Chats » Prospective Student Chat 2008/2009
michelle - toronto, ontario
thanks, if i'm only in one club my senior year, but have been in many clubs from my freshman to my junior year, does it look bad? it's only because i moved..
ND Admissions
Hi Michelle,
Each individual case is different, but we understand that, after moving, it’s probably difficult to get involved in a number of activities and programs. Don’t worry—we won’t let moving negatively affect your application!
Anthony - Bentonville, AR
How diverse is ND student body?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is constantly working to promote diversity among its student body. Students come from a wide variety of racial, ethnic, religious, socio-economic, and political backgrounds.
Andrew - South Bend, IN
I'm a member of the National Honor Society. Will this increase my chances of being accepted?
ND Admissions
Generallay students in NHS have strong GPAs and a great commitment to service, two positive factors in the admissions process.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
What percentage of the ND student body is Catholic?
ND Admissions
Liz, our student body is between 80-85% Catholic.
Greg - Youngstown, Ohio
I'm positive of my choice to major in architecture and I went to the career discovery program this summer. How many students are admitted into the architecture program each year?
ND Admissions
There are close to 200 total Architecture students at the University.
Josh - San Antonio, TX
If one wanted to learn to play the cello or violin are there resources for that or are the resources limited to the orchestra?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame offers individual music lessons for most instruments.
Alexandra - Portland, OR
I have decided that I really want to major in film with an emphasis on animation (if possible). Are there any supplementary classes that deal specifically with animation?
ND Admissions
Hi Alexandra,
I suggest that you contact the Film, Television, and Theatre Department to learn about specific courses in animation.
Phone: (574) 631-7054
Samuel - Clermont, Florida
how much money does Notre Dame offer for "class" projects
ND Admissions
If there is a specific class project or research project that you would like to undertake, there are many different programs for funding that different areas of the university offers. The best way to do this, is to find a professor to advise you in your project and they typically can direct you to good funding opportunities.
Terry - Hillsdale, NJ
When you talk about our Personal statement are you refering to the common app essay question or the final note?
ND Admissions
Terry – we mean both.
Woo-jae - Jakarta, Indonesia,
Hey, nice to meet you. I'm a Korean currently studying abroad in Indonesia at an international school. I have found out about your university from my counselor and somewhat feel 'attracted' to it... I really came to like the university and would love to study there. My interest lies in the business major. What are the strengths of Notre Dame's business courses?
ND Admissions
EVERYTHING! And I’m not just saying that to give you what you want to hear—Notre Dame’s business program is ranked #3 in the United States. And, in addition to getting a great academic education, our students grow as people to be well-rounded, mature individuals with solid morals and ethics who are ready to take on the real world!
Sheila - Richmond, TX
Do you have schlolarships for band?
ND Admissions
No, as auditions usually occur once students have arrived on campus.
Greg - Youngstown, Ohio
Is there a minor in real estate development ?
ND Admissions
Sorry, Greg- we do not offer a minor in real estate development.
Max - Elgin, IL
I am interested in studying medicine, and would therefore like to major in biology. However, I would also like to study business to possibly run my own practice. Is it possible to mayor both in biology and business or would I have to take business as a minor?
ND Admissions
You could do whatever you set your mind to. And at Notre Dame, we do have a pre-professional program which is good for pre-medicine, too. Also, we have a science business major that many students wanting to go into medicine choose to study in.
Terry - Hillsdale, NJ
Is there a section in the application to let you know if a student is a legacy applicant?
ND Admissions
There’s a section in the Notre Dame supplement for that.
Anthony - Dearborn Heights, MI
Your criteria for applying states you must have 2 units of "history." My school only offers one history class, but offers several social studies classes. Will these classes fill the requirement?
ND Admissions
Hi Anthony- You bet; those units can be filled with history or social science classes.
Keara - Tucson, AZ
Would you recommend sending a resume/activity list in addition to the common app?
ND Admissions
No, I would not.
Erin - Islandia, NY
i've heard that it's harder to get in if you don't have a family member who is an alumni, is this true?
ND Admissions
Erin, not true at all.
michelle - toronto, ontario
Is there a circle K or other volunteer service opportunity?
ND Admissions
The University offers many outreach opportunities, through academic classes, residence hall programs, and the Center for Social Concerns
Kat - Fairfield, CT
Does the orchestra have an active performance schedule both on and off campus? I also noticed on your website you have an opera program. I'm a violinist that would be interested in playing with the opera- is this a separate audition or how are they selected?
