Marist College

Attending Marist College was the best decision I could have made for myself when choosing where to go to school. I felt immediately at home the first time I visited campus, which I think is important when you are on your college search. Everyone I met -- students and faculty -- was friendly, approachable, and LOVED Marist. Before coming to Marist, I have never heard a bad thing about it! I was shocked to see some of the comments on this site... if you don't like it -- transfer!

I honestly can say that Marist college has helped me grow academically and socially. I have made wonderful friends since Freshman year, and continue to meet new people each year that have similar interests in activities and my major.

The alumni relationship with students is wonderful; I have gotten many internships because of alumni and professor references.

In the Communications world -- professionals know and like students from Marist College.
I am very involved on campus with activities and still manage to keep a high GPA (3.88 - 4.0) and make Dean's List each semester. I am a campus tour guide and love talking to prospective families about what the college is really like.

The priority points is a very fair way to decide housing. If you decide to live off campus, there are nicer areas in Poughkeepsie or in the surrounding towns.

Our abroad program is great! I studied at our Florence campus for a semester and also completed a short term program for 3 college credits (2 weeks in Europe) -- both were valuable experiences that Marist offered the opportunity for.Come on a tour if you are thinking about attending, and ask questions! We offer an overnight shadow program through Ambassadors -- come stay the night and see if you could live here as a student! Apply for the pre-college program and live on campus for 2 weeks and get college credit! We offer many opportunities for you to get a feel for the campus and student life before making your decision to attend Marist.

3rd Year Female -- Class 2013

Education Quality: A+, Surrounding City: B+

(I'm actually an Information Systems major, under the school of computer science)
I don't really understand all the negative comments on here. Sure, there are arrogant students who are more "jersey shore" suited than at an academic institution, but everyone comments on them because they're the most visible people on campus. The real heart of Marist is comprised of those who take their studies seriously. The people here work hard for their grades. I always see the library full of people working at all hours of the day.

The social life, while it is primarily party focused, does offer opportunities for those who aren't interested in drinking or partying until 3am (For reference, party nights are Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday). But I have found plenty of people to hang out with at night who aren't out drinking themselves stupid. You just have to look! (Hint: clubs, your dorm lounge). Be sure to attend the activity fairs to find interesting clubs. Also, pay attention to postings by the cafeteria and in the dorms! I found a great club (Marist Toastmaters) that is full of academically-driven students who are serious about learning and bettering themselves. You just need to put yourself out there and go to meetings!

I've felt very welcome here at Marist. I haven't been able to fully experience the computer science/information technology program, but it definitely looks good. A lot of students get hands-on opportunities, and many students actually work in IT and run many of the systems for the school. Marist is huge on getting experience for students, so don't worry about that aspect.

Freshmen dorms are okay, nothing special. Housing selection is very competitive, but you're guaranteed it for 2 years. Just be sure to do 3 or 4 clubs (not that difficult) and get your points.

Registration for classes is a pain after first semester because a lot of classes are filled by upperclassmen before you can even register. But with some override forms and some emails, you can pretty much get into any class you want. Just have to put in the effort!

Ultimately, it's about what you do to get yourself out there. Don't expect to make friends sitting in your room all day. Get out there and get out of your comfort zone! If you take risks, you would be surprised at what you can accomplish. I personally can't wait for my next 3 years at Marist. Just realize that at every college there is good and bad, even if some disgruntled students make it seem like Marist is the worst school ever.

1st Year Male -- Class 2015

Scholastic Success: A+, Surrounding City: C