Chats » Early Action Admitted Student Chat 2008/2009
Robert - Los Angeles, CA
Are there any hiking/backpacking trails nearby?
ND Admissions
There are running trails around the lakes on our campus, and “hiking” trails across the street along the St. Joe River bluffs on St. Mary’s campus. There’s also a number of state parks nearby—so, although it’s nothing too intense (per our lack of, say, mountains), there’s ample places for recreation. I took up xc skiing while here, as there are groomed trails at the nearby St. Patrick’s and Potato Creek State Park.
Gregory - Peabody, MA
What course of study would I pursue to get into Sports Broadcasting/Journalism or Sports Management?
ND Admissions
You may want to consider the American Studies program with a minor in Journalism in the College of Arts and Letters or the Management program in the College of Business
Leah - Dallas, Texas,
Is there an undergraduate literary magazine on campus?
ND Admissions
Hi Leah,
We do have an undergraduate literary magazine – The Juggler. We also have the Observer, a daily newspaper, and Scholastic Magazine.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
Do you often have politicians and judges speak on campus? Is this open to all students or just those studying political science and law?
ND Admissions
The various academic departments do an amazing job of bringing in guest speakers to Notre Dame to attend conferences and give lectures. The majority of these events are open to any students that are interested, even though they may only be advertised within the specific departments.
Chris - Batesville, IN
Next year we will have 2 children attending Notre Dame. Do we file one FASFA and CSS Profile or do we file individual forms for each?
ND Admissions
Hi Chris,
You will want to file a FAFSA and CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE for each student. While the parent information will be the same, these forms also request student information which may vary between your children.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
What type of internships and co-ops are available in the Engineering college? Specifically in Civil Engineering?
ND Admissions
We have many engineering opportunities available for students in all of our majors. Most of them are summer internships all over the United States. We do not have co-op engineering programs, as we’ve found that students have to completely focus on the rigorous course of student in order to succeed.
John - Easton, CT
What are the advantages and unique traits of a Notre Dame education in political science compared to what might be afforded in a certain other Jesuit academic institution in Washington D.C.?
ND Admissions
Hi John,
What Jesuit academic institution are you talking about? =) I kid, I kid.
Our location in Indiana does not prevent our students from access to government, internships, or jobs while they are here. Actually, one of our study abroad programs is a program in Washington, where students can study and intern for a semester (OK, it’s not really studying “abroad”, but you get the picture!).
As a political science major myself, I can tell you that I never felt hindered by the location or nature of Notre Dame. I was constantly sent e-mails from the Political Science Department and other institutions on campus to let me know of different government opportunities here, at Washington, and abroad.
I also like to think that Notre Dame has stayed true to its Catholic morals and background. We are proud of who we are and won’t back down from that.
Maria - Birmingham, AL
If I can't part with my coffee maker, can I bring it and only use it in the common kitchen area in the dorm?
ND Admissions
A fellow coffee lover, I can relate to you on this one :) Well, you didn’t hear it from me, but I would say that if you really can’t part with it, just bring it to your room and don’t publicize it to your RA or rectress. And make sure your roommate(s) are okay with it. (they probably will be) Several of my friends and roommates had coffee makers and there was never an issue. As for putting it in the dorm kitchen, it may get used by other girls who don’t clean it or it might just be a pain to keep it somewhere other than your room. But if you are not really a rule breaker, you can always get coffee at a cafe. There are about a million of them, including Starbucks and my personal favorite, Waddicks :)
David - St. Louis, MO
What is the religious life like at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is very proud of its Catholic identity, but it is not forced upon anyone. Catholic spiritual life is extremely active at ND. We have beautiful and traditional Sunday and daily Masses in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on campus, and most of the Eucharistic ministers and lectors are students. Masses in the dorms are very special as well; there is an incredible sense of community when celebrating Mass in the halls, and a large percentage of the dorm attends. We also have a number of other religious groups on campus: each dorm has a small bible study/faith sharing group called Emmaus, 4:7 is a Praise and Worship Group, and Iron Sharpens Iron is a non-denominational Christian group that meets once a week. Campus Ministry also offers a number of retreats each year, and there are literally hundreds of volunteer opportunities. I know that there are other spiritual activities that I am missing, but I really feel that ND has an incredibly vibrant religious life.
