still need to indicate a major of choice at ND. You can look here for more info: http://www3.saintmarys.edu/education-nd-student.
Drew - Hudson, MA
Does Notre Dame look more at overall performance or performance in classes that are applicable to a desired major for admissions?
ND Admissions
The Admissions departments looks closely at performance in rigorous coursework, especially in core academic subject areas of math, science, English, foreign language, and history.
James - Basking Ridge, NJ
I know according to the Business Week Top Undergrad Business Schools, The Mendoza School Of Business is ranked #3 in the Nation. Why do you believe it was ranked #3? And is the Mendoza School of Business a three or four year program?
ND Admissions
The Mendoza School of Business offers a variety of majors including Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management (Consulting, Entrepreneurship, and Information Technology). They bring in many successful business men and women to to give lectures and seminars. The technology and resources available are cutting edge. Also, the average salary of an graduate of the Mendoza School of Business ranges from $46,047-$56,801 in 2007. It is a four year program that apparently prepares you extremely well for the business world. Go Irish!
Samantha - Harrisonburg, LA
What are the crime statistics?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is protected by its own police force, NDSP. They patrol campus 24 hours a day, on foot, bike, car, and segway. Blue safety lights can be found around the perimeter of campus and NDSP has a impeccable response time. The residence halls are only accessible with Notre Dame ID cards and there are plans in place to protect students in emergencies. I think the biggest testament to safety on campus is the willingness of students to leave their belongings in public places, because we know they will be there when we return.
Mike - Belleville, IL
What are the results of ND Men's Cross Country races? Can you show me where I could find these results?
ND Admissions
Mike, you can find it at www.und.com.
Hilary - Fayetteville, Nc
Will having a high weighted GPA but a lower unweighted hurt my chances? Which GPA is looked at more, the weighted or unweighted?
ND Admissions
Hi Hilary,
We’ll look at your entire transcript while reviewing your application. We’ll see both your weighted and unweighted, but we’ll take everything (rigor of courses, transcript, standardized tests, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and personal statements) into account. A high weighted, but lower unweighted will not necessarily hurt your chances.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
What career-related services are offered to ND students as they approach graduation?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has a great career center that holds many career fairs throughout the years in various departments. They also help you with resume preparation, interview preparation, and general finding a job or internship. These services are available to all students at the university, regardless of grade level.
Paola - The Woodlands, TX
Hi! I'm an avid artist, and even though I'm not planning on majoring in art I would love to take courses along the way. Could you tell me a little about the strengths of your art department? Can all students utilize studios? Should I send in a CD of art pieces along with my application?
ND Admissions
Our art department offers classes in ceramics, sketching, photography, sculpture, printmaking, many art history courses, and graphic and industrial design. Many of the courses are able to be taken even if you are not an art major, especially the ceramics, drawing, and photography courses. These are very popular among students and are often some of their most enjoyable.
Nikki - Naperville, IL
On the Common Application, there is a section to write an essay. Would that be an addition to the essay that is included in the Supplement application?
ND Admissions
Yes, Nikki, you must complete both the essay in the Common Application proper and the essay in the Notre Dame Supplement. Each must be a minimum of 250 words (about one page). Thanks for joining us this evening.
Keara - Tucson, AZ
I understand that ND does not offer arch. engineering as a major, but would it be possible "create" this type of major since you have both an architecture and engineering program?
ND Admissions
Hi Keara,
The architecture and engineering programs are probably the two most intense programs here at ND. While anything is possible with the help of your advisor and different departments, it’s probably unlikely that you will be able to do something like this.
You might want to discuss the situation with the School of Architecture-they would be able to give you much more specific information than me!
Brandon - San Antonio, TX
How strong is the core curriculum as far as forming a comprehensive liberal arts education
ND Admissions
Hi Brandon,
Our curriculum is designed in a way that our students receive a broad liberal arts education, with the opportunity and resources for research during their four years at Notre Dame. Through our First Year of Studies, students have the opportunity to take university requirements in various core subjects. While students eventually do specialize in their selected majors, they begin with a core curriculum in their first year.
