Reviews

Classes here are challenging, certainly, but we're not paying private school tuition to take easy classes! Of course, the level of difficulty per class depends on the prof and the type of class (101 vs. Honors 311), but overall expect to have to work for your grades. If you're willing to do the work and show up for class, it won't be hard. The profs are great and ALWAYS available for help, and with our Writing Center one can always get help with papers, so even difficult assignments are totally manageable.

Everything I need is just a short walk away! The resources offered here and at SJU are excellent. The other students are great people, though there aren't too many alternative personalities here (i.e. goths, skaters, punks, bohemians, etc). I've met great people here, made life-long friends, and feel that CSB is offering me all the resources I need and more. The beautiful campus and nice dorms are definitely a nice bonus!

Let's be honest; this is a private school, so tuition is going to be high. However, most of the people I know here are NOT from wealthy families! The majority of the students at CSB/SJU come from middle-class working families. Providing the Board of Admissions feels your transcript is good, you're likely to receive a scholarship and/or work study (wherein you work for the school, and the money you earn goes toward paying tuition). I had a 3.6 GPA in high school and got a $13,000/yr scholarship!

Everything here is worth paying tuition, though! The courses are wonderful, profs are interesting and know your name, and the buildings and campuses are beautiful, SAFE, and very well taken care of. And because everyone asks, YES, the food here is delicious! You're absolutely getting what you pay for.

As tuition is always an issue, make yourself as eligible for a scholarship as possible; the Board likes to see good grades, an active extracurricular life, and VOLUNTEERING! At CSB, you will here about the Benedictine Values a lot, so if your application reflects these, you're golden. Read about them here: http://www.csbsju.edu/benedictines/values.htm

If you're even considering studying abroad, make CSB/SJU a top college choice, as our study abroad program is EXCELLENT! Here, we don't ask you IF you're going to study abroad; we ask WHEN you're going to study abroad. I'm leaving for my France program in two weeks!

Are you looking for a more personal college experience? Smaller class size, not being able to walk anywhere without someone recognizing you and saying hi? If yes, CSB is for you.

CSB is located in a small, quiet town that is very close to a city, so at the same time we enjoy the relaxing St. Joseph area, and when need to go shopping or have a night on the town, St. Cloud is just five minutes away! It's win-win.

Yes, it is true that I am learning, though it is hard. I am majoring in Nursing, but people don't give up when I say it is hard. Of course, everywhere that you go will be hard, but never give up. That is the statement for myself Never Give Up. Honestly, I believe that if you really is passionate about what you want to become or the career you choose, you can do it. The first semester was hard for me, but I made it through. However, I didn't pass by Biology course to continue on my nursing planned course, but there are still many option for me to choose and continue my path. I am still passionate about nursing, though I know that I am just taking my journey a different route before I come back to my dream. As I would say is that you will learn a lot if you choose to, but if not, you will say that you did not learn a thing.

There are so many opportunities here that you have no clue which one to start with. It is your choice to the path that you want to take and many clubs that you choose to participate. I always believe that things will always be fun if you make it fun and enjoyable.

Private college will have a higher cost of tuition, but don't worry. There are many scholarships, grants, and loans out there in the world to support and help you through college. It is your choice if you want to apply for them scholarship, grant or loans. I didn't think that I can pay for the tuition at College of Saint Benedict, but I did. I have apply and apply to as many scholarship as I can and I made it. I don't even have to pay for my first year in college. However, I am worried about my sophomore year in college, but I know that there are many scholarship out there. I just need to find it and apply. Everything depends on yourself if you work hard for it or become lazy and get to pay the full tuition out of your pocket and loans.

One of the best tip is to have fun and study hard. I'll advice anyone who is having trouble in class, should immediately seek help from their professor. As you may already have heard from other college students' saying that don't be afraid to speak to your professor. Also if you need more time on tests or need a tutor to help you on any course subject, all you need to do is ask. Asking others to help you is very supportive and makes life a lot easier if you need help just ask. Also when you are at College of Saint Benedict take all the adventure you have and just remember to balance your time. College is all about time management, too. If you are heading to college, too, hope you will choose the school that you feel it is right for you.