Megan - Morristown, NJ
How easy is it to get to the Chicago airports when you want to fly home? Are there any other good alternatives?
ND Admissions
Hi Megan,
Thanks for joining us tonight! There are actually several ways to get to Chicago airports. The first would be to take a Coach USA shuttle. They actually pick up students right on campus and drop off at both airports. The other option is to take the South Shore train. The train departs from South Bend Airport and drops off at Randolph and Michigan, from there it’s pretty to easy to jump on the “El” and get to the either airport. Beyond these options, there are also the possibility to catch a ride with friends. Hope this helps!
Melissa - Chicago, IL
My grades pretty much stayed the same from what ND saw before I was admitted EA. However, my honors Information Technology grade went from an A to a C. I'm taking this class to fulfill an elective credit. I intend to bring this grade up and continue to work hard in my other classes this semester. Will this C effect ND's decision to admit me?
ND Admissions
Hello Melissa,
Do try to keep your grade at as high a level as possible. One C grade will not reverse our decision, but more that one C or a D grade will lead to the need for explanation on your part and assessment on our part as to whether our admission offer stands.
Erin - Denver, CO
When do I sign up for intramural or dorm based sports?
ND Admissions
Erin,
Sign-up sheets are available throughout the dorms as soon as registration begins. Students can find out about registration dates on the Recsports website.
Lewis - , IL
Hello. I have heard a lot about this swim test, is it essential to be successfully admitted to Notre Dame? Is there any way to get out of it, or is it done in private?
ND Admissions
Hi Lewis,
The swim test certainly doesn’t have anything to do with being admitted to ND. If you can’t swim, you don’t have to actually take the test, you’ll just sign up to take the semester long beginning swimming class. Otherwise if you do take the test, there will be other students and instructors around.
Stephen - midland, MI
How does Notre Dame's engineering program compare to other top engineering programs around the country?
ND Admissions
Hi Stephen. We believe our engineering programs compare very well to other programs around the country. We expect excellence in everything that we do – that includes everything from academics to athletics to spirituality on campus.
Maria - Birmingham, AL
What do students typically do when they are not studying or working?
ND Admissions
There is always something happening on Notre Dame’s campus! Student Activities, Student Union Board, Legends Nightclub, student clubs, and residence halls do a great job of providing entertainment and activities throughout the semester. There are concerts, comedians, lectures, dorm signature events, and dances just to name a handful.
Also, getting off campus to shop, go to the movies, or even take trips to Chicago is very easy. Students ride the South Bend Transpo bus system for free, many cab companies provide student discounts, and there are daily buses and trains into Chicago.
Megan - Morristown, NJ
How many students were admitted during early action this year?
ND Admissions
We admitted around 1700 Early Action students this year. We will admit more than 1700 in Regular Action, anticipating over 14,000 applications in total.
Katie - Kingston, PA
I applied to Notre Dame in theology but have changed my mind. Will this impact my classes for the first semester and who can I talk to about this?
ND Admissions
Katie, in June the First Year of Studies will mail you an academic guide and a course selection form. On the course selection form, you will be asked to list your intended program. Whatever you indicate at that time will be the basis for your fall semester schedule along with the courses you list as options.
Joe - Verona, WI
So I'm a guy who is just doing laundry for the first time and I will probably end up with all pink cloths. What are the laundry facilities and serivices on campus that might help me? Washer and dryer in every dorm? seriveces? ect...
ND Admissions
Joe,
I’d encourage you to simply arrive with a single color wardrobe: green would be a good choice. There are washers and dryers available in each dorm that you can pay using quarters or money put on your ID card. I bet you can find a dormmate to help you out on a busy Sunday night. There is a full service laundry and dry cleaning service on campus called St. Michael’s Laundry that you may want to consider. Good luck, Joe.
