Academics
This small, Jesuit liberal arts school in Massachusetts operates under a selfless mission statement of “men and women for and with others.” The school’s strong academic tradition marries with “countless opportunities to learn through internships, speaker series,” “strong student life,” and “small classes” to focus on shaping the student as a whole person. Academics at Holy Cross are “rigorous, and the main priority of students on campus”; a caring faculty and administration foster “an incredible learning environment for students,” and through their experiences, students receive “a broad-based foundation to be successful in a variety of careers.” “From the acceptance letter alone, I knew that my entire application was read thoroughly and that my character was closely examined,” says one happy student. At Holy Cross, “you’re more than just a number in the classroom and on the field.” Professors here are “dedicated to creating an exciting learning environment.” They are “always accessible and more than happy to help,” and they “get to know you on an individual and personal level.” Students are encouraged “to reflect on their experiences and continue to better himself/herself as a whole person.” “There are endless opportunities despite the fact that it is a small college,” one student says. “It is a place where like in the parable of the mustard seed one can grow.” In addition to a “fantastic alumni network” spread across several fields in various industries, there is a strong science program that includes plenty of research opportunities. The college “demands enormous amounts of work from its students, but puts them in a great position to succeed.” “Holy Cross equips their students with an intangible set of skills that not only prepares them for a job, but for life,” says a student.
Student Body
Many students here are “preppy” and from New England, and most all of this “uncommonly friendly” lot is “studious with an activity or two that defines their interests and what they do during the weekend”; in fact, it is rare “to find someone with no extracurricular responsibilities.” Everyone tends to be “very put together” and “generally articulate,” and “there is a tremendous sense of community.” There is “a diverse set of interests” among the whole student body. In general, “all love being here.” “If you want to do well academically, have fun on the weekend...study hard and play hard, then you will fit in at Holy Cross.”
Campus Life
Holy Cross has “a multitude” of groups and activities available to its students, as well as a plethora of community service opportunities. Everyone loves “going to sporting events, especially football and basketball.” Though the “exceptionally beautiful” campus has a lot of fans, all agree that the college “could update some of the residence halls.” Holy Cross has added new dining venues and was named among Bon Appetit’s “healthiest dining halls” for its food fitting all kinds of dietary restrictions. The community among freshman dorms is “outstanding,” and “many of the friends you make your first year will stay with you for years to come.” During the week and on Sundays, “people take their work very seriously,” and the library is generally pretty full, but parties are popular on weekends, and “that nerdy chem major you see working hard all week can turn into the girl riding the mechanical bull at a local bar.” For those who choose to abstain from the party circuit, “SGA-sponsored events such as karaoke or dances are a blast.” Worcester is a fun little town (and Boston a free weekend shuttle ride away), and the restaurants in the area are “amazing.”