I would say that this school is great for any students who want to attend small size class. It is a good school and I believe all colleges are good, but everyone who decided to attend whatever college they choose will still have to study hard and have fun. As long as you are committed and know that this school is your passion college ,after reviewing the class size and knowing that it is private college, than it is the right one for you.

College of Saint Benedict is the best place, I could ever imagine myself as being a part of. I love the atmosphere; being able to look up and see a church close to me right on campus. I also appreciate all the help professors give to students, given class size.

Stay on an overnight visit, specially if you will be far away from home.

We have activities for our hall at least once a month, which make us come together. Our dorms are also a very comfortable size.

As freshmen and sophomores we have an unlimited dining plan, we have various options which is appreciated. We are also able to contact dining services if we are having food and dining issues.

Attend a lecture, a performance, a club, walk around the lake. There are so many activities on a daily bases with sometimes not enough time to do all of them.

We have a bus that brings us back and forth with Saint Johns University, when the bus stops to unload, everyone should stay seated until it is your turn to get up.

Great for any student looking for a safe-feeling community.

If you want to have a club that is not available, all you need is eight people to start it!

Not any.

There are emergency phones all over campus, we are also always able to call security if we feel unsafe.

the college of saint benedict and saint john's university is a wonderful school. it has one of the most beautiful campuses, and being surrounded by about 6 lakes there's and hundreds of acres there's always plenty to do and to see. the student to professor ratio is low and allows for easy access to the professor, and they have a genuine interest in seeing their students succeed, and it's very easy to grow your professional network.

if you plan on attending csbsju i strongly recommend it. there are a lot of great resources here, such as, career resource center, academic advising, and pretty much everyone one of your profs, and you should definitely take advantage of them. and try courses you're interested in, even if they don't go with your major.

none of the courses are overly difficult assuming that you have interest in the topic, and you're willing to put in the work. some of the courses do require more work than others, but they are all rewarding to finish, and you learn so much in them. also the liberal arts aspect is nice because it gets you take courses you otherwise might not have.

the freshman and sophomore dorms are close together and its very convenient to spend time with your friends, and visit their dorms. the junior and senior dorms are more spread out as there are more options. most people do abide by the unspoken open door policy, so if you're in your room, and not studying or something, just keep your door open. also if you have your door open at night the life safety officers will hand out free pizza coupons.

the food at the reef is decent, but if you can eat at gorecki. if you need something fast then you have either sexton, or the other one at csb, but mcglynns is probably the best if you have time to head over there.

there's so much to do at csbsju, they constantly have little fliers to show you all the events they have going on. there's usually something on friday or saturday night. on wednesday nights they have praise in the pub. there's countless clubs you can join, and if they don't have one you want, then you can create one. there are a ton of trails to walk on or run on. you can go finishing on the many lakes, or go swimming in lake sag. you can rent a bike or bring your own and bike between the campuses

I can definitely say I am learning! The classes seem to blend into each other, with topics I covered in theology overlapping those I am learning in medieval history. 111 courses, which are the most basic classes for a topic like psychology and chemistry, are typically more difficult than their upper division counterparts, but my advice is don't be discouraged. The teachers here are excellent, and they are always open for discussion at the end of class. Another perk is the class size, averaging around 20 students a class, so everyone is big on open discussions and individual learning; there are office hours for professors, but there's typically no need for them as any questions can be covered in class. I have yet to come across any lecture-style courses with 50 people in the same room, let alone 200 like the bigger schools.

I've definitely come to love the state of Minnesota through my school! The dorms are great and I even have my own room! People will think I'm exaggerating, but it's also true when I say that nearly everyone here is polite and welcoming, and the college has a very loving atmosphere. They try really hard to get students (especially freshmen) involved, and there are certainly enough opportunities to keep busy. A big bonus of living up here is the snow time! Fun doesn't end when the cold weather sets in; the school rents out tons of winter gear like sleds and skis. However, every college has its downside, and there's no avoiding it. My only complaint, coming from California and living in Minnesota, can be homesickness. Not to worry, though, because a quick conversation on skype can cure it!