Marybeth - Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
Dancing is a big part of my life. Are there opportunities to dance at Notre Dame (not necessarily as a major or a minor)?
ND Admissions
There are certainly opportunities to dance here! We have clubs—some culturally based, some performanced based. Some students will also participate in once a year programs like a dorm sponsored dance show raising money for charity.
Neil - Morristown, NJ
Is there much of a gay community at Notre Dame? Honestly speaking, how accepted or discriminated against is such a community?
ND Admissions
Thanks for asking a very important and poignant question. While our gay and lesbian community is not large at Notre Dame we do try to be inclusive of everybody. We very much believe in the idea of a singular Notre Dame Family and encourage all of our students to be accepting of each other not matter their background.
Jake - Buffalo, NY
If you're enrolled in the college of arts and letters, can you still take classes out of the business school or even pursue a minor/double major from the two separate colleges?
ND Admissions
Jake,
Students in the College of Arts & Letters have the opportunity to take four classes in the business school. With permission, students are able to double major between the colleges.
Megan - ,
How do they choose the Hesburgh international scholars? What do we do in that weekend?
ND Admissions
Hi Megan,
The Hesburgh International Scholars are chosen from the best and brightest of our admitted students from Latin America. We have planned a few days on campus to give you a great feel of Notre Dame and what the University can offer you. I look forward to meeting you when you’re here!
Dan - Weymouth, MA
Are there any areas where I can play guitar without bothering roommates?
ND Admissions
Hi Dan,
There are plenty of areas in each dorm and on campus to play a guitar. Most dorms have private study rooms or quiet areas where you could easily seclude yourself to play without bothering anyone. It shouldn’t be a problem!
Chris - Linwood, NJ
I know Notre Dame features single-sex dorms only, but to what extent are dorms seperated based on year? And which dorms will most likely be considered for freshman in the '09-'10 school year.
ND Admissions
Hi Chris,
Dorms are not at all separated based on year; each dorm has a mix of all years, majors, and just about anything else you could think of. Even within the dorms, hall staff makes sure that each section has a mix of all class years. You will be randomly assigned to a dorm your freshman year, and you have an equal chance of ending up in every dorm. Each dorm is unique, and most people end up staying in the same dorm while they are at ND.
Chrissy - Montville, NJ
Do you know how much it would cost to get from the South Bend train station to campus?
ND Admissions
Chrissy,
A taxi would costs about $13 plus tip from either the South Bend Regional Airport (South Shore train line ends there) or from the AMTRAK station in south bend.
Michael - Geneseo, IL
As a senior in high school, if I have a friend who currently attends ND, can I infromally spend a couple days with him and possibly even shadow him, without making it formal with the University?
ND Admissions
Hey Michael!
Of course! Your friend will have to let his RA know that you are coming to visit, but other than that, you don’t have to take a tour or anything. And honestly, I think that is probably the best way to get a good idea of what student life is like here because nothing will be planned out or staged at all. I came to visit my sister before I came and that was definitely the best indicator of student life for me.
Emily - Greenville, SC
What is the largest refrigerator size allowed in a dorm room?
ND Admissions
Your refrigerator cannot exceed 5.0 cubic feet
Patrick - Marshfield, MA
I have AP credits in Calculus AB and US History. Do many students use these credits and how do they use them?
ND Admissions
Patrick, most students who earn AP history credit use it to fulfill the basic University history requirement. Use of credit for calculus varies with a student’s academic program. Most would use it to complete a portion of their program’s math requirement.
Kelly - Sunderland, MD
What's the most popular destination for study abroad?
ND Admissions
A tricky question! the largest program is in London, but that is simply based on space availability. To be honest, all of the programs are quite popular. Use this site for more information.
Taylor - Bedford, IN
I have been recruited to swim at several colleges but have been admitted to ND as a non-athlete. How should I proceed, if I would like to try to walk on with the swimming Irish?
