Bellarmine University (BU)

“Whether it’s academically, mentally, spiritually, or physically,” students note that Bellarmine University’s staff (and students) are “always willing to do whatever they need to help you be your best.” Undergraduates report that they feel “academically challenged but not overwhelmed,” thanks in large part to creative professors who offer “take the time to offer extra help, provide mentorship, and connect course material to real-world applications.” Bellarmine offers “a wide variety of fascinating discussion-based classes” and “encourages students to get out in the community and experience new things that may supplement their education.” There are “support systems everywhere…as one of Bellarmine’s goals is to provide a holistic education.” There’s even a Pioneer Scholars program that makes this “a great school for first-generation college students.” Regardless of your needs, “students receive personal attention, and there is a strong sense of teamwork and belonging on campus,” bolstered by a belief that “the staff members are just as motivated to be here as the students.” Small class sizes enhance the time spent with “truly wonderful professors who have challenged my thinking and taken the time to give one-on-one help and develop meaningful relationships.” Overall, students “feel seen, valued, and encouraged to grow…[with] a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students not just for careers, but for life beyond college.”

Bellarmine is a Catholic school that cultivates a “very welcoming and vibrant” student body,” including those “with strong religious backgrounds and more secular [ones].” Students appreciate that they’ve “encountered and participated in a lot of productive dialogue between different groups.” There are also a substantial number of “nontraditional students—parents, caregivers, first-generation college students, and career-changers—who bring resilience, maturity, and purpose into the classroom.” And given the school’s small size, “it is not uncommon to see familiar faces often, so relationships are often built through that.” Many also point to a friendliness that pervades the campus. Undergrads say their classmates are “always eager to start a conversation,” and another student shares, “I never have a fear of being judged for saying the wrong answer because I know that everyone is so supportive and wants to watch you grow into the person you want to be.” Truly, a Bellarmine education means you’ll forge “connections and friendships that last a lifetime.”

Bellarmine undergrads “care deeply about their academic life but aren’t consumed by it” and are happy to immerse themselves in numerous extracurricular opportunities. For starters, “there are various sports events, carnivals, fairs, and festivals [that] provide [relaxing] environments.” It’s also very common for students to “attend workshops, volunteer in the community, or take part in…talent shows or cultural celebrations.” One student chimes in, “I love all the events hosted by our Student Activity Center. A lot of them…involve winning prizes, free food, or fun crafts!” Bellarmine undergrads are also a pretty active lot, and they note “the pickleball courts, tennis courts, and access to Joe Creason Park.” Additionally, intramural sports are popular and “many students…build fitness into their routines, often spending time at the SURF, our campus gym, either working out or working shifts there.” Beyond athletics, undergrads can attend activities like “violin and art sessions.” Another student adds, “I enjoy open mic nights hosted by student organizations, getting involved in our literary magazine, and joining hands with other creatives to create big events that celebrate the arts at Bellarmine.” And of course, there are a range of clubs, including climbing, psychology, mock trial, Muay Thai, and boxing. All in all, “the campus is frequently lively and the students’ lives consist of hard work and enjoyment of the facilities offered.”