St. Bonaventure University (SBU)

St. Bonaventure University, located in Western New York, is a "Catholic university in the Franciscan tradition." The university's "greatest strengths include its qualified staff, welcoming student body, and opportunities for service and extracurricular activities," all contributing to "a well-rounded college experience." Most students agree that "the professors are the backbone of this university." The faculty "is genuinely engaged with the students, their education, and their lives." One student says the professors are "amazing; easy to work with, helpful with all questions, and [they] make class as interesting as possible." Professors "are always willing to spend extra time with you when needed," understanding "the value of one-on-one conversation and availability outside of the classroom." Students are encouraged to provide feedback to the faculty, noting that professors "really take our teacher evaluations to heart." The intimate size of the university ensures that every student has "the opportunity to tutor, teach, do research, and lead during their undergrad" career. The school "fosters social, academic, and spiritual growth for students of all backgrounds," which "prepares students for the professional world." This holistic approach may explain why 99 percent of graduates are employed or enter graduate school within six months of graduation. As one student says, "It's a small school with great programs and an enormously huge heart."

SBU is "all about Franciscan values and learning how to be successful yet ethical," resulting in a "very open and accepting community." The school's size allows students to "all share the same teachers, dining hall, and sports teams," creating an atmosphere where "everyone is like family." Students are described as "young professionals with open minds and a drive to change the world. They are creative, thoughtful, respectful of others, and wellinformed." One undergrad observes that the student body is "Unfailingly kind to one another. There is a true sense of comradery and support." Another student shares, "We affectionately call our student body the Bona Bubble because of how inclusive and loving it is." It's a place where "everyone knows each other and looks out for one another." Students "at Bonaventure come from all different walks of life, but friendships are formed that last a lifetime, no matter the differences in backgrounds." As one student states, "I would not change my experience at Bona's for the world."

"SBU is filled with students who are passionate in the classroom, in the line of volunteer service, and in school spirit," and "getting involved is a huge part of the culture here. " The school "holds a ton of events on campus, which are extremely fun and entertaining. Clubs are big at Bonas, too." When students are not studying or in class, they often spend time with friends, going to the gym, playing sports, and participating in club meetings and school events. Students also enjoy walking on the "beautiful trail" around campus and "exploring the nearby national forest." As one student remarks, "There is always something fun to do." The sense of school spirit is palpable, especially during basketball games, which "are a lot of fun." One student concurs, "You can always tell when game day is for the men's basketball team just by walking through campus; it gets pretty crazy." During the week, "students are very focused on studies," but "on weekends, there are a ton of fun parties off campus," and "the 'Skeller' (campus bar) is also popular." And one student thoughtfully adds, "Weekends for Bona's students are fun because everyone knows each other."