ND Admissions
Hi Taylor and congratulations on all your choices,
I would suggest that you contact the recruiting coach on the Notre Dame Swim Team directly with your team/personal statistics and await advice on how to proceed as a hopeful walk-on athlete.
Patrick - Marshfield, MA
Is there any way to request dorm assignments if you have family members who lived in a certain dorm?
ND Admissions
Patrick,
Students may request dorm assignments by contacting the dorm’s rector.
Brian - Knoxville, TN
What's the weather like right now? I'm not scared... Give it to me straight!
ND Admissions
As we speak… err, type, it’s a balmy 10°. You won’t see much now, but if you check this webcam again in the light of day, you can see a live shot of campus. If it’s any help, this is the worst winter I’ve experienced in 10 years here, so future years are bound to be better, right?
Kerriann - Franklin Lakes, NJ
I'm confused. I've seen two differing answers tonight regarding financial aid. One answer said the average financial package (loan) was $3,291 and just recently a new response said the average package was $30,800. I must be misinterpreting something? Thanks.
ND Admissions
Kerriann,
The average total financial aid package (includes University Scholarship, work and loan) was $30,800. The total aid package varies depending on financial need.
The average need-based loan (Federal Stafford and/or Federal Perkins Loan) was $3,291.
Jami - ,
Hi. I feel strange asking this question but do students have parties on campus? It's not something I plan on doing every night but occasionally I like to go out and have fun! Thanks
ND Admissions
Hi Jami,
There are parties on campus. They are generally on Friday and Saturday nights and almost always in men’s dorms (as opposed to women’s dorms). Basically, this gives you the option to go or not depending on your mood – you can find a party to go to on campus, but there are tons of other things to do on weekends.
Louis - Bensenville/Wood Dale, IL
What is Notre Dame's study abroad program like? What countries participate in the study abroad program and when do students normally obtain the opportunity to partake in the program?
ND Admissions
We offer programs throughout Western Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australia. Students typically go for a semester during the junior year—there is some variation on this depending on the program. You can find more information here .
Maria - Birmingham, AL
What is the max. number of credit hours a student can have from AP courses?
ND Admissions
Maria, there is a maximum of 30 AP credits that can be applied toward a Notre Dame degree.
Phil - , MI
When I filled out the application I stated English Literature/History as my major, but since have changed my mind to Chemistry...Is there going to be any problems switching majors
ND Admissions
Whn you applied to Notre Dame, Phil, you indicated what you thought might be your major, but you were not admitted with commitment to that major. So you may spend the first year here determining what will be your best suited major, be it English, history or chemistry. You will enter the appropriate college at the end of your first year here.
Carolyn - Carmel, IN
What effects does the single-sex dorm situation have on relationships / social life at ND?
ND Admissions
Hey Carolyn!
the single sex dorm life can affect you as much or as little as you want it to—you just have to reach out a little bit to make guy-friends. it doesnt make things awkward at all—it is just a pain when you have to walk outside in the winter to see your guy friends instead of just running down the hall :)
Chrissy - Montville, NJ
Are dorms usually open over breaks? And if they close, will they re-open early for student athletes?
ND Admissions
Hi Chrissy,
The dorms remain open over all breaks (fall, Thanksgiving, spring, and Easter) except for Christmas break. Quite a few students stay on campus for breaks. If you are staying at ND over the summer, you will apply for summer housing, but you may end up in a different dorm than the one you live in during the academic year. I know that you will probably move in early in the fall depending on your sport. After Christmas break, however, the dorms do not re-open until the Sunday when everyone comes back. If your team asks you to come early, they will find you alternate living arrangements before the dorm re-opens.
Emily - Greenville, SC
Does Notre Dame offer women's rowing as an intramural sport? How do you become involved in it?
ND Admissions
Hi Emily,
For women, there is not an intramural program, but you can be on the varsity team, even if you are not a recruited athlete. If you’ve never rowed before, your first year is a novice year, where you get taught the basics. After that you can train with the varsity team.
