Santa Clara University

Date: Dec 16 2005
Major: History/Histories (art history/etc.) (This Major's Salary over time)
I didn't proof read this, excuse the gramatical/spelling errors

I got into Santa Clara on an athletic scholarship and thought that the athletic program was rewarding and one of the best in the country. I met some great people through sports but I don't think that I would have been good frienbs with the majority of the "normal" students. A lot of them came from affluent families and were stuck up. I can easily say that the custodial staff there had to put up with a lot seeing as the students living on campus straight out of H.S. are used to having maids or mommy cleaning up for them. It shows when the cleaning and maintinance staff is always on strike.

I am not a minority student, but I can understand why a minority student would be uncomfortable at SCU. The student population is not diverse and the majority of the students came from private high schools that were not diverse either. I have talked about the issue of diversity with several multi-ethinicity students and they say that they had a hard time adjusting to the atmosphere at SCU and have felt uncomfortable on many occasions. I'm not trying to sound benevolent or anything I'm just trying to give a real assesment.

On a positive note, the school is the most attractive campus I have ever been to. The school caters to its students as individuals, the private school feeling. Going through the residence dept or seeing a professor is very accesible. The president sends emails to the students and there are many opportunities to get involved and see visiting guests. They have really interesting guest lecturers, although I'm usually to lazy to go.

It would be a really fun party school but since the school helped fund to have a Santa Clara police station built right across the street, most parties break up by 12. The student living area off campus is totally within walking distance which is a plus. Average to somewhat expensive housing. San Jose is really close so you can get the urban experience if you want. And San Fransico is like a 40min drive which is great.

I transferred after two years for personal reasons but i could have stayed at SCU for 2 more yrs and been happy. It's really pricey so try to get out as soon as you can. I have met plenty of people who got their degree in 3 yrs.

Many interesting people if you look for them. Or you can easily stay in the SCU bubble, join a greek organization, and stick your head in the ground for 5 yrs. It depends on what you are looking for.

If you like a small community feel and like having a personal relationship with your professors, administrators, and going to school at a gorgeous/snooty campus. THEN SCU IS FOR YOU.