As a well-known Jesuit school, Boston College does more than simply train students for post-college careers. The school’s religious ideals encourage students to be active influencers of society. A sophomore writes, “
The best thing at BC is the attention to forming students who care about social justice and will make life decisions to affect change in the world.”
Boston College’s prestigious programs can come with an intimidating workload, but students say fulfilling the core requirements and conquering their courses isn’t as difficult as it seems. Class sizes vary by major and level. Some intro classes are busting with 300-plus students, but the upper division major classes are significantly smaller, often topping out around 20. A junior history major writes, “
There are many options to take smaller, more intimate classes, which I find easier to be engaged, but at the same time I have had some amazing lecture professors.” Students say most professors make an effort to be accessible outside of class and many build personal relationships with their students. A sophomore communications major notes, “
Some teachers have even given me their cellular and home numbers so I can have access to them anytime.” The academic atmosphere continues outside of class, but students say conversations aren't isn’t all philosophical: “
BC students have intellectual conversations outside of the classroom, but they have just as many conversations about celebrity gossip and arguments over what Boston taqueria makes the best burritos.”
Many students say they wish that Boston College were home to a more diverse student body. “
I'm not gonna lie, BC is pretty much Whitebread U,” says a sophomore biology major. “
A large majority of students are white, middle-class, and from the Northeast. If you're really serious about immersing yourself in diversity, don't come here.” Other students note that the small minority population tends to group up, so students of similar backgrounds stick together. Some also warn that the Jesuit administration (not to mention some students) is not always accepting of everyone. “
The University canceled a GLC dance a few years back, and there are some big-wigs at BC who fear that by including sexual orientation in the non-discriminatory clause, alumni and donors will stop giving funds to the school,” writes a senior English major.
Even though students are only a "T" ride (the nickname for the region’s mass transit system) away from the center of Boston, many stay on campus for nightly social offerings. The Mods are popular dorms that form the heart of the on campus social scene and are the preference of seniors. “
The Mods are the greatest part of BC,” claims a member of the ultimate Frisbee team. “
I live in the Mods as a senior, and I could not be happier with them…They are great for throwing parties and especially great for tailgating before football games.” Underclassmen commonly party off campus, and there are nearby bars for those wanting to head out on the town. While many students enjoy this brand of revelry, BC offers frequent alcohol-free activities as an alternative. “
Students certainly have the option to party or to do other fun, perhaps less liver-damaging social events, and the school is really good about putting on various shows and forms of entertainment on the weekends to suit everyone's liking,” notes a senior.
One characteristic BC lacks is a Greek system; however, most say this is a positive quality. "
There is no Greek life, but that is one of BC's strongest qualities. People are more apt to branch out and party with different groups or friends," writes senior communications major. For extracurricular activities, students join heritage groups, singing clubs, comedy troupes, and the ever-popular intramural sports teams. Eagles football season is a vibrant part of college life, and students have immense pride in their school. All in all, students who come here love their experience and walk away with a stellar education as well as a social foundation for the future. As one senior remarks, “
If you are a normal, warm-blooded human being, and you leave Boston College with regret or remorse, it's your own damn fault!”