Robert - Los Angeles, CA
Are there any hiking/backpacking trails nearby?
ND Admissions
There are running trails around the lakes on our campus, and “hiking” trails across the street along the St. Joe River bluffs on St. Mary’s campus. There’s also a number of state parks nearby—so, although it’s nothing too intense (per our lack of, say, mountains), there’s ample places for recreation. I took up xc skiing while here, as there are groomed trails at the nearby St. Patrick’s and Potato Creek State Park.
Gregory - Peabody, MA
What course of study would I pursue to get into Sports Broadcasting/Journalism or Sports Management?
ND Admissions
You may want to consider the American Studies program with a minor in Journalism in the College of Arts and Letters or the Management program in the College of Business
Leah - Dallas, Texas,
Is there an undergraduate literary magazine on campus?
ND Admissions
Hi Leah, We do have an undergraduate literary magazine – The Juggler. We also have the Observer, a daily newspaper, and Scholastic Magazine.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
Do you often have politicians and judges speak on campus? Is this open to all students or just those studying political science and law?
ND Admissions
The various academic departments do an amazing job of bringing in guest speakers to Notre Dame to attend conferences and give lectures. The majority of these events are open to any students that are interested, even though they may only be advertised within the specific departments.
Chris - Batesville, IN
Next year we will have 2 children attending Notre Dame. Do we file one FASFA and CSS Profile or do we file individual forms for each?
ND Admissions
Hi Chris,
You will want to file a FAFSA and CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE for each student. While the parent information will be the same, these forms also request student information which may vary between your children.
Shannon - Shoreview, MN
What type of internships and co-ops are available in the Engineering college? Specifically in Civil Engineering?
ND Admissions
We have many engineering opportunities available for students in all of our majors. Most of them are summer internships all over the United States. We do not have co-op engineering programs, as we’ve found that students have to completely focus on the rigorous course of student in order to succeed.
John - Easton, CT
What are the advantages and unique traits of a Notre Dame education in political science compared to what might be afforded in a certain other Jesuit academic institution in Washington D.C.?
ND Admissions
Hi John,
What Jesuit academic institution are you talking about? =) I kid, I kid.
Our location in Indiana does not prevent our students from access to government, internships, or jobs while they are here. Actually, one of our study abroad programs is a program in Washington, where students can study and intern for a semester (OK, it’s not really studying “abroad”, but you get the picture!).
As a political science major myself, I can tell you that I never felt hindered by the location or nature of Notre Dame. I was constantly sent e-mails from the Political Science Department and other institutions on campus to let me know of different government opportunities here, at Washington, and abroad.
I also like to think that Notre Dame has stayed true to its Catholic morals and background. We are proud of who we are and won’t back down from that.
Maria - Birmingham, AL
If I can't part with my coffee maker, can I bring it and only use it in the common kitchen area in the dorm?
ND Admissions
A fellow coffee lover, I can relate to you on this one :) Well, you didn’t hear it from me, but I would say that if you really can’t part with it, just bring it to your room and don’t publicize it to your RA or rectress. And make sure your roommate(s) are okay with it. (they probably will be) Several of my friends and roommates had coffee makers and there was never an issue. As for putting it in the dorm kitchen, it may get used by other girls who don’t clean it or it might just be a pain to keep it somewhere other than your room. But if you are not really a rule breaker, you can always get coffee at a cafe. There are about a million of them, including Starbucks and my personal favorite, Waddicks :)
David - St. Louis, MO
What is the religious life like at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame is very proud of its Catholic identity, but it is not forced upon anyone. Catholic spiritual life is extremely active at ND. We have beautiful and traditional Sunday and daily Masses in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on campus, and most of the Eucharistic ministers and lectors are students. Masses in the dorms are very special as well; there is an incredible sense of community when celebrating Mass in the halls, and a large percentage of the dorm attends. We also have a number of other religious groups on campus: each dorm has a small bible study/faith sharing group called Emmaus, 4:7 is a Praise and Worship Group, and Iron Sharpens Iron is a non-denominational Christian group that meets once a week. Campus Ministry also offers a number of retreats each year, and there are literally hundreds of volunteer opportunities. I know that there are other spiritual activities that I am missing, but I really feel that ND has an incredibly vibrant religious life.
