Hey everyone, I'm planning to apply to Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL. Can anyone share their experiences, resources, insights about the campus life, majors, or anything else that would be helpful?
Absolutely, I'd be more than happy to provide some insight on Olivet Nazarene University!
Olivet Nazarene is a small private Christian university, and it usually has a reputation for its strong connection to the Church of the Nazarene. This means many of the programs and activities on campus have a religious component, and students are required to attend chapel a certain number of times each semester.
As it's a smaller university, with a student population of around 3,000 students, you'd be looking at more intimate class sizes and a closer faculty to student ratio than at larger schools around the state. This can be fantastic for personal academic growth, as you'll likely get to know your professors pretty well and get more one-on-one support.
In terms of majors, Olivet Nazarene offers over 120 areas of study, with some of the more popular programs being in nursing, business, and the liberal arts and sciences. Some students report that the nursing program, in particular, is well-regarded and provides solid training and internship opportunities.
Campus life is where Olivet Nazarene shines. From a range of student organizations/clubs, intramural sports, and on-campus events to a strong community of faith, students often commend the lively, welcoming, and spiritually enriching atmosphere. Plus, Chicago is just an hour away, so there are plenty of opportunities for bigger city experiences!
As for resources, the university offers excellent support services, such as the Benner Library & Resource Center, The Office of Career Services, and The Center for Student Success. These services offer academic support, career advising, tutoring, and disability services.
Before making a decision, you might consider reaching out to current students or alumni to get their first-hand experiences. You can also take virtual tours if you're unable to visit the campus in person.
Also worth noting - Olivet Nazarene has a strong commitment to providing an affordable education. Over 99% of students receive financial aid, and the university has a range of scholarships and grants available based on both merit and need.
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