psijessie1

Diversity

I feel our campus is very diverse and accepting of different students. Our campus has several ethnic centers, including an Afro-American Cultural center, a Latino cultural center, Asian fraterneties, and a LGBT center-just to name a few. We have several events centered around diversity-giving students the oppurtunity to be exposed to different cultures. Additionally, as far a religion, there are a number of different churches on campus and religous groups. As far as sexual orientation- a transgender fashion show made news in the Daily Iowan. I feel this school is very accepting, and someone who is a ethnic or sexual minority would have no problem fitting in here.

Psychology Department

I truely appreciate the psychology program here. I feel that professors here really know what they are talking about, making me aware of news in the field I was completely ignorant of before. Iowa's ranked number 9 in clinical psych, so I'd recommend our program. There are some professors that are a bore, and others I love listening too. Its basically always that way. Theres also a number of research oppurtunities-which are necessary to go to grad school.

Greek Life

I am not apart of a sorority-but often consider it. Pros are you meet a lot of people, become aware of more parties, and become close with a tight nit group of people. However, its not necessary to go greek to meet people. Also, according to my greek friends-they have a lot of fees and meetings to attend that they rather not deal with. I also hear a lot of negative talk about sorority girls here-basically the slutty stereotype. But greek isnt a status thing here, its def not a big deal whether your in one or not because theres plenty of other parties and events to take part in.

Psychology

The psych program is great- I transfered here so I am able to compare with another school. The entire experience is eye-opening. However, you need to be realistic about your career options. Grad school is not like undergrad-its basically a commitment to being a workaholic for the next 7 years POST grad. If you plan to attend-better make sure you keep your GPA above a 3.5. Also, there are numerious research oppurtinies on campus for psych. Do not expect to get paid for your time and commitment, but do take advantage of this time to make references and gain experience, without this-youll be doomed. This is how is is everywhere. Psych is a popular major, unfortunately most people arn't aware of the realities of it. Be prepared to take Biological Psych and other science based courses-theyre difficult for most in this area- usually science is a weak spot in psych majors who do not realize its becoming more increasing SCIENCE BASED. Basically, do your research, be honest with yourself, and be prepared to work hard.

Computers

There's a lot of computer accessability on campus. There are a number of IT labs in the library-so you never have a problem accessing one. Alot of other buildings have them available as well. Having your own printer is nice-but not neccessary. Also, wireless is available everywhere.

Midwest Blues

Unfortunately, this is the midwest... so we have four seasons. It's a tad annoying walking from building to building in winter, but the bus system is great, so you won't necessarily freeze to death. Lasy year it snowed to much class was cancelled for two days and pizza places wouldnt even deliver it was so bad! Also, the Iowa river floods frequently, it destroyed the old art building, and the first floor of Mayflower, a popular dorm building. Also, a few years back, a tornado destroyed a greek house- but its not like this happens yearly. When its nice, everyone goes out on the pentecrest-a big grassy area that surrounds the 5 main buildings on campus. Its a popular place to lay out, nap, study, play some frisbee, or just hang out.

Rec Center and Library

We JUST got a new rec center. It has beautiful facilities including a rock climbing wall, hot tub, lazy river, pool, top of the line equipment, indoor track, and much more. I love the little cubbies outside the fitness area-you can put your bookbag and what not in there so you can go in between classes. theres also a cafe that offers healthy snacks and protein shakes and smoothies.

The main library is mediocre... the book selection is great- its just not anything pretty or high tech to look at. Theres a little cafe in there to where you can get coffee, sushi, snacks, sandwhiches-which is nice when your studying late. Also... FREE COFFEE DURING FINALS!