User Profile
DrowsyThespian
Muhlenberg College '13
Majoring in English
Member since 9/22/2010
B+
Off-Campus Through the School
Muhlenberg College provides off-campus housing that can actually be acquired through the Office of Residential Services. They basically rent you a house! From what I've heard and seen, the houses are in good quality (and the fact that the campus with still help you with any technical problems is also good!). They are a little farther away than regular dorms, but they're still on the same street around the school. Also, room and board is also a little higher if you decide to live in off-campus housing, but it's not a ridiculous amount.
Sep 21, 2010
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B
You Can Avoid the Alcohol
Basically, if you want to find alcohol on campus you'll find it, but I think that's true with any school. It isn't a Saturday night without seeing someone intoxicated walking down the street or hear a party on your floor. If you're not into that though, it's easy enough to avoid and still have a social life.
Sep 21, 2010
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Fairness Is a Virtue
I wouldn't say the school is leniant with their punishment: they're fair. If you're caught in the act, there will be repurcussions. If you get caught at a part where you weren't drinking, though, you can testify and take a breathilizer that will prove your point and this will be noted in all reports. Also, if someone is really, seriously sick from alcohol you can bring that friend to campus safety and you will not be penalized because at that point they're just worried about getting you friend to the hospital.
Sep 21, 2010
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Victor's Lament on the College...
Victor's Lament on the College lawn
Victor's Lament, created by artist Mark di Suvero, was bought by the College and placed in its current position on the front lawn. This is a popular place for students to do things such as play Frisbee, do homework, or simply relax from a busy day of classes.
Egner Chapel
Egner Chapel
Egner Chapel is the only chapel located on campus. Few people are aware that the Egner Chapel is an exact replica of the chapel on Princeton University's campus. The only difference is that Muhlenberg's chapel is one half the size of Princeton's, right down to the light fixtures!
Martin Luther Quad
Martin Luther Quad
This is the enchanting view that greets anyone living in the East and Martin Luther dormitories. This area is usually packed to the brim every night on the weekends—even freshmen manage to find their way over to this primarily upperclassman area.
The Bookstore
The Bookstore
The College's bookstore is not just a place for students to purchase their books for the semester: it's a place to buy anything and everything 'Berg. Students buy various versions of school pride–from sweatshirts to notebooks to socks–that they can display around campus. There isn't a single day that you don't see someone dressed in Muhlenberg regalia!
The Red Door
The Red Door
The Red Door is "the" place to hang out during the week. Not only is it home to Sandella's–one of the eating facilities on campus–but it also provides a performance space for student performers. Most of the school improv groups perform in the space, and it is also home to the yearly Gay Straight Alliance Drag Show.
The Baker Center for the Arts
The Baker Center for the Arts
The Baker Center for the Arts is home to anything, well, artsy. All of the art studios are located in this building, and the building is also home to the resident art gallery that is changed a few times a semester. The English and music departments also call this building their home, and can be found in various "nook and cranny" classrooms.
Academic Row
Academic Row
Academic Row, as it is known by students, is where the majority of classes takes place. Students walk down this row multiple times a day—not just to get to classes, but to get to the Campus Restaurant, as well! It's fortunate that this area is so beautiful, otherwise these constant walks wouldn't be so pleasurable.
Parents Plaza
Parents Plaza
Parents Plaza is a new addition to the school—its official opening was in 2009! Outdoor tables make it the best place to eat a quick lunch in between classes, or just to hang out and talk with friends. If the weather is nice, you may also catch one of the many on-campus groups perform an impromptu show.
Henry Melchior Muhlenberg and...
Henry Melchior Muhlenberg and the Bell Tower
As one might guess, the College was named in honor of Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, the father of the Lutheran religion in the United States. His statue is displayed proudly in front of the Haas College Center. Haas is also home to the campus bell tower, which chimes every hour, playing the Alma Mater at noon and 6 p.m. everyday.
One of the Happiest Teachers
One of the Happiest Teachers
Most of the teachers on campus engage their students and will not lecture at them for the duration of the class. They're more focused on making students think than putting them to sleep!
Homecoming Weekend
Homecoming Weekend
Homecoming is a very big deal on campus. All students meet in the gymnasium and have the biggest pep rally of the year. Not only that, but all of the performance groups have their first show of the year—from the cheerleaders to the College's step team! It's a time to show school pride (something this school has plenty of).
