Academics
University of Dayton, a Catholic school in the Marianist tradition, has done a tremendous job fostering a sense of community throughout the campus. Dayton is an institution that places an emphasis on service, and undergrads feel that the school is the “perfect size.” Academically, undergrads are quick to mention that “UD has a very strong engineering program…that encourages creativity and innovation.” And overall, there are also lots of “good opportunities [to participate] in research.” Students also benefit from “small” class sizes as well as professors who are “so passionate about their field[s].” They are usually quite “receptive to questions” and “never treat [students] like [they’re] below them.” UD professors are also great at making “their material very interesting [by fostering] discussions and [demonstrating real world] applications.” Time and again they prove that they “are genuinely interested in student success…[and] always more than willing to talk and meet outside of the classroom.” As this grateful student concludes, “I know all of my professors well at the end of the semester as we are able to develop a personal relationship.”
Student Body
University of Dayton works hard to attract (and admit) students who are “very friendly and welcoming to others.” As one undergrad gushes, “I have never been surrounded by a more positive group of people; everyone that attends is absolutely in love with the school and their passion for UD shows in everything they do.” Many are also keen “to spend their time volunteering to improve Dayton and the wider Ohio community.” Moreover, a laid back and “comfortable” lot, we’re told that “leggings and sweatshirts are standard attire”—at least when it comes to attending class. Of course, some students do lament the fact that UD “is not very diverse.” After all, students say the “majority [of undergrads] are white, upperclass [and] Catholic.” Still, there’s “always a place for someone new at the table.” And no matter their background or ethnicity, Dayton students are united in their desire to both “work hard and have fun.” As this incredibly content undergrad gently concludes, “there is no every man for himself mindset. Every person on campus is invested in helping one another to make UD feel like home. The day you choose to be a Flyer, you become a member of our family.”
Campus Life
Undergrads at the University of Dayton are diligent about their studies, but they also understand the importance of stepping away from their books. You can find many UD students working out on a “daily [basis] at the “Rec Plex,” and “intramural sports are also very popular.” There are “over 250 clubs” in which students can (and do!) participate. For example, as one busy undergrad reveals, “I enjoy playing Quidditch two to three days per week. I am also in the Flyer Pep Band which is a fantastic way to get involved in the student section at basketball games.” Further, “the school’s activity board usually puts on a movie or different events [throughout the semester].” Dayton students also report that “the weekends are really fun, and everyone lets loose by going to the student neighborhood.” There you’ll find kids “hanging out on porches and filling their houses…with music and laughter.” While drinking certainly occurs there, students assure us that “for the most part people practice safe behaviors.” Lastly, when UD undergrads want a respite from collegiate life, they can head into downtown Dayton to enjoy the city’s numerous restaurants and “vibrant arts scene.”
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