Aquinas College
Grand Rapids, MI, USA

Reviews

Aquinas College

Running Guy

a current student here
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers here are really focused on helping students learn and are always open to discuss any problems you have. Also, the classes are stimulating and very interesting. Classes are small and everyone knows each other in the class and this helps people be able to talk during class and actually encourages learning.
Am enjoying being here
There is always something to do at Aquinas; either going downtown or hanging our around the cafe. The clubs that are offered here are great and cover so many bases. I run cross country and track, and the teammates have become my family, and it was thanks to joining the club. It has a very relaxing atmosphere and I can't think of a better place to go to.
Bang for the buck
The education here is great and you can really tell the teachers care for you. It is a little bit more expensive to attend here but the small classes are really worth it. The teachers learn your name really quickly and it creates an atmosphere that encourages participation in the class.
Tips for prospective students
Get involved with any clubs you are interested in, this will really help you enjoy your experience.
Great for these types of students
The small school types, not a lot of people attend here but that is what makes it great.

Alyssa from Grand Rapids, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I love having the opportunity to learn about subjects in a whole new angle. Classes are a challenge but they challenge you so that you may become an overall well-rounded individual.
Am enjoying being here
Aquinas is the perfect size for me. It's not like a big ten school where you see someone once and never see them again. Also, when you meet a friend in a class and want to study together; the campus isn't too spread out that you have to take a bus to meet up. Faces easily become familiar and friends are easy to make. The faculty and staff are what make the Aquinas community so genuine because the truely have interest in making your education more positive. Oh and one more thing, the landscaping and location is my favorite. I've lived in Grand Rapids my whole life and it's mainly highways, skyscrapers, roads and parking ramps have always been the same ol' same. However ever since I've been at Aquinas I realized we have our very own Central Park in GR! Which is here, home at Aquinas. This is the place where you can find every native Michgan tree, a million squirrels and alternative hiking trails through the forrests to go to class.
Bang for the buck
The food is awesome whether you want something kind of like home, a salad or even popcorn shrimp. The price may be high but I believe it's worth paying for. I am a student putting myself through college and without my parents assistance because I wanted the best education possible at a place that suites me best. I can definitely tell you, it's worth my 3 part time jobs.
Tips for prospective students
Use the faculty and staff, they are here for you and are easily available with offices on campus. Get involved in a club, get a campus job or join an intermueral sport so that you stayed involved and become an active member to the Aquinas community. Stay active and take advantage of the Fitness Center. Your body is important to maintain in order to keep a good balance of school and health.

Tessa from Hudsonville, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At Aquinas I am a student in the nursing program. This is an amazing program to be a part of. The nursing program at Aquinas is through the University of Detroit Mercy. Not only do we get to learn about things that are directly related to this field of study in class we get to see things hands on. The professor at Aquinas are extremely helpful they go above and beyond their call of duty to help their students become successful. The smaller class sizes allows for the professors to work with us on an individual level and allows for a relationship to be established, making it easier to get involved in class lectures.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy being at Aquinas. The campus is so beautiful, all the older buildings and the work that went into them is breathtaking. In the Fall the campus is gorgeous, Aquinas is known for its trees and in the fall when the trees change colors the campus is breathtaking. There are so many different activities that you can be apart of and the people who are apart of the campus both the students and faculty make it a comfortable place to learn.
Bang for the buck
Aquinas is a rather expensive college, however, the education one leaves here with is definitely worth the money spent to go here. The professors educate in a way that makes you feel comfortable taking what you have learned out into the real world and putting what you have learned into practice.
Tips for prospective students
Aquinas is an amazing school to be apart of. Don't be afraid to go to your professors and ask for help, they are your friends and they want to see you succeed so they will do what they can in order to help you. Participation is key, professors like to see you get involved and be passionate about the things they are lecturing on. Aquinas has many great programs and the small class size is ideal for establishing relationships with your professors and for ensuring your comfortable with what you have learned
Great for these types of students
Aquinas is a well rounded school, many different programs make up this campus. if you like to learn things hands on and like to establish one on one relationships with professors Aquinas is the place to be. They have a great nursing program and you can start off learning directly about nursing as a freshman which is amazing all in itself.

