Written by Morgan Randall
Notre Dame is one of those places where you either love it or hate it. For many, it is seen as a mostly academic school. So if you're looking for a huge social life or a "party school," this isn't the place for you. Sure, there are events/activities on campus, but not many that appeal to the students. Often, events that have potential fail because people don't want to participate. School spirit is lacking, so that lessens the excitement and makes us more disjointed as a campus. Academically, students are usually very satisfied with the College. They enjoy the small class sizes and the caring nature of the professors, as well as their teaching styles. General education requirements, though extensive, can be very interesting and even a break from the classes within students' majors. Being a liberal arts college, the College requires extra classes to make students well-rounded in their education.
Notre Dame is not among the most well-known colleges around, even locally. So get used to people mistaking you with the “Fighting Irish” (University of Notre Dame in Indiana) or being recognized as “the one next to Loyola.” It’s not one of those schools that will land you a job just because of its name. Overall, Notre Dame's small campus, caring professors, and campus community provide for a unique experience; however, if you're looking for a campus with lots of athletics, an exciting dorm life, and active organizations, then this may not be the campus for you.