ND Admissions
Orchestra tends to play on campus, as ND has a phenomenal new performing arts center. However, they do sometimes take a tour over winter break to somewhere in the country or possibly outside of the country. Opera would probably be a separate audition as the two are not strongly affiliated together and there would be many violinists in the orchestra to choose form. However, the smaller chamber orchestra is chosen from the symphony orchestra.
Michael - Batesville, IN
Thank you for answering my questions. It has been very helpful.
Will there be any Junior visit days coming up soon.
ND Admissions
We do not have a special visit day for any specific group. We do offer tours, information sessions, and the opportunity to meet with your admission counselor for your region most of the year. If you would like to sign up for a visit visit this site http://admissions.nd.edu/visits/campus-visit.
Mike - West Hartford, CT
Is there an option for a business/engineering double major? and if so, how do those find the workload?
ND Admissions
The best option for a student interested in both business and engineering can consider the 5 year – engineering undergraduate degree combined with a MBA.
Grace - Maple Glen, PA
Hi, what can you tell me about you interational relations and social justice major program? Thanks!
ND Admissions
International relations is a subset of our political science program, so it is not a separate major. For social justice, we have poverty studies, peace studies, and a catholic social teaching minor.
Isaac - Fort Wayne, IN
What differentiates the
University of Notre Dame's biochemistry major from those of other colleges such as the
University of Michigan.
ND Admissions
Biochemistry at Notre Dame will describe course offerings and research opportunities for students in that major.
Allison - Reston, VA
I am interested in studying foreign language and will be taking the SAT II test in French on October 4. Does it make a difference that I will be doing the test without listening? If so, would I be able to test into the appropriate level class or would my IB score be used? Also, you have said that you do not look at PSAT scores, but will status as a National Merit semi-finalist be taken into consideration?
ND Admissions
Hi Allison,
To be honest with you, I’m not sure how the First Year of Studies will work with both your SAT II and the IB exam. I encourage you to contact them (www.nd.edu/~fys) for a specific explanation.
We will consider your National Merit standing as an award, however, because our financial aid is entirely need based, we do not have any special scholarships for such awards.
Danielle - Short Hills, NJ
I was wondering how the art history and history programs are at ND?
ND Admissions
The history program is very strong! Art history is not as popular as history, but you will still be taught by some of the best professors available.
Adam - Centerville, Ohio
Is there certain types of teachers we should be asking for recommendation letters? For example, is a math teacher better than a debate teacher?
ND Admissions
Adam,
We prefer a junior year or senior year teacher, but subject taught does not matter.
Alexandra - Walnut Creek, CA
What is the typical weather throughout the academic year on campus at Notre Dame? About how many days of sunshine are there per year?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame definitely receives all four seasons. Summer (which many students do not get the joy of experiencing) is very sunny with some good midwestern thunderstorms. Fall is my personal favorite because ND has trees all over campus that are absolutely gorgeous when the leaves change color. Winter is fun, especially at the beginning, because there are snowball fights on the quads and so many students have never experienced a true winter with lots of snowfall. Granted, it does get very cold, so come prepared. Although, this creates a bond between all students as we can complain about the terrible cold and how it makes it more difficult to get up to go to class. (Although, studying is then not as difficult to motivate yourself to do…) I never liked spring before coming to Notre Dame, but here it is amazing, because all the trees bloom, and everything is green because it just got covered in snow and doesn’t turn as brown as other areas of the country do in winter. Plus, everyone embraces the sun as soon as it starts getting warm and starts congregating on the quads. Sunshine is not as prominent as it is in Colorado, the sunshine state, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. But this fact does force you to enjoy the days of sunshine that we do get. Probably a longer answer than you wanted, but enjoy!
Clay - Cranbury, NJ
In relation to standardized test scores and academic GPA, how much weight do extra-curricular activities and school involvement hold in the admission process?
ND Admissions
Clay,
An applicants non-academic profile (extra-curricular activities, etc.) can have a big impact in our decision making process. Since many of the applicants that apply to Notre Dame have very similar academic profiles we often use the non-academic profile to help us make decisions and shape the first year class.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
The thing that initially caught my eye about ND was the HOBY Alumni Club. I am a HOBY alumnus and very excited to join them. Can you tell me about what they do or point me toward their website?
ND Admissions
To see more about them, check out the clubs on the Student Activities Office website: sao.nd.edu.
Jimmy - Devon, PA
How does Notre Dame's Classics Department rank among other Catholic Universities?
ND Admissions
Hi Jimmy- Thanks for writing- but we don’t have a firm answer for you tonight. Try visiting the Classice Department website http://al.nd.edu/majors%2Dprograms%2Dand%2Ddepartments/departments/classics/ where there is an email address for you to contact someone in that office. They should be able to answer your question.