Molly from Marine City, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Aquinas has broadened my perspective on the world. The professors are great, yet challenging. Each professor has their own way of educating, but they all make sure you're understanding the material and are always available for help and questions. They never underestimate you or make you feel as if you cannot achieve your goal. I have never once felt stupid asking a professor a question. All the encouragement has provided me a stable learning environment where I can believe in myself. Also, the classes only have about 30 or less people in them. That allows for quality time with your professors. They really get to know you and understand you if you have any problems. This made the transition from high shcool to college a lot easier for me. I have certainly learned a lot here at Aquinas.
Am enjoying being here
In the summer the trees are changing to beautiful fall colors and in the winter the campus is gently covered in glistening snowfall. But, no matter what the campus is covered in smiles. The people here are very accepting and I've never felt out of place. The classrooms are small enough that it is easy to be close to people and make friends. I also highly reccomend living in the dorms because there are tons of activites to participate in year round. In the winter the snow is always shoveled and plowed before classes so you don't have to worry about your brisk morning walk to class being hectic. I have never been happier in my life than attending the Aquinas Campus.
Bang for the buck
Yes, I will be blunt. This college is costly. However, you will not meet people like the individuals here on campus, students and faculty. Everyone is so helpful and very caring. Also, the education here is extremely beneficial. The job turnout is on the higher end of the scale. AQ also offers many helpful programs to learn how to interview, achieve success, protect yourself, better your health, and have fun. This college is definitly worth every penny I own.
Tips for prospective students
OK. I know that most prospective students are nervous about the tuition. But, I'm honestly saying that I come from a family that is tight with money. Do not let it scare you or hold you back. There are loans and scholarships (like the ones on Appily.com) that are here to help you pay for your education. Never let money hold you back from the education you deserve. There are ways to pay. I will say that you can trust in AQ College to accurately prepare you for your future. And lastly, you can do anything you put your mind to.
Great for these types of students
- Students with a desire for knowledge
- Students who want to feel safe and comfortable on campus
- Students that prefer smaller one-on-one classes
- Students with a drive to succeed

Marissa from Grand Rapids, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here are amazing. Because of the smaller class sizes, they actually learn your names and can interact with you and help you with whatever you need! I would feel SO lost in the crowd if I went to a larger school that classes the size of auditoriums. I have the opportunity to speak my mind and ask the questions that I need to.
Am enjoying being here
Aquinas has an amazing campus. The land was owned by a former lumberjack many, many years ago, and his beautiful forest is still a wonderful sight, just on the outskirts of Grand Rapids. Being only one short bus ride from the city, I can go to the huge events, malls, and public library in addition to the tons of events that are hosted here right on campus! Many people believe that having such a small campus would be boring, but it's simply more concentrated!
Bang for the buck
Face value, Aquinas is an expensive school being 31,000 per year. But in reality, lots of people receive big scholarships, making it LESS than most other schools in Michigan, which is extremely surprising to most prospective students.

Biology

a current student here
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The professors are amazing and care, but the student life is a little dead, the administration is too controlling, and there is nothing going on for the weekends. They need visitor parking and better housing opportunities.
Tips for prospective students
It is not a strong Catholic school, and fairly free thinking for a religious school.
What to do for fun
There are students events, but not at night or during the weekends. ArtPrize in Grand Rapids is fun.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Spoon Lickers is a great ice cream shop with non-dairy options. Yesterdog has delicious food.
Great for these types of students
Catholic and non-Catholic both.
Teachers. Nurses. Business and political science majors.
German program is awesome.
Campus Safety
Sometimes they are overbearing.

Amanda from Rockford, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Aquinas college is very small. However this provides a close community. It has great teachers.
Tips for prospective students
Study hard
What to do for fun
great events for free around campus, very close to downtown grand rapids
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
painting the spirit rock!
Great for these types of students
students looking for a small college with a close community
Clubs and Activities
many different clubs and opportunities to get involved around campus!
Greek Life
Non-existent

Michael from Holland, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Centrally located between East Grand Rapids, East town, and Ottawa Hills lies the campus of Aquinas College. Rooted in Catholicism (Dominican), Aquinas College offers the traditional liberal arts approach towards higher education. With graduating classes smaller than most modern day high school graduating classes, its appeal is obvious to the student who enjoys the best parts of an urban social environment combined with a private school feel.
Tips for prospective students
Tip 1 - Live on Campus, make friendships.
Tip 2 - Seek out scholarships.
Academic Rigor
4 stars.
Dorm Life
Aquinas recently upgraded some of their dorm room facilities.
Food and Dining
Gluten free, organic meals are seen with a high regularity.
What to do for fun
East town and the downtown area of Grand Rapids are so close, students should (if they have the time) visit here. On campus athletic options have changed with the newly constructed Sturrus Fitness Center.