Nick Kurtenbach - Oakland Twp., MI
Doe ND support Early Decision Appliactions
ND Admissions
We have an early action program, not early decision. Early Action at Notre Dame is Non-binding.
Adam - Brighton, MI
Do you convert weighted GPS's back into a 4.0 scale?
ND Admissions
Adam, well, it depends on whether you have Garmin or Tom Tom or Magellen GPS units. You can find us using latitude and longitude as well. If you meant GPA – no we don’t convert or reweigh.
Woo-jae - Jakarta, Indonesia,
I have taken SAT 1 once in June and I am scheduled to take it once more in this coming 4th October. I am also scheduled to take three SAT 2 in November. Is it advisable for me to apply for early action considering that all my other factors are competent? I really can't stand to wait so long!!! I want to find out about my admission as soon as possible. :)
ND Admissions
You may want to consider regular action, to ensure that we will see the SAT II exams.
dayna - Frankfort, Illinois
What % of students live on campus?
ND Admissions
80% of Notre Dame undergraduates live in the Residence Halls.
Jackie - Windsor, CT
I play HS hockey and understand you don't have women's hockey. Is there a club program or an intermural program for women? If a club program exists, what is required to make the team? Any chance of gettting a varsity team for women's hockey?
ND Admissions
Yes there is a Women’s Hockey club! They travel throughout the midwest competing and is a very fun and competitive club. I am not sure of the requirements to get on the team but you can contact Margaret Knoedler mknoedle@nd.edu for specific information. Unfortunately there is probably not much of a chance for a varsity women’s hockey team in the near future. Also here is the women’s hockey club’s website http://www.nd.edu/~whockey.
Erin - Islandia, NY
how many students come from catholic or "small" high schools campared to public schools? Does your high school make a difference?
ND Admissions
Erin, about 50% of our students come from public schools, 40% Catholic schools and 10% other private schools. Where you attend high school does not make a difference. Do the best you can and we’ll go from there.
Leslie - Florence, SC
Is the Handbell Choir easy to join? I have played in the one at my church for 6 years now, and I would love to continue.
ND Admissions
Yes! They are looking for new people every year, and I believe most of the people in it have usually never played before coming to ND.
David - Sylvania, Ohio
I've heard that Notre Dame has an incredibly competitive intramural football program. could you explain a little more about it?
ND Admissions
We actually have one of two programs in the US that is full pad and full contact! Each dorm fields a team, with the league’s championship game being played in ND Stadium. It’s a huge matter of pride for each dorm!
The ladies also field football teams-flag football teams-and they, too, get competitive. It’s Notre Dame-football is a big thing here!
Cayla - Dania Beach, FL
Does Notre Dame have any annual festivals for Music majors?
ND Admissions
I believe there is a jazz festival every year. And I would assume that other ones would be offered as well. Also the DPAC (Debartolo Performing Arts Center) brings a variety of talented performers/performances throughout the year, ranging from Gaelic Storm, Tiempo Libre, to Ravi Shankar.
Katelyn - Chicago, il
More of a personal question...was ND your first choice?
ND Admissions
Honestly, no. My first choice was too far from home for my mother, so she didn’t let me go, even though I was accepted. I love being a Notre Dame, though. I can’t imagine feeling more at home anywhere else, and I’m very happy that I decided to come.
Sam - Abilene, TX
For school purposes, which is better... a PC or Mac laptop?
ND Admissions
That question can vary a bit by major. Some students in the design program may prefer a Mac. Visit Office of Information Technologies
Christopher - Solomons, MD
I recently drove this past weekend from Maryland to visit Notre Dame and fell in love with it. There was no other place I'd rather be; however, the competitive nature of the admissions process made me uneasy. I feel I have a strong application in all but one area, which is my grades. My freshman and sophomore year grades were average, giving me about a 3.6 gpa for both years, because I did not see school as a priority. My junior and current senior year, however, I realized my education is precious and started focusing and working hard. So far, from these two years, my gpa is about a 3.94. My question is as follows: Does the fact that I only preformed satisfactory in the beginning of high school become detrimental to my chances of acceptance, despite the obvious potential I carried out in the latter years of high school? Do you look more closely at any particular year? Do you look for signs of maturity such as this on an application and take it into consideration? Thank you. Sorry for the length.
