Wilkes University

Wilkes University, like any college, has positives and negatives. I've been attending this University for three years, and have developed ideas of what I deeply appreciate and what feels completely outdated and exploitative. The academics can be frustrating. Some courses predominantly feel bland and unrelated to my major. These classes don't promote any desire for us to teach or remember anything, but instead just to pass a test. I want to learn lessons for living my life and my dream careers, not learn how to memorize a definition and circle the correct multiple choice. Part of this I blame on certain staff members. There are some instructors who clearly have no concern for student welfare or teaching, and when I am in a class with one of these staff members, the only alternative is to teach ourselves and each other. I've survived several classes only due to establishing dependable student groups where we help one another teach what we should be learning in the class itself. The dorms are a disgrace. Besides University Towers, the building that requires two roommates and $5000 per semester, the rooms are tiny, barren, and still pricey. I don't own much outside of clothes and my computer, and one dorm in particular was so small I didn't even have room for a laundry basket, and this room was still several thousand dollars. There was constant breakage of air conditioning units and heaters, mold infestations, and broken furniture. I have a unique experience with campus food. Because I lived in an on-campus dorm, I was forced to buy a meal plan, which is at least $3000 every semester. I've practiced veganism since I was a child for ethical and health-based reasons, but even after informing the University of this, they responded that I would still be required to buy a meal plan but they'd provide three meals a day for me. However, despite being assured otherwise, they constantly didn't have any food that fit my lifestyle. I do not blame the cafeteria workers, as they simply weren't be provided with ingredients to provide a meal. I was repeatedly emailing higher-ups , explaining if they didn't wish to provide a meal for me I understand but then I shouldn't be forced to pay for a meal plan. Every time, they gave the same apology, then the issue quickly arose again. I felt very exploited by this situation, as I don't think it's unreasonable that if I'm being forced to spend thousands on food, I should be given food or be allowed to leave the plan. They took my money, but only provided the service if I constantly reminded them too, and even then, only gave me the bare minimum ingredients. Additionally, my peers have informed me that, even without adhering to a vegan lifestyle, the treatment is not much more improved. Of course, Wilkes University has some benefits, the best being certain staff. I cannot speak for other departments, but as a biology major, I quickly connected with a variety of biology staff that clearly will do everything in their power to help a student whenever they need it. I've very rarely had a problem related to the biology department that wasn't swiftly and easily resolved due to their help. I cannot imagine the difficulty of University without their aid. They are what anyone working at a University should strive to be. The campus is also very inviting. One of the standout features of Wilkes University is the wide range of extracurricular activities available to students. From sports teams and clubs to volunteering opportunities and cultural events, there is something for everyone at Wilkes University. This diverse array of extracurricular activities allows students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make meaningful connections with their peers. Additionally, even positions of high authority feel less like a superior and more like a helping hand. I've founded a club for aiding animal-based non profits, organized inspiring speeches, and hosted events on university, and staff members were very clear, concise, and gracious in helping me through each of these processes. Overall, I'd say the institutions in this University are lacking. The buildings, bills, and bare-minimum effort into basic student living is shameful. The aspects of Wilkes that I will look fondly back on are the staff members that absolutely deserve the position they're in, who work for the students instead of themselves. They are what makes Wilkes proud!

Wilkes University provides excellent education programs. I completed my Master's Degree through Wilkes University and am now working on my Doctoral Degree. The professors are always available to help and are active outside of the classroom. Many of them travel the world helping spread education. Wilkes University prides itself in being a global university. The online courses provide a great discussion platform that allows all of us to share and discuss our ideas even though some of my classmates are in different countries.

The campus is beautiful, especially in the fall. The students are all very kind and willing to help you if you're lost. Along with that the professors really care about how you are doing and always look to help you in any way that they can. Overall I think Wilkes is a great place to get an education.

The campus is beautiful, most professors are kind. As someone with health issues, I find it hard to reach out and ask for help. There doesn't seem to be much room for not being the best, which is discouraging for average students. I am embarrassed for having failed two classes. The dining hall food usually has a good variety. You are required to take certain classes that don't seem suitable for your major.