I was pretty hesitant about paying for a private education plus room and board, but I'm glad I did. I've learned how to depend on myself and live on my own; I've even done my own laundry for the first time while I was here! You get the four-year dormitory experience that you'll never have the opportunity for again, and you won't be all alone. The school really looks out for you here, so you have a new freedom away from your parents but still have someone making sure you don't fail your classes or fall off the face of the earth! They also have a rate of 90% of their students graduating in four years, so you always get the classes you need without paying for an extra year for a bachelor's degree.

Don't turn away just because it seems expensive or had a religious affiliation. I myself am only paying half of my education costs with the school's help, so financial aid is great. And as for this being a Catholic school, there's nothing really to worry about; no one is ever forced into being baptized or even going to church. EVERYTHING here is optional.
Concerning the harsher climate, all you really need is a good pair of boots and a winter coat that can double for rain protection, and you're set. Trust me, your body gets used to the weather change very quickly (this from a southern Californian)!
Also, if you're thinking of applying, get to know Matt Beirne, who works with prospective students and is a wonderful contact to have. He can get you any information you need and is good just to talk to if you're stressed or homesick, so definitely get in touch with him! You can find him through the school's A to Z Index.

Just as a little background, this college is known for it's same sex campuses; boys live on one and girls live on the other, but they mix up classes and cafeterias, so don't dismiss the school because of that. What you should take into consideration is the fact that you are in rural Minnesota. Saint Cloud nearby has a mall and theater plus anything you could ever need, but we are not located in the middle of a bustling city. If that's what you're looking for, you won't find it here. You will find forests and lakes, trails and peace and quiet. Of course there are parties (every weekend in fact), but noise and commotion are more difficult to come by during the week days. This school is idea for the nature girl/boy or the athlete who likes the clean crisp air and serenity. College is fun here too, it just has a more studious atmosphere than the well known party-schools!

CSBSJU is an excellent community oriented school. It focuses on quality of learning instead of a grade. The food at Gorecki is fantastic!

Go to a class you may be interested in. Do an overnight stay with a current student in the dorm. Ask plenty of questions.

The programs are tough, but the professors make them enjoyable and they help out a lot.

The organizations on campus that deal with residential life are fantastic and they are always creating new ways to be involved.

The food is delicious and there is always plenty of variety. The college makes sure you can enjoy a nice sit down meal or grab something to go.

Swim in Lake Sagatagan
Go on the Chapel Walk
Ballroom Dance Club
Intramurals

It is a pricey school, but they deliver results

The Chapel Walk is fabled by Bennies and Johnnies as an indication of the likelihood of marriage. If a Bennie and Johnnie go on the Chapel Walk together, they have a high chance of getting married. The ties into another tradition of Bennies and Johnnies having a high marriage rate.

Highly motivated
Go getters
Extroverts and introverts

There is somewhat of an involvement cult at CSBSJU. Most students are in multiple activities plus sports, music, and rigorous academics.

One sorority: AKS
Service club-no sorority house

Campus is very safe and school security is happy to provide escorts.

this school is full of students who motivate you, professors who challenge you, and experiences that inspire you. the christian values of the school are evident, but in a good way and not forced on anyone. there is such a friendly atmosphere created that everyone feels at home, and there is something on this campus for everyone.

embrace everything there is to offer at this school. there are countless groups and clubs that would love for you to be a part of their group, as well as so many volunteer and work opportunities to build your resume and experience. don't worry about finding a major that's perfect for you right away; most students here take a while to figure it out and explore everything there is to offer.

although my academic rigor rating is high, it's not because there is an excessive amount of essays or homework. it is because the professors here are always challenging you to push past your boundaries and think deeply about the topics.

the atmosphere created in the dorms is so friendly and comforting that everyone feels as home. the ras here do a great job of being involved and making the residents feel secure, and almost all the residents become friends with those they live near.

the food here is incredible. on the st. ben's side, there is a mongolian grill along with home-style, grill, and an ethnic foods station. on the st. john's side there is also grill and home-style, as well as deli and world stations.the food is always prepared fresh and there is a lot of variety, and the seating is very comfortable with booths and high tables like in a nice restaurant.

