Wheaton College

My first year was rough. Even though I was an international student, I grew up with Americans so I was not expecting the culture shock that I felt.

But as hard as that year was, I've found that Wheaton College was a good place to be that first year (and still is now). While sometimes I felt that people were arrogant or uncaring or too busy for me, I found there are many, many people who were open to and interested in my culture and my perspective, and who are more than willing to help me understand their culture.

As I began to understand this culture and how to connect with people, I found they were interested in hearing how my experience differed from theirs. Students here are very open to new perspectives and to discussing different viewpoints with each other. They are willing to learn from each other and even to change their viewpoints. There are some close-minded people - but I think there will probably be those kinds of people anywhere. I know for myself that my own opinions or presumptions have often been challenged (in a good way) by someone else's search for the truth.Obviously, Wheaton is not perfect. For some people it will be a better fit than for others, but even those who love it will say that it has its flaws and pitfalls. I have enjoyed the challenge of becoming a more thoughtful, sensitive, and effective respondent to the flaws and strengths of Wheaton, its professors, and its students - and hopefully to general life situations as well! :)

2nd Year Female -- Class 2011

Education Quality: A+, Social Life: B

Wheaton is a special school community that is able to combine Christian faith and academic rigor, and all within an environment that supports seriously thinking through issues and caring for others. Its staff is incredibly bright and accessible, and the institution clearly cares about the person as a unique individual. I transfered in after attending two other colleges, and I know that Wheaton is the one of the best things to have happened to me. It has had a significant impact on making me into a more mature, thoughtful, reflective, and developed human being and follower of Christ.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2004

Faculty Accessibility: A+, Surrounding City: B

I cannot say enough good things about Wheaton. My time here so far has been absolutely incredible. The students, staff and faculty are, as a rule, great (though of course, there are exceptions). The administration talks about being a "community" so much that it gets to feel like a little bit of a cliche - but when we stop to think about it we realize that we absolutely are a community. I'm very close to the girls on my floor, and the guys are usually really nice and fun. My professors challenge me, but they work with me to make sure that I can rise to their challenge. They're absolutely inspiring people.

If you're looking for a place to party, Wheaton isn't for you. We know how to have fun, but our fun is very tame compared to most universities. There's apparently a small underground party scene, but if you get involved with it you risk a lot.

The town of Wheaton is really cute. There's plenty of food around - which is nice for Sunday nights when the dining hall is closed, or just when you get tired of dining hall food (which is great for college food... but is still college food). You can get a large pizza delivered from Papa Johns for $10 including delivery fee and tip. We're about a 40 minute train ride from downtown Chicago, and there's a train station adjacent to campus.If you want a college that will encourage you to integrate your faith with high academic standards, you cannot find a better place than Wheaton.

1st Year Female -- Class 2014

Education Quality: A+, Collaboration/Competitive: B+