Academics
Minnesota’s College of Saint Benedict (for women) and Saint John’s University (for men) are two Catholic liberal arts colleges that share one academic program and classes, but retain separate dorms, campuses, and traditions. Students come to this “beautiful, friendly environment” and leave with “a well-rounded education...ready to take on the world.” The Benedictine values “are upheld by every student in everyday life” and help breed graduates that are “all about service and making an impact in the world.” Says one junior, “This school is a must for any student who wants to feel accepted and a part of a rich community, while at the same time receiving an education that is second to none.” Professors truly take to heart the feedback they receive from their students, are “extremely dedicated and passionate,” and “are willing to work...on projects outside of class even if it means extra work for them.” They “are interested in us figuring things out for ourselves” and are “big on [students] being prepared for class so more time can be spent discussing or practicing material instead of lecturing.” The ultimate testament to faculty involvement: “At CSB and SJU, I have never had a professor that has struggled to know my name (besides the fact that I am a twin).” Discussion is “lively” (particularly in upper division courses), and students “are offered many great opportunities to further our experiences and education.” The open environment “does what it can to help students feel comfortable and learn.”
The schools provide “excellent scientific and business opportunities” and “endless connections with not only other schools across the nation, but...across the world” that aid in postundergraduate employment or continued education opportunities. The “incredible” study abroad program sees a large number of students take advantage of it at some point in their college careers.
Student Body
Most of the “Johnnies” and “Bennies” here are “from Minnesota or the surrounding states,” are “hard-working, fun-loving,” and “believe in the importance of education.” Not surprisingly, the majority are Catholic and take “‘Minnesota Nice’ to a whole new level”: “Expect to have doors open for you [and] people smile and greet you on occasion when you’re passing by.” People have no trouble finding a friend group with related interests via “the many clubs and activities that are offered.” “Everyone fits like a puzzle piece” and students “commonly have social issues that they are passionate about, such as gender equality, sustainability, [or] health and wellness.”
Campus Life
The schools “really make sure your transition into your first semester runs smoothly” and that students “have a lot of options for meeting new people.” The Student Activities and Leadership Development Office plans “large campus events such as orientation and Thanksgiving dinners,” and also has an “inspired leaders series” of after-hours classes taught by professors that promote leadership on campus. On weekends, students often take adventure trips (like “California Surfing trips, Boundary Waters canoe trips, and Colorado climbing trips”) with the schools’ Peer Resource Program.
School pride is “ridiculous” at CSB and SJU and athletic events “are the high points for entertainment,” especially against rival St. Thomas. For fun, students take advantage of the school’s “rich recreational abilities” both in the arboretum and on nearby waterways, where “ice fishing, fishing, hiking, and hanging out at the beach are popular.” “The warm months of the year are awesome with the lake/raft open. It feels like a summer camp,” says a student. Many students “do go out on the weekends” to parties or bars, but there is an “outstanding campus programming board” that plans events every weekend on campus as an alternative to drinking. “As long as you can step out that door and make good use of your time, you’ll have an amazing time,” assures a sophomore.
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