Megan - Morristown, NJ
How easy is it to get to the Chicago airports when you want to fly home? Are there any other good alternatives?
ND Admissions
Hi Megan,
Thanks for joining us tonight! There are actually several ways to get to Chicago airports. The first would be to take a Coach USA shuttle. They actually pick up students right on campus and drop off at both airports. The other option is to take the South Shore train. The train departs from South Bend Airport and drops off at Randolph and Michigan, from there it’s pretty to easy to jump on the “El” and get to the either airport. Beyond these options, there are also the possibility to catch a ride with friends. Hope this helps!
Melissa - Chicago, IL
My grades pretty much stayed the same from what ND saw before I was admitted EA. However, my honors Information Technology grade went from an A to a C. I'm taking this class to fulfill an elective credit. I intend to bring this grade up and continue to work hard in my other classes this semester. Will this C effect ND's decision to admit me?
ND Admissions
Hello Melissa,
Do try to keep your grade at as high a level as possible. One C grade will not reverse our decision, but more that one C or a D grade will lead to the need for explanation on your part and assessment on our part as to whether our admission offer stands.
Erin - Denver, CO
When do I sign up for intramural or dorm based sports?
ND Admissions
Erin,
Sign-up sheets are available throughout the dorms as soon as registration begins. Students can find out about registration dates on the Recsports website.
Lewis - , IL
Hello. I have heard a lot about this swim test, is it essential to be successfully admitted to Notre Dame? Is there any way to get out of it, or is it done in private?
ND Admissions
Hi Lewis,
The swim test certainly doesn’t have anything to do with being admitted to ND. If you can’t swim, you don’t have to actually take the test, you’ll just sign up to take the semester long beginning swimming class. Otherwise if you do take the test, there will be other students and instructors around.
Stephen - midland, MI
How does Notre Dame's engineering program compare to other top engineering programs around the country?
ND Admissions
Hi Stephen. We believe our engineering programs compare very well to other programs around the country. We expect excellence in everything that we do – that includes everything from academics to athletics to spirituality on campus.
Maria - Birmingham, AL
What do students typically do when they are not studying or working?
ND Admissions
There is always something happening on Notre Dame’s campus! Student Activities, Student Union Board, Legends Nightclub, student clubs, and residence halls do a great job of providing entertainment and activities throughout the semester. There are concerts, comedians, lectures, dorm signature events, and dances just to name a handful.
Also, getting off campus to shop, go to the movies, or even take trips to Chicago is very easy. Students ride the South Bend Transpo bus system for free, many cab companies provide student discounts, and there are daily buses and trains into Chicago.
Megan - Morristown, NJ
How many students were admitted during early action this year?
ND Admissions
We admitted around 1700 Early Action students this year. We will admit more than 1700 in Regular Action, anticipating over 14,000 applications in total.
Katie - Kingston, PA
I applied to Notre Dame in theology but have changed my mind. Will this impact my classes for the first semester and who can I talk to about this?
ND Admissions
Katie, in June the First Year of Studies will mail you an academic guide and a course selection form. On the course selection form, you will be asked to list your intended program. Whatever you indicate at that time will be the basis for your fall semester schedule along with the courses you list as options.
Joe - Verona, WI
So I'm a guy who is just doing laundry for the first time and I will probably end up with all pink cloths. What are the laundry facilities and serivices on campus that might help me? Washer and dryer in every dorm? seriveces? ect...
ND Admissions
Joe,
I’d encourage you to simply arrive with a single color wardrobe: green would be a good choice. There are washers and dryers available in each dorm that you can pay using quarters or money put on your ID card. I bet you can find a dormmate to help you out on a busy Sunday night. There is a full service laundry and dry cleaning service on campus called St. Michael’s Laundry that you may want to consider. Good luck, Joe.
