Reviews

I admit that this school does wonders with the mind. Thomas Aquinas delves into critical thinking and reading between the text. Although this style of learning works for many people who are vocal, the school also fails to present the application of the argument. Many times, I find myself reading material that I have no interest in, because it does not apply to what I want to do.

My mom is putting in me in a position to be at this school. My freshmen year was fun, because of the friends I made and being away from home. I would not attribute it to the atmosphere at Thomas Aquinas. They create an academic bubble of seclusion, quite literally.

If philosophy, theology, and the classics is what you want to pursue, than by all means, this is the college for you. They are great at working with you for financial aid. They really want you to be able to comfortably afford the room and board and curriculum.

Make sure you do the summer program so you know exactly what you are getting into. Be aware that this is a very Catholic convservative school and they spread that towards every corner of the life at the school. They rules are a bit extreme, and never think that someone is not watching. At a school this small, everything gets out in the open. If you are not easily molded, I would not reccommend it.

If you like to read perspectives and draw conclusions, this is your school. You must be vocal, a bit argumentative, willing to subject your thoughts to the classroom, willing to abide by the rules and prohibitions of the college, wanting school to flow through every aspect of your life, like the quiet, secluded lifestyle, and be a greek and classic writers phanatic. You really must have a passion for the curriculum and how the program works to be successful here, you can't slide by just doing the minimum, because the tutors and the students will not tolerate your apathy.

I find the curriculum to be very challenging but rewarding. I love the sense of community and camaraderie between students of every year. I love everything this college stands for and I find it easy to lead a good life here.

If you can manage a visit do it. Really read about the school and study up on it as much as possible. Try and talk to students at the school and get their thoughts on it.

This is an intense school that bases it's program off the classics. There are no multiple choice tests. You have to display your knowledge of the texts through intense written and oral examinations.

They have strictly single sex dorms. These encourage a sense of sisterhood and brotherhood among students. It also fosters a more relaxed atmosphere as no one is trying to impress the opposite sex in the hallways or common rooms.

No fast food, no chain resturants, no meal plans, the food is taken care of in room & board. It is easy to eat healthy as they always have the salad bar available for lunch and supper. The food isn't stellar but it isn't awful either, there is always something for everyone.

There are many hiking trails that start on campus and go into the mountains. There is always some sort of extracurricular sporting event going on on the athletic field, and students are always rounding up people to go to the beach.

They do an excellent job of making sure you aren't paying anything more than they need to give the education you deserve.

There is almost always a school wide dance being planned no matter what time of year it is. These dances always have entertainment, food, and some of the best swing dancing you've ever seen.

None at all. Your dorm is like your sorority or fraternity. Dorm pride is a big thing for most students.

I'm never afraid on campus. The male prefects and security guards keep everyone feeling very safe.

thomas aquinas is a beautiful place, full of a love for knowledge and critical thought. it has a variety of fun and enhancing extracurricular activities that range from hiking to drama and more. the class environment is unique from most other schools, consisting of discussions based on the socratic method, rather than lectures.

visit the campus and sit in on the classes. the grounds alone could win over anyone half-interested in this beautiful school. however, one must experience the classes first-hand in order to make an educated decision, as they are not for everyone.

the academic environment is vibrant! discussions on the subject matter extend far beyond the classrooms.

the dorms are lovely, and most have a wide, open communal area.

the food is healthy and there is a wide range of choices offered.

hiking in the beautiful california mountains, or just walking in the surrounding wooded areas, outdoor activities abound!