Trips
Trips
Students are not just limited to campus—there are many ways to get out and about! Many students enjoy taking a bus to New York City for the day, while others prefer to visit the "City of Brotherly Love" Philadelphia for the evening. Wherever students go, they are certain to have a good time.
How to Get Where You Need to...
How to Get Where You Need to Go
How does one get off campus? For the majority of students, the answer is: walk. Freshmen are not permitted to have cars on campus, and some upperclassmen choose not to bring cars. Of course, the school shuttle does provide local transportation, but it is simpler to create your own hours and walk to where you need to be.
Going Off Campus With the...
Going Off Campus With the Department
Every semester, the theatre department takes its students into New York to several shows—ones that will greatly influence the students. Most recently, the department chose to see "La Bête," as well as "The Little Foxes." This trip provides an opportunity for students to have fun off campus, as well as be educated by the greats of Broadway—it's a win-win situation!
Around Allentown
Around Allentown
Allentown is a culturally diverse city. Most of this can be seen in the Allentown Farmers' Market, located next door to the College. Students can savor regional and fresh cuisine, or merely chat with "townies." It is a wonderful way to get off campus and have fun but still remain nearby.
Classes
Classes
Classes are very intimate at Muhlenberg College. Most classes are discussion-based—which is good! Teachers prefer to lead students to the correct answers and not lecture at them for hours on end. These are classes that want students involved and thinking on their feet.
Trexler Pavilion
Trexler Pavilion
Trexler Pavilion, more commonly known as the "Fish Bowl," is home to the theatre department on campus. All Muhlenberg Theatre Association meetings are held in this glass dome and even some dance rehearsals. When not in use, some students even flock here to do homework or generally to goof off.
Campus Restaurant
Campus Restaurant
The Campus Restaurant opened during the 2010-2011 school year. Not only is the food delicious, but it also meets several dietary needs—whether you're vegetarian, kosher, or gluten-free. The Campus Restaurant is also becoming a new hangout on campus, what with its new fireplace and cozy seating spaces.
Dorney Park
Dorney Park
Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom is a great place to go and ride some roller coasters. The good news—it's right down the street from the College! By driving only five minutes away, students are able to spend the day in the park at a discounted price!
Dorney Park's "Haunt"
Dorney Park's "Haunt"
Looking for an extra scare around Halloween? You're in luck! Muhlenberg College offers discounted tickets for Dorney Park's Halloween Haunt, where students are treated to haunted houses galore. Need to blow off some steam? Then, this is the place to go right after midterms.
Friends are your family
Friends are your family
Friends at college can be the most important thing, and this holds true at Muhlenberg College. What's nice about Muhlenberg, though, is that due to its small size—around 2,200 students—your friends become your extended family. You go everywhere with these people, from dinner to off-campus adventures.
Speakers
Speakers
Muhlenberg College tries to provide students with relevant speakers throughout the year. In 2010, Judy Shepard, mother of Matthew Shepard who was murdered in Laramie, Wyo., spoke to students about supporting LGBT rights as a part of National "Coming Out" Day.
Dorm Life
Dorm Life
Dorms on campus are what you would expect from any college dorm; they're not five-star hotel quality. This doesn't mean they aren't comfortable and can't become a second home. Students can decorate their new living space any way they want, making it cozy and fun!
Halloween on the Town
Halloween on the Town
The campus does like to take part in Halloween. It's common to see people walking around in costumes starting the Friday before. Students will also wear them around town—to the movies, restaurants, and other local hot spots.
The Art Gallery
The Art Gallery
Muhlenberg is very lucky to have an on-site art gallery. The gallery is home to several traveling shows a semester, and even some work created by resident professors. Students also have the opportunity to display their work in the student gallery, creating a professional atmosphere for beginning art majors.
Honoring the Students
Honoring the Students
Every year, a ceremony is held to honor first-year Dean's List honorees. Many professors make it a point to attend this ceremony.
Family Weekend
Family Weekend
Family Weekend is something everyone looks forward to every year. The College plans lots of events from informative lectures to giving out bobble heads to keep everyone entertained and happy over the weekend.
The Great Allentown Fair
The Great Allentown Fair
Every year toward the beginning of first semester, the Great Allentown Fair takes place down the street from the College. The Fair has carnival rides, games, and performers. The performers in 2010 included Jeff Dunham and Justin Bieber.
A Dining Experience To...
A Dining Experience To Remember
It is not uncommon to find a group of students to dress up and go out to dinner together on the weekends. Students can easily get to T.G.I. Friday's, Carrabba's, and Friendly's via the shuttle.
