Xavier University (OH) (XU)

In addition to academics, students point to the professors at Xavier University as one of its “greatest strengths,” noting that they’re “always available and very accessible” and “actively interested in the learning, engagement, and success of their students.” In particular, students value professors that “ask me what I want to do post-grad and ask how they can help me get there, whether it be looking at my résumé, giving me a recommendation, or letting me know about job opportunities from their own network!” Xavier supports a “holistic approach to learning” through foundational courses that focus on religion, liberal arts, rhetorical and quantitative reasoning, as well as cultural understanding. In addition, “Xavier’s proximity to the city of Cincinnati is a huge perk, especially for those looking to enter in the sports industry, medical field, or corporate world.” This access opens doors to real-world opportunities, with students completing “clinicals at some world-renowned hospitals like Cincinnati Medical Center and Cincinnati Children’s” and doing “real and meaningful work, like the marketing research courses that collaborate with the Cincinnati Reds.” The business school’s highlights include networking events that encourage students to get “out there and talk to people,” club events with company visits, and “in-class opportunities to work with businesses and clients.” This all deepens the “community between students, staff, and faculty allowing for connection, networking, and a sense of belonging.”

As you might expect of those known as Musketeers, “We all connect very strongly with our faith, and I think that really brings us together as a giant family.” In general, Musketeers are “driven, community-minded, and deeply purposeful. The student body is united by a shared belief that education is not just about personal success, but about service.” Students are also “outgoing, loving,” and “know how to have fun and do college, while being ethical and uplifting.” As a result, students say things like “I have loved all the peers I have met through Xavier” and “I would consider myself an introvert but quickly realized that there is someone here for everyone. The student body is absolutely wonderful and so uplifting to each other.” Another student explains: “I feel like since it’s a smaller university and because it’s a Jesuit institution, people here have a better sense of belonging and community.” Even as they celebrate Xavier’s Jesuit background, Musketeers are quick to point out that “the Center of Faith and Justice gives students of all religions a space to interact and participate in programs, clubs, and events.” Overall, “everyone is very dedicated to their education, and that motivates all of us together as a family.”

“Basketball season is king” at XU. Musketeers, as students are known, love going to “games at the Cintas Center. They are so fun and make you feel connected to the student body.” A favorite student pastime is cheering “in the comfort of a packed stadium with ten thousand fans that all feel like friends.” Off the court, “there is tons to do on campus and in Cincinnati,” and students enjoy putting their Jesuit values into play by being of service to those around them. “Xavier is very intentional about providing service opportunities for their students to make a positive impact on their community, and most students are super into this.” One Musketeer says, “I love the service club called X-Change. It is a weekly commitment, and I have made many friends through it.” Similarly, one member of a healthcare club enjoys it “because many students are motivated not only by career goals…but also by a desire to make a meaningful impact beyond themselves.” Summing up the extracurriculars on offer, one student says: “All these experiences brought me joy, taught me important life lessons, or increased my knowledge of the campus and community.”