Abigale from Manistee, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I absoutely love Aquinas College! It is a small school and you get the feeling of a close-knit family on campus here. All of the teachers that I have had have been great- they really care about their students!
Tips for prospective students
Don't let the religious affliation scare you off! Aquinas is a very open-minded college and we encourage individualism. This college is great because of its size and you feel that home-like connection.
Academic Rigor
As long as you are willing to work hard, this school shouldn't be a problem for you! Professors notice if you put in effort, and they are always willing to help. Free tutoring is great as well.
Dorm Life
The Freshmen dorms are depressing, I am not going to lie! However Living Learning Community houses and apartments are available to upperclassmen, and those are extremely nice!
Food and Dining
The cafeteria food is... edible most days. You will, without a doubt, grow tiresome of eating at the Wege Center. Orders are made fresh at The Corner Cafe, and that is a much better alternative than the cafeteria food at Wege.
What to do for fun
Grand Rapids is a great area! Aquinas is great because it is in the city but it seems far enough away because we are surrounded by woods. For fun I personally enjoy going out to nightclubs, hitting up Art Prize, testing new restaurants, joining in on on-campus events, and thrift shopping.
Bang for the buck
I simply love this college! The people are extremely friendly and it is infectious to get involved in different clubs and events.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Before Aquinas was a college, a prominant rich family lived in the Holmdene building. They were so prominant in fact that President Roosevelt stayed a night here! It is rumored to be one of the most haunted buildings in Michigan, so it is fun to go ghost-hunting!
Great for these types of students
We really embrace individualism here at Aquinas! It is pretty much for anyone- there is a variation of different clubs on campus. Anything you are looking for you can find here, and we encourage the formation of new clubs as well.
Clubs and Activities
I am personally involved in BRAVO! (drama club), the environmental club, the writting club, and student council. There is always an opportunity to start your own club- I know there is a Zombie Apocalypse club and Polish Appreciation club on campus!
Greek Life
There is no Greek Life at Aquinas.
Campus Safety
You always see Campus Safety everywhere you go! They are always willing to give you rides in golf carts or walk you place-to-place.

Rachel from Warren, MI

a current student here
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Aquinas offers a great learning environment on its campus; just outside the city of Grand Rapids, this enclosed, wooded area is simply beautiful. The professors are here to help and show great enthusiasm while teaching. Even though it is a smaller college, there are always fun activities being planned, such as concerts, sporting events, and speakers.
Tips for prospective students
Do the research to make sure a small, liberal arts college is for you. While this type of environment works for many, others do not find a smaller school appealing.
Academic Rigor
The academic rigor at Aquinas really does depend on the classes you take. The school offers a great honors program which requires you to take some challenging classes, but these have proven to be my favorite so far. The school also offers many fun electives which are not as rigorous as general education classes. While the classes can be challenging, the professors are always available to help when needed.
Dorm Life
The dorm life has proven to be the best experience for me at this school. Although the dorms for freshman are somewhat small compared to many other colleges, I have made friends with most people in the building. My floor hangs out together all of the time and we have become very close. We also have a lounge area on our floor that we decorate for every season and that people spend much time in. I absolutely love living in the dorm, and I am looking forward to moving into the on campus apartments next year.
Food and Dining
While I enjoy the cafeteria food, many others complain that there are not enough options. We have a main cafeteria, a corner restaurant, and a cafe known as The Moose. There are many food places off of campus, but it would be nice if there was another food option on campus. The food options at night are limited, so many people get food delivered to the dorms.
What to do for fun
As stated, the school puts on many fun activities throughout the year. There is actually something going on every night. The city of Grand Rapids is practically down the street which provides many opportunities at night. There are clubs, restaurants, and bars downtown for those who are old enough. There are also many lakes and parks nearby which provide much entertainment in the summer.
Bang for the buck
The school is expensive but do not let the initial price scare you off. The school gives out TONS of money for scholarships. Scholarships have actually cut the price nearly in half for me.
Clubs and Activities
The clubs and activities are awesome and there are so many to choose from. The only downside is that the school does not have a football team. There is a school about 5 minutes away that does have a team though, and many people choose to go to these games.
Greek Life
Unfortunately, there is no Greek life at Aquinas.
Campus Safety
The campus safety team at the school is awesome. They work around the clock to make sure that every student feels as safe as possible. They also provide a free service where they will pick you up from anywhere a mile or less from campus, no matter what time of day.