A Comedian a Year
A Comedian a Year
Every year, the College brings one comedian and one band to campus. In 2009, the comedian was Ben Bailey, better known as the "Cash Cab Guy."
Freshman Dorms
Freshman Dorms
Freshman dorms tend to be a bit smaller than those for upperclassmen, but there is still enough room to function and spend time with friends. A downside: Only one freshman dorm is air conditioned.
Theatre
Theatre
Muhlenberg is known for its theatre program, but a student does not have to be a theatre major in order to participate. There are opportunities for everyone, from the most experienced actors to beginners.
First-Year Seminar
First-Year Seminar
The first day of orientation is when students meet their first-year seminar group. These students all share a similar interest and will meet three times a week to attend a class on that topic. This group acts as a support group for the first few months of college life.
Snow is Big
Snow is Big
Muhlenberg is located in Pennsylvania, so snow is rampant during the winter. In 2009, the College closed for the first time in years due to record snowfall. This didn't stop students from heading to the nearest hill, taking a lunch tray, and going sledding.
Spring Weather
Spring Weather
Spring is the best time to be on campus. The college green is a beautiful place to study when all the trees are in bloom and the weather is mild.
Sack Attack
Sack Attack
Every year, the movement class does what is called a "sack attack." Students place themselves in colorful bags and have to express emotion using only their bodies. Of course, these people then cause mayhem within the student union, which is always good for a laugh.
Off-Campus Bowling
Off-Campus Bowling
Bowling is a fun activity—one that becomes even more fun when you add black lights and rock music. Playdrome, located about five minutes away from the College, is cheap and easy to get to. Not to mention, their black-light bowling is offered at a discounted price via the College!
The Community
The Community
Something noticeable about the College is that no one ever seems to walk alone. The school is so small that no matter where a person goes, they're bound to know someone. This small school provides a really strong sense of community due to this campus-wide friendship.
Sports
Sports
Sports are big at Muhlenberg. It is not unusual to see a team go to the playoffs—and even win them! The football team even won the Centennial Conference a few years ago. 'Berg is a place that is proud of its athletes.
And the Snow Continues
And the Snow Continues
Snow has a way of making the campus look like a Christmas card. The school doesn't shut down normally due to snow, which makes the quickly-shoveled paths a necessity.
Birthdays
Birthdays
Birthdays are big on campus: Most RAs will announce when a birthday occurs on their floor. As a special bonus, parents can even send their kids a cake, like the one seen here.
Pets are Allowed
Pets are Allowed
Students can have pets on campus, as long as they remain in water and have no way of getting out! Many students have fish, and some even go all out and get giant fish tanks!
Relay for Life
Relay for Life
Every year the college holds its annual Relay for Life. Students camp out in the Scotty Wood Stadium and continually walk laps in order to raise money for cancer research. All money goes to a great charity and students get to spend time with friends, so there's no downside!
Gaming is a Must
Gaming is a Must
Gaming is big on campus, whether it is on the Wii, Xbox, or PlayStation. Tournaments happen year-round, either officially or in dorm rooms. In November, the school even hosts Novemberfest where the library is turned into a gaming hub that's free to all students.
The Diverstiy of Holidays
The Diverstiy of Holidays
The student body is nearly evenly split between Catholic, Jewish, and Protestant, so holidays on campus are diverse. Professors have been known to cancel class due to Jewish high holidays in case students wish to be with their families.
New Fraternities
New Fraternities
If someone chooses not to join a fraternity or sorority, there is another option: community service frats! APO and KKPsi are both on campus and recruiting new members, like the KKPsi pledge class seen here.
Cars for Upperclassmen
Cars for Upperclassmen
Upperclassmen are allowed to have cars on campus, but a permit is required. Freshmen can either make friends with upperclassmen that have cars or take the free shuttle that is provided by the school.
Student Advisors
Student Advisors
Student Advisors are chosen every year to help with each First Year Seminar that freshmen must attend. These SAs will remain with the freshmen the entire year and help them get situated with college life and homework.
Freshman Dorm
Freshman Dorm
The freshman dorms vary in that they are either narrow or wide; the one pictured here is the wide version. All freshman dorms come equipped with essential furniture, while fridges and personal touches must be provided by the students.
Getting What You Need
Getting What You Need
It's very easy for students to get food for their dorms. Not only is there a Giant Food Store down the street, but a Wegmans is five minutes away.