ND Admissions
Christopher, we look at everything in your application. We pay attention to the details and will do the best we can to give you the benefit of the doubt.
Will - Traverse City, MI
How does the admissions staff view additional matieral (letters, personal statement, resume, ect.) sent by the counsulor?
ND Admissions
Hi Will- We wil consider all of the items you mention. In many cases they provide information that “fills in the blanks” around the application. This items provide the more subjective kinds of information for us.
Cara - West Simsbury, CT
I am interested in majoring in marine biology. How can Notre Dame prepare me for a future in this field? Are there any study abroad opportunities or summer marine life experiences that ND students can take part in to add to their studies in biology there?
ND Admissions
There are great research areas, such as UNDERC, in the biology area, where ND has special programs, mostly occurring in the summer. Professors are always looking for undergraduate research assistants, which are great opportunities to help prepare you in any field.
Michelle - Wayland, MA
Do you feel that there is more of a conservative or liberal presents at ND?
ND Admissions
Michelle, Notre Dame, being a Catholic school, probably leans toward the conservative end of the spectrum. However, we are proud of being a place for everybody to live and study.
Jacob - Belen, NM
What is the Hispanic population like at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Hi Jacob,
The Hispanic population is the largest group of our ethnic minorities. There are various clubs and organizations celebrating the Hispanic cultures. Additionally, we have an excellent Institute for Latino Studies for all students interested in studying the Hispanic culture and current issues affecting their population.
Alexis - Butler, IN
Is the cost of Notre Dame worth an education there? Does it factor in to job payment and security?
ND Admissions
We find that Notre Dame graduates have excellent job opportunities with companies nationwide, and that the cost of the education is worth it to have those opportunities. Visit the Career Center
Stephanie - South Elgin, IL
What sort of theater programs are available for non-theater majors?
ND Admissions
Yes! There is a student group called PEMCo which puts on various theatrical productions throughout the year. Also, each year FTT (Film Television Theatre) Majors put on one acts and they are always looking for students to participate. There are other opportunities throughout the year for students to participate, like the opera that is produced every spring semester.
Nick - Hebron, CT
Hello again! I was wondering if there is any type of curfew for students in the residence halls and if yes, what are they?
ND Admissions
ND does have parietals in which members of the opposite sex must be out of the dorm by 12am Sunday through Thursday and 2am Friday and Saturday. This expires at 9am. However, there are 24 hour areas in every dorm, so if you are studying with friends, you can always use that after parietals. But you are able to come and go from your own dorm at any hour.
Grace - Maple Glen, PA
I saw that there are chapels in the basements of some dorm halls. Is Mass said there regularly?
ND Admissions
We offer daily mass for students who wish to participate.
Zachary - Lees Summit, MO
Are there classes available in 3D Animation?
ND Admissions
Hi Zachary,
I suggest that you contact the Art Department or the Film, Television, and Theatre Department to find out about classes in 3D Animation.
Sasha - NY, NY
Do all of the choral programs at ND require auditions?
ND Admissions
Yes all the choral programs require auditions; however, there are a variety of choirs on campus depending on your interests. Some are student led whereas others are university led and the auditions can vary between them. For the university choirs there is one audition and then you rank your interest in those choirs and get placed in one of them. You can also get involved in your residence hall choir which sings at mass on Sunday nights in the hall.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
How many students in the current freshman class have an undecided major?
ND Admissions
We encourage students to choose a major when they apply. All students will take courses in math, science, English, and history during their first year, regardless of major. This gives any students who have not narrowed down their major to take a well rounded group of courses,
Eric - Davison, MI
What's the average time to walk to a class?
ND Admissions
How fast do you walk? Which classes are we talking about? How cold is it? Do you get caught behind a crowd of people? Do ducks or squirrels decide to walk across your path? But actually, average time is probably a little under ten minutes. There are fifteen minutes between classes, which IS enough time to get from the farthest classroom building on one end of campus to the farthest on the other. I speak from experience. Both east to west and north to south.
Catherine - Vancouver, BC, Canada
How is the English program at ND? What percentage of students are International students?