Marybeth - Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
Dancing is a big part of my life. Are there opportunities to dance at Notre Dame (not necessarily as a major or a minor)?
ND Admissions
There are certainly opportunities to dance here! We have clubs—some culturally based, some performanced based. Some students will also participate in once a year programs like a dorm sponsored dance show raising money for charity.
Neil - Morristown, NJ
Is there much of a gay community at Notre Dame? Honestly speaking, how accepted or discriminated against is such a community?
ND Admissions
Thanks for asking a very important and poignant question. While our gay and lesbian community is not large at Notre Dame we do try to be inclusive of everybody. We very much believe in the idea of a singular Notre Dame Family and encourage all of our students to be accepting of each other not matter their background.
Jake - Buffalo, NY
If you're enrolled in the college of arts and letters, can you still take classes out of the business school or even pursue a minor/double major from the two separate colleges?
ND Admissions
Jake,
Students in the College of Arts & Letters have the opportunity to take four classes in the business school. With permission, students are able to double major between the colleges.
Megan - ,
How do they choose the Hesburgh international scholars? What do we do in that weekend?
ND Admissions
Hi Megan,
The Hesburgh International Scholars are chosen from the best and brightest of our admitted students from Latin America. We have planned a few days on campus to give you a great feel of Notre Dame and what the University can offer you. I look forward to meeting you when you’re here!
Dan - Weymouth, MA
Are there any areas where I can play guitar without bothering roommates?
ND Admissions
Hi Dan,
There are plenty of areas in each dorm and on campus to play a guitar. Most dorms have private study rooms or quiet areas where you could easily seclude yourself to play without bothering anyone. It shouldn’t be a problem!
Chris - Linwood, NJ
I know Notre Dame features single-sex dorms only, but to what extent are dorms seperated based on year? And which dorms will most likely be considered for freshman in the '09-'10 school year.
ND Admissions
Hi Chris, Dorms are not at all separated based on year; each dorm has a mix of all years, majors, and just about anything else you could think of. Even within the dorms, hall staff makes sure that each section has a mix of all class years. You will be randomly assigned to a dorm your freshman year, and you have an equal chance of ending up in every dorm. Each dorm is unique, and most people end up staying in the same dorm while they are at ND.
Chrissy - Montville, NJ
Do you know how much it would cost to get from the South Bend train station to campus?
ND Admissions
Chrissy,
A taxi would costs about $13 plus tip from either the South Bend Regional Airport (South Shore train line ends there) or from the AMTRAK station in south bend.
Michael - Geneseo, IL
As a senior in high school, if I have a friend who currently attends ND, can I infromally spend a couple days with him and possibly even shadow him, without making it formal with the University?
ND Admissions
Hey Michael!
Of course! Your friend will have to let his RA know that you are coming to visit, but other than that, you don’t have to take a tour or anything. And honestly, I think that is probably the best way to get a good idea of what student life is like here because nothing will be planned out or staged at all. I came to visit my sister before I came and that was definitely the best indicator of student life for me.
Emily - Greenville, SC
What is the largest refrigerator size allowed in a dorm room?
ND Admissions
Your refrigerator cannot exceed 5.0 cubic feet
Patrick - Marshfield, MA
I have AP credits in Calculus AB and US History. Do many students use these credits and how do they use them?
ND Admissions
Patrick, most students who earn AP history credit use it to fulfill the basic University history requirement. Use of credit for calculus varies with a student’s academic program. Most would use it to complete a portion of their program’s math requirement.
Kelly - Sunderland, MD
What's the most popular destination for study abroad?
ND Admissions
A tricky question! the largest program is in London, but that is simply based on space availability. To be honest, all of the programs are quite popular. Use this site for more information.
Taylor - Bedford, IN
I have been recruited to swim at several colleges but have been admitted to ND as a non-athlete. How should I proceed, if I would like to try to walk on with the swimming Irish?
