Salve Regina University

Date: May 21 2010
Major: History/Histories (art history/etc.) (This Major's Salary over time)
It's very interesting to see some of the negative comments about Salve. Here's the thing, first off:

Salve is a New England medium-small Catholic college, and frankly, schools like this have similarities: expensive, beautiful campus, good location, large upper-middle class to rich white student population.

So, realize that if you're looking at a medium-small Catholic college, the experience you get there will not be the same experience as going to Harvard, NYU, UMass Amherst, UNH or even BC.

My experience at Salve has been wonderful. I've enjoyed most of my classes, have made a great group of friends, and I'm doing well academically. I've finished my sophomore year and will be studying abroad in the fall. And unlike a good amount of students, I didn't go to Catholic school or boarding school. I had gone through public school from elementary to high school, and wanted to go to a Catholic affiliated college.

There are times when I wish some of my classes were harder, or that some of the stereotypical "dumb blondes" wearing Ugg boots would disappear. And when it comes to the administration, I've had both positive and negative experiences. But it's administration; I don't know anyone who's always has a 100% positive experience with bureaucracy of any kind.

But if you allow yourself to be this easily frustrated and focus on these tiny details, you will be miserable!!

A big part of college is that you learn to go after things ON YOUR OWN. Whether it's classes, extracurriculars, friends, going out etc the University will provide, but you have to put in the effort, and sometimes it takes more than what you want to or are used to. That's college.

For myself, I've been able to meet a great group of people that share my interests, are academically motivated, and actually want to make an impact on the world. I've met so many bright and intelligent people that I know are going to do great things. And, Salve students do go out and contribute to society. I know people going to Ivy League and top notch grad schools, going to serve in the Peace Corps, have landed great jobs, internships, and so forth.

The complaining about Salve gets really old. To some people, college= drinking to excess, wild parties and numerous one night stands. And if that's something you really want, feel free to apply to a large university in the big city. You can find stuff like that at Salve, just on a smaller scale.

For me and my friends, college is about academic success, amazing memories and fun. I've found this at Salve, and I don't regret it. Plus, I have to applaud the new president, Sr. Jane. She's a lovely woman who's truly interested in the students and making Salve a great place to be.

Salve still has a long way to go: our student population isn't too diverse, there are concerns about housing, and we are dealing with rising tuition each year. Then again, so are many other schools, but it is coming to a point where I know people who are transferring because of lack of funds, or that funds will run out.

Just remember, after looking at Salve and any other school, truly ask yourself: Can I see myself here? If it's a yes or maybe, continue investigating and comparing. If it's a no, just move on. You'll save yourself a lot of trouble.