ND Admissions
About 3% of our undergraduate students do not hold a US Passport or Permanent Resident Card, though we look to increase that number considerably over the coming years.
Katelyn - Chicago, il
Does attending summer programs help in the admissions process?
ND Admissions
Katelyn, attending ND summer programs does not give a student an advantage. We do value the experience gained, though.
Maria - Nashville, TN
I was just wondering if you guys accept the TOEFL test? If you guys do, does taking that test make the applicant look "weaker", because of the language issue, or is it just better to submit ACT scores?
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
If English is not your first language, we require you to take the TOEFL as part of your application. The higher you score, the better you look, so don’t worry about it making you look weaker.
We can waive the TOEFL if you score above a 600 on the Critical Reading section of the SAT I.
Brad - Bryan, OH
What is the policy for student tickets at athletic events?
ND Admissions
All students are guaranteed season tickets to home football and varsity men’s basketball games. Those are the only athletic events that charge students for tickets. All other athletic events are free to the student body.
Sean - Pennington, NJ
I have a sister at ND, Jill. I love you Jilly. Does this increase my chances of getting in to ND?
ND Admissions
Jilly isn’t here right now, but we’re pretty sure she loves you too.
On your application, there is a place to put your siblings and where they are going to school, though this will have no influence over your admissions decision.
Kathryn - Northport, NY
I was interested in participating in the special education program through Saint Mary's College. If this is what I am interested in, what should I put as my intended major on my application? Also, where can I obtain more information about doing this through Saint Mary's?
ND Admissions
Kathryn, you still need to indicate a major of choice at ND. You can look here for more info: http://www3.saintmarys.edu/education-nd-student.
Drew - Hudson, MA
Does Notre Dame look more at overall performance or performance in classes that are applicable to a desired major for admissions?
ND Admissions
The Admissions departments looks closely at performance in rigorous coursework, especially in core academic subject areas of math, science, English, foreign language, and history.
James - Basking Ridge, NJ
I know according to the Business Week Top Undergrad Business Schools, The Mendoza School Of Business is ranked #3 in the Nation. Why do you believe it was ranked #3? And is the Mendoza School of Business a three or four year program?
ND Admissions
The Mendoza School of Business offers a variety of majors including Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management (Consulting, Entrepreneurship, and Information Technology). They bring in many successful business men and women to to give lectures and seminars. The technology and resources available are cutting edge. Also, the average salary of an graduate of the Mendoza School of Business ranges from $46,047-$56,801 in 2007. It is a four year program that apparently prepares you extremely well for the business world. Go Irish!
Samantha - Harrisonburg, LA
What are the crime statistics?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is protected by its own police force, NDSP. They patrol campus 24 hours a day, on foot, bike, car, and segway. Blue safety lights can be found around the perimeter of campus and NDSP has a impeccable response time. The residence halls are only accessible with Notre Dame ID cards and there are plans in place to protect students in emergencies. I think the biggest testament to safety on campus is the willingness of students to leave their belongings in public places, because we know they will be there when we return.
Mike - Belleville, IL
What are the results of ND Men's Cross Country races? Can you show me where I could find these results?
ND Admissions
Mike, you can find it at www.und.com.
Hilary - Fayetteville, Nc
Will having a high weighted GPA but a lower unweighted hurt my chances? Which GPA is looked at more, the weighted or unweighted?
ND Admissions
Hi Hilary,
We’ll look at your entire transcript while reviewing your application. We’ll see both your weighted and unweighted, but we’ll take everything (rigor of courses, transcript, standardized tests, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and personal statements) into account. A high weighted, but lower unweighted will not necessarily hurt your chances.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
What career-related services are offered to ND students as they approach graduation?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has a great career center that holds many career fairs throughout the years in various departments. They also help you with resume preparation, interview preparation, and general finding a job or internship. These services are available to all students at the university, regardless of grade level.
Paola - The Woodlands, TX
Hi! I'm an avid artist, and even though I'm not planning on majoring in art I would love to take courses along the way. Could you tell me a little about the strengths of your art department? Can all students utilize studios? Should I send in a CD of art pieces along with my application?