there is a pub on campus where there is at least one concert every weekend, and it's separated so those who want to drink are upstairs. on the other campus there is a coffee house turned nightclub where there is live music and comfy seating. there are constantly shows being put on my school like comedians, magicians, or events, and we are only ten minutes away from all the places available in st. cloud.

this college is on the expensive side, i know. but i doubt you can find a place more welcoming and fun with the opportunities you'll get out of this school. the kind of people that come here are all very enthusiastic and the amount you learn just in a day is amazing.

we don't really have a mascot for either college. instead, we have the rat pack, a group of guys that dress in crazy outfits of our school colors, paint their faces, and put on random shows throughout the campus before a big game. they lead the cheers in the student section, and pass out random things like pizza or popcorn to the fans.

students who like a close relationship with the professors because of small class sizes will love classes here. those who like to be challenged by their work but not to a ridiculous point will thrive at this school. also, those who like to be involved in clubs, volunteering, or events on campus will have so many choices here. and since everyone here is very involved, they will meet a ton of new people.

if you can think of a club, we probably have it here. there is a ridiculous amount of clubs available for every possible interest. there are clubs about culture, dancing, hobbies, or just discussion groups. every club is always excited to get new members and usually has a chance to show off what they've done throughout the year.

there are two service sororities/fraternities on campus. one is the sorority alpha kappa sigma and the other is a co-ed fraternity delta phi theta. both put on a lot of events and fundraisers throughout the year and are great groups to be a part of.

the security office at st. ben's is in the freshman halls, and there are always security vehicles driving around late at night. once it gets to be about 7pm on weekends, there is always a security officer riding the bus with students. at st. john's the life safety officers are good at making everyone feel safe and checking on the campus regularly.

The College of St. Benedict is a place where learning and being actively involved are things that contribute to the way in which you act on campus. It is an expected characteristic of students on this campus that they study and work hard to accomplish their dreams. The classes are challenging, but you only take as much as you put into them. If you don't work, even if you may pass the class, you will not have learned a whole lot. This school is about putting in above and beyond effort in order to achieve your dreams.

The atmosphere on this campus makes it difficult not to feel entirely at home all the time. There is always something to do on campus, so it is hard to have a dull friday or saturday night, and being busy is a trademark of a student here at CSB/SJU. I cannot think of another school that could better match my lifestyle, values or love of the people around me.

School is expensive. Normally, it would be just fine to work a lot for your education- I appreciate that I need to work in order to pay for it. At the same time though, it sometimes feel as though all I do is work. I got an amazing financial aid package though, and I know consciously that my life isn't as hard as it could be. The bang that I am receiving is worth the time that I put in working to pay off school.

Try not to go home for the first few (try 6!) weeks of school, or until our first fall break. The first weeks of school are the ones in which no one has any friends that are set in stone and everyone is willing to get to know everyone, and who knows--they might just be your best friend! It's important to stay on campus for that.
Try to become involved right away--go to Involvement, the club fair, and find something, or a couple of things, that you can be involved in (and love!) from the very start.

CSB/SJU is great for students who are fun, friendly and interested in getting an education that will question their values. If you love to live in a hospitable, caring atmosphere, CSB/SJU is for you.

Professors are always willing to work with students one on one and class sizes are small so you know who is in your class and ou know your professor. You dont have to rely on a TA.

The people are so nice and it is a really tight community.

Tuition is high because it is a private school, but there is an incredible amount of scholarships that are made available to students. The majority of the student body is on school scholarships.

Everything here is great. If your looking for Minnesota nice, this is the place to go to for college. The view of the campus is beautiful and the atmosphere here is great. Classes are difficult but professors are always willing to help in some way. The only problem with this school is tuition, but Financial Aid will help and applying for scholarships is always a must.

It's tons of fun on this campus. It might be located in a small city, but there is always something to do on weekends in or off campus. The people here always try to keep themselves occupied in some way.

Like I said before, this school is very pricey, but it's worth the experience and there is always scholarships and Financial Aid to help. And guess what, there is at least 2 of everything since there is 2 campuses.

Apply as soon as possible if you are for sure of coming to this school. Aslo apply for as many scholarships as you can!

Anyone looking to go live on their own away from parents, be independent, and meet great people.