Meagan - Clearfield, Pa
Is it better to take the SATs multiple times in hopes to achieve a higher score, or should they only be taken one or two times, even if this means getting a lower score?
ND Admissions
Take them as much as you want if you think you will improve. The number of times you take it does not affect your admission.
Ciara - Princeton Junction, NJ
What is the out of state student acceptance rate?
ND Admissions
Ciara, we’re truly a national university – almost 90% out of state. The admit rate is the same for everybody.
Jedson - Burlington, NJ
i am interested doing soccer and flag football as club or intramural sports is that provided at Notre Dame
ND Admissions
Jedson – we have a wonderful intramural athletics program at ND. It’s one of the best in the country. We have just about any sport that you would want to play. That includes soccer and football.
Kellie - Wickliffe, OH
Are there a lot of people involved in Campus Ministry activities?
ND Admissions
Yes, a lot of people are involved in campus ministry.
Meridith - ,
Do you offer business administration?
ND Admissions
There is the Mendoza College of Business which offers majors in Management Consulting, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Information Technology Management, and Management Entrepreneurship. Also, there is a Science Business major offered through the College of Science
Sierra - Blairsville, GA
I am interested in Urban and Regional Planning, Does ND offer that or a similar major?
ND Admissions
I think that would fall under the School of Architecture. Check out their website at architecture.nd.edu!
Jack - Middleburg, FL
Does Notre Dame keep a equal balance in priorties of their Students ?
ND Admissions
Yes, the University tries to ensure that the priorities of their students are balanced.
Deb - Boston, MA
Im in all honors and AP classes except for math. Im in an average class and get in the high B range, but in all other subjects i get A's. Would this grade bring me down in choice?
ND Admissions
We will take into account both the rigor of the course and your performance in it. Do your best in all of your classes.
Justin - New City, NY
What percent of freshman classes are taught by TA's at ND?
ND Admissions
Justin, 90% of our classes are taught by professors. Students will get TA’s but not all the time.
Allee - Ames, IA
How do students become managers for the football team?
ND Admissions
Hi Allee,
Managers start off in their freshmen and sophomore years working a variety of sports, including football. At the end of the sophomore year, the top twenty-one managers (as determined by a peer evaluation process) go on to their junior and senior years. More information is here
michelle - toronto, ontario
thanks, if i'm only in one club my senior year, but have been in many clubs from my freshman to my junior year, does it look bad? it's only because i moved..
ND Admissions
Hi Michelle,
Each individual case is different, but we understand that, after moving, it’s probably difficult to get involved in a number of activities and programs. Don’t worry—we won’t let moving negatively affect your application!
Anthony - Bentonville, AR
How diverse is ND student body?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is constantly working to promote diversity among its student body. Students come from a wide variety of racial, ethnic, religious, socio-economic, and political backgrounds.
Andrew - South Bend, IN
I'm a member of the National Honor Society. Will this increase my chances of being accepted?
ND Admissions
Generallay students in NHS have strong GPAs and a great commitment to service, two positive factors in the admissions process.
Liz - Phoenix, AZ
What percentage of the ND student body is Catholic?
ND Admissions
Liz, our student body is between 80-85% Catholic.
Greg - Youngstown, Ohio
I'm positive of my choice to major in architecture and I went to the career discovery program this summer. How many students are admitted into the architecture program each year?
ND Admissions
There are close to 200 total Architecture students at the University.
Josh - San Antonio, TX
If one wanted to learn to play the cello or violin are there resources for that or are the resources limited to the orchestra?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame offers individual music lessons for most instruments.
Alexandra - Portland, OR
I have decided that I really want to major in film with an emphasis on animation (if possible). Are there any supplementary classes that deal specifically with animation?
ND Admissions
Hi Alexandra,
I suggest that you contact the Film, Television, and Theatre Department to learn about specific courses in animation.
Phone: (574) 631-7054
Samuel - Clermont, Florida
how much money does Notre Dame offer for "class" projects
ND Admissions
If there is a specific class project or research project that you would like to undertake, there are many different programs for funding that different areas of the university offers. The best way to do this, is to find a professor to advise you in your project and they typically can direct you to good funding opportunities.
Terry - Hillsdale, NJ
When you talk about our Personal statement are you refering to the common app essay question or the final note?
ND Admissions
Terry – we mean both.
Woo-jae - Jakarta, Indonesia,
Hey, nice to meet you. I'm a Korean currently studying abroad in Indonesia at an international school. I have found out about your university from my counselor and somewhat feel 'attracted' to it... I really came to like the university and would love to study there. My interest lies in the business major. What are the strengths of Notre Dame's business courses?