ND Admissions
Our art department offers classes in ceramics, sketching, photography, sculpture, printmaking, many art history courses, and graphic and industrial design. Many of the courses are able to be taken even if you are not an art major, especially the ceramics, drawing, and photography courses. These are very popular among students and are often some of their most enjoyable.
Nikki - Naperville, IL
On the Common Application, there is a section to write an essay. Would that be an addition to the essay that is included in the Supplement application?
ND Admissions
Yes, Nikki, you must complete both the essay in the Common Application proper and the essay in the Notre Dame Supplement. Each must be a minimum of 250 words (about one page). Thanks for joining us this evening.
Keara - Tucson, AZ
I understand that ND does not offer arch. engineering as a major, but would it be possible "create" this type of major since you have both an architecture and engineering program?
ND Admissions
Hi Keara,
The architecture and engineering programs are probably the two most intense programs here at ND. While anything is possible with the help of your advisor and different departments, it’s probably unlikely that you will be able to do something like this.
You might want to discuss the situation with the School of Architecture-they would be able to give you much more specific information than me!
Brandon - San Antonio, TX
How strong is the core curriculum as far as forming a comprehensive liberal arts education
ND Admissions
Hi Brandon,
Our curriculum is designed in a way that our students receive a broad liberal arts education, with the opportunity and resources for research during their four years at Notre Dame. Through our First Year of Studies, students have the opportunity to take university requirements in various core subjects. While students eventually do specialize in their selected majors, they begin with a core curriculum in their first year.
Nick Kurtenbach - Oakland Twp., MI
Doe ND support Early Decision Appliactions
ND Admissions
We have an early action program, not early decision. Early Action at Notre Dame is Non-binding.
Adam - Brighton, MI
Do you convert weighted GPS's back into a 4.0 scale?
ND Admissions
Adam, well, it depends on whether you have Garmin or Tom Tom or Magellen GPS units. You can find us using latitude and longitude as well. If you meant GPA – no we don’t convert or reweigh.
Woo-jae - Jakarta, Indonesia,
I have taken SAT 1 once in June and I am scheduled to take it once more in this coming 4th October. I am also scheduled to take three SAT 2 in November. Is it advisable for me to apply for early action considering that all my other factors are competent? I really can't stand to wait so long!!! I want to find out about my admission as soon as possible. :)
ND Admissions
You may want to consider regular action, to ensure that we will see the SAT II exams.
dayna - Frankfort, Illinois
What % of students live on campus?
ND Admissions
80% of Notre Dame undergraduates live in the Residence Halls.
Jackie - Windsor, CT
I play HS hockey and understand you don't have women's hockey. Is there a club program or an intermural program for women? If a club program exists, what is required to make the team? Any chance of gettting a varsity team for women's hockey?
ND Admissions
Yes there is a Women’s Hockey club! They travel throughout the midwest competing and is a very fun and competitive club. I am not sure of the requirements to get on the team but you can contact Margaret Knoedler mknoedle@nd.edu for specific information. Unfortunately there is probably not much of a chance for a varsity women’s hockey team in the near future. Also here is the women’s hockey club’s website http://www.nd.edu/~whockey.
Erin - Islandia, NY
how many students come from catholic or "small" high schools campared to public schools? Does your high school make a difference?
ND Admissions
Erin, about 50% of our students come from public schools, 40% Catholic schools and 10% other private schools. Where you attend high school does not make a difference. Do the best you can and we’ll go from there.
Leslie - Florence, SC
Is the Handbell Choir easy to join? I have played in the one at my church for 6 years now, and I would love to continue.
ND Admissions
Yes! They are looking for new people every year, and I believe most of the people in it have usually never played before coming to ND.
David - Sylvania, Ohio
I've heard that Notre Dame has an incredibly competitive intramural football program. could you explain a little more about it?
ND Admissions
We actually have one of two programs in the US that is full pad and full contact! Each dorm fields a team, with the league’s championship game being played in ND Stadium. It’s a huge matter of pride for each dorm!
The ladies also field football teams-flag football teams-and they, too, get competitive. It’s Notre Dame-football is a big thing here!