ND Admissions
Hi Taylor and congratulations on all your choices, I would suggest that you contact the recruiting coach on the Notre Dame Swim Team directly with your team/personal statistics and await advice on how to proceed as a hopeful walk-on athlete.
Patrick - Marshfield, MA
Is there any way to request dorm assignments if you have family members who lived in a certain dorm?
ND Admissions
Patrick,
Students may request dorm assignments by contacting the dorm’s rector.
Brian - Knoxville, TN
What's the weather like right now? I'm not scared... Give it to me straight!
ND Admissions
As we speak… err, type, it’s a balmy 10°. You won’t see much now, but if you check this webcam again in the light of day, you can see a live shot of campus. If it’s any help, this is the worst winter I’ve experienced in 10 years here, so future years are bound to be better, right?
Kerriann - Franklin Lakes, NJ
I'm confused. I've seen two differing answers tonight regarding financial aid. One answer said the average financial package (loan) was $3,291 and just recently a new response said the average package was $30,800. I must be misinterpreting something? Thanks.
ND Admissions
Kerriann,
The average total financial aid package (includes University Scholarship, work and loan) was $30,800. The total aid package varies depending on financial need.
The average need-based loan (Federal Stafford and/or Federal Perkins Loan) was $3,291.
Jami - ,
Hi. I feel strange asking this question but do students have parties on campus? It's not something I plan on doing every night but occasionally I like to go out and have fun! Thanks
ND Admissions
Hi Jami, There are parties on campus. They are generally on Friday and Saturday nights and almost always in men’s dorms (as opposed to women’s dorms). Basically, this gives you the option to go or not depending on your mood – you can find a party to go to on campus, but there are tons of other things to do on weekends.
Louis - Bensenville/Wood Dale, IL
What is Notre Dame's study abroad program like? What countries participate in the study abroad program and when do students normally obtain the opportunity to partake in the program?
ND Admissions
We offer programs throughout Western Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australia. Students typically go for a semester during the junior year—there is some variation on this depending on the program. You can find more information here .
Maria - Birmingham, AL
What is the max. number of credit hours a student can have from AP courses?
ND Admissions
Maria, there is a maximum of 30 AP credits that can be applied toward a Notre Dame degree.
Phil - , MI
When I filled out the application I stated English Literature/History as my major, but since have changed my mind to Chemistry...Is there going to be any problems switching majors
ND Admissions
Whn you applied to Notre Dame, Phil, you indicated what you thought might be your major, but you were not admitted with commitment to that major. So you may spend the first year here determining what will be your best suited major, be it English, history or chemistry. You will enter the appropriate college at the end of your first year here.
Carolyn - Carmel, IN
What effects does the single-sex dorm situation have on relationships / social life at ND?
ND Admissions
Hey Carolyn!
the single sex dorm life can affect you as much or as little as you want it to—you just have to reach out a little bit to make guy-friends. it doesnt make things awkward at all—it is just a pain when you have to walk outside in the winter to see your guy friends instead of just running down the hall :)
Chrissy - Montville, NJ
Are dorms usually open over breaks? And if they close, will they re-open early for student athletes?
ND Admissions
Hi Chrissy, The dorms remain open over all breaks (fall, Thanksgiving, spring, and Easter) except for Christmas break. Quite a few students stay on campus for breaks. If you are staying at ND over the summer, you will apply for summer housing, but you may end up in a different dorm than the one you live in during the academic year. I know that you will probably move in early in the fall depending on your sport. After Christmas break, however, the dorms do not re-open until the Sunday when everyone comes back. If your team asks you to come early, they will find you alternate living arrangements before the dorm re-opens.
Emily - Greenville, SC
Does Notre Dame offer women's rowing as an intramural sport? How do you become involved in it?
ND Admissions
Hi Emily,
For women, there is not an intramural program, but you can be on the varsity team, even if you are not a recruited athlete. If you’ve never rowed before, your first year is a novice year, where you get taught the basics. After that you can train with the varsity team.