ND Admissions
EVERYTHING! And I’m not just saying that to give you what you want to hear—Notre Dame’s business program is ranked #3 in the United States. And, in addition to getting a great academic education, our students grow as people to be well-rounded, mature individuals with solid morals and ethics who are ready to take on the real world!
Sheila - Richmond, TX
Do you have schlolarships for band?
ND Admissions
No, as auditions usually occur once students have arrived on campus.
Greg - Youngstown, Ohio
Is there a minor in real estate development ?
ND Admissions
Sorry, Greg- we do not offer a minor in real estate development.
Max - Elgin, IL
I am interested in studying medicine, and would therefore like to major in biology. However, I would also like to study business to possibly run my own practice. Is it possible to mayor both in biology and business or would I have to take business as a minor?
ND Admissions
You could do whatever you set your mind to. And at Notre Dame, we do have a pre-professional program which is good for pre-medicine, too. Also, we have a science business major that many students wanting to go into medicine choose to study in.
Terry - Hillsdale, NJ
Is there a section in the application to let you know if a student is a legacy applicant?
ND Admissions
There’s a section in the Notre Dame supplement for that.
Anthony - Dearborn Heights, MI
Your criteria for applying states you must have 2 units of "history." My school only offers one history class, but offers several social studies classes. Will these classes fill the requirement?
ND Admissions
Hi Anthony- You bet; those units can be filled with history or social science classes.
Keara - Tucson, AZ
Would you recommend sending a resume/activity list in addition to the common app?
ND Admissions
No, I would not.
Erin - Islandia, NY
i've heard that it's harder to get in if you don't have a family member who is an alumni, is this true?
ND Admissions
Erin, not true at all.
michelle - toronto, ontario
Is there a circle K or other volunteer service opportunity?
ND Admissions
The University offers many outreach opportunities, through academic classes, residence hall programs, and the Center for Social Concerns
Kat - Fairfield, CT
Does the orchestra have an active performance schedule both on and off campus? I also noticed on your website you have an opera program. I'm a violinist that would be interested in playing with the opera- is this a separate audition or how are they selected?
ND Admissions
Orchestra tends to play on campus, as ND has a phenomenal new performing arts center. However, they do sometimes take a tour over winter break to somewhere in the country or possibly outside of the country. Opera would probably be a separate audition as the two are not strongly affiliated together and there would be many violinists in the orchestra to choose form. However, the smaller chamber orchestra is chosen from the symphony orchestra.
Michael - Batesville, IN
Thank you for answering my questions. It has been very helpful. Will there be any Junior visit days coming up soon.
ND Admissions
We do not have a special visit day for any specific group. We do offer tours, information sessions, and the opportunity to meet with your admission counselor for your region most of the year. If you would like to sign up for a visit visit this site http://admissions.nd.edu/visits/campus-visit.
Mike - West Hartford, CT
Is there an option for a business/engineering double major? and if so, how do those find the workload?
ND Admissions
The best option for a student interested in both business and engineering can consider the 5 year – engineering undergraduate degree combined with a MBA.
Grace - Maple Glen, PA
Hi, what can you tell me about you interational relations and social justice major program? Thanks!
ND Admissions
International relations is a subset of our political science program, so it is not a separate major. For social justice, we have poverty studies, peace studies, and a catholic social teaching minor.
Isaac - Fort Wayne, IN
What differentiates the University of Notre Dame's biochemistry major from those of other colleges such as the University of Michigan.
ND Admissions
Biochemistry at Notre Dame will describe course offerings and research opportunities for students in that major.
Allison - Reston, VA
I am interested in studying foreign language and will be taking the SAT II test in French on October 4. Does it make a difference that I will be doing the test without listening? If so, would I be able to test into the appropriate level class or would my IB score be used? Also, you have said that you do not look at PSAT scores, but will status as a National Merit semi-finalist be taken into consideration?
ND Admissions
Hi Allison,
To be honest with you, I’m not sure how the First Year of Studies will work with both your SAT II and the IB exam. I encourage you to contact them (www.nd.edu/~fys) for a specific explanation.
We will consider your National Merit standing as an award, however, because our financial aid is entirely need based, we do not have any special scholarships for such awards.
Danielle - Short Hills, NJ
I was wondering how the art history and history programs are at ND?
ND Admissions
The history program is very strong! Art history is not as popular as history, but you will still be taught by some of the best professors available.
Adam - Centerville, Ohio
Is there certain types of teachers we should be asking for recommendation letters? For example, is a math teacher better than a debate teacher?
ND Admissions
Adam,
We prefer a junior year or senior year teacher, but subject taught does not matter.
Alexandra - Walnut Creek, CA
What is the typical weather throughout the academic year on campus at Notre Dame? About how many days of sunshine are there per year?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame definitely receives all four seasons. Summer (which many students do not get the joy of experiencing) is very sunny with some good midwestern thunderstorms. Fall is my personal favorite because ND has trees all over campus that are absolutely gorgeous when the leaves change color. Winter is fun, especially at the beginning, because there are snowball fights on the quads and so many students have never experienced a true winter with lots of snowfall. Granted, it does get very cold, so come prepared. Although, this creates a bond between all students as we can complain about the terrible cold and how it makes it more difficult to get up to go to class. (Although, studying is then not as difficult to motivate yourself to do…) I never liked spring before coming to Notre Dame, but here it is amazing, because all the trees bloom, and everything is green because it just got covered in snow and doesn’t turn as brown as other areas of the country do in winter. Plus, everyone embraces the sun as soon as it starts getting warm and starts congregating on the quads. Sunshine is not as prominent as it is in Colorado, the sunshine state, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. But this fact does force you to enjoy the days of sunshine that we do get. Probably a longer answer than you wanted, but enjoy!
Clay - Cranbury, NJ
In relation to standardized test scores and academic GPA, how much weight do extra-curricular activities and school involvement hold in the admission process?
ND Admissions
Clay,
An applicants non-academic profile (extra-curricular activities, etc.) can have a big impact in our decision making process. Since many of the applicants that apply to Notre Dame have very similar academic profiles we often use the non-academic profile to help us make decisions and shape the first year class.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
The thing that initially caught my eye about ND was the HOBY Alumni Club. I am a HOBY alumnus and very excited to join them. Can you tell me about what they do or point me toward their website?
ND Admissions
To see more about them, check out the clubs on the Student Activities Office website: sao.nd.edu.
Jimmy - Devon, PA
How does Notre Dame's Classics Department rank among other Catholic Universities?
ND Admissions
Hi Jimmy- Thanks for writing- but we don’t have a firm answer for you tonight. Try visiting the Classice Department website http://al.nd.edu/majors%2Dprograms%2Dand%2Ddepartments/departments/classics/ where there is an email address for you to contact someone in that office. They should be able to answer your question.
Meagan - Clearfield, Pa
Is it better to take the SATs multiple times in hopes to achieve a higher score, or should they only be taken one or two times, even if this means getting a lower score?
ND Admissions
Take them as much as you want if you think you will improve. The number of times you take it does not affect your admission.
Ciara - Princeton Junction, NJ
What is the out of state student acceptance rate?
ND Admissions
Ciara, we’re truly a national university – almost 90% out of state. The admit rate is the same for everybody.
Jedson - Burlington, NJ
i am interested doing soccer and flag football as club or intramural sports is that provided at Notre Dame
ND Admissions
Jedson – we have a wonderful intramural athletics program at ND. It’s one of the best in the country. We have just about any sport that you would want to play. That includes soccer and football.
Kellie - Wickliffe, OH
Are there a lot of people involved in Campus Ministry activities?
ND Admissions
Yes, a lot of people are involved in campus ministry.
Meridith - ,
Do you offer business administration?
ND Admissions
There is the Mendoza College of Business which offers majors in Management Consulting, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Information Technology Management, and Management Entrepreneurship. Also, there is a Science Business major offered through the College of Science
Sierra - Blairsville, GA
I am interested in Urban and Regional Planning, Does ND offer that or a similar major?
ND Admissions
I think that would fall under the School of Architecture. Check out their website at architecture.nd.edu!
Jack - Middleburg, FL
Does Notre Dame keep a equal balance in priorties of their Students ?
ND Admissions
Yes, the University tries to ensure that the priorities of their students are balanced.
Deb - Boston, MA
Im in all honors and AP classes except for math. Im in an average class and get in the high B range, but in all other subjects i get A's. Would this grade bring me down in choice?
ND Admissions
We will take into account both the rigor of the course and your performance in it. Do your best in all of your classes.
Justin - New City, NY
What percent of freshman classes are taught by TA's at ND?
ND Admissions
Justin, 90% of our classes are taught by professors. Students will get TA’s but not all the time.
Allee - Ames, IA
How do students become managers for the football team?
ND Admissions
Hi Allee,
Managers start off in their freshmen and sophomore years working a variety of sports, including football. At the end of the sophomore year, the top twenty-one managers (as determined by a peer evaluation process) go on to their junior and senior years. More information is here
