University of San Francisco (USF)

The University of San Francisco "is outstanding for students who care about their community and the world beyond themselves." USF is a "small-ish private liberal arts college" known for providing a "diverse education in an even more diverse setting." The "comprehensive core curriculum" at USF spans six thematic areas: foundations of communication; math and the sciences; humanities; philosophy, theology, and religious studies; social sciences; and visual and performing arts. Students must also fulfill requirements related to foreign languages, service to the community, and cultural diversity, all of which are in line with USF "developing the individual into a strong leader with a particular emphasis on the forces of self-reflection and self-awareness." Classrooms reflect this, with students noting that they should expect "to discuss, to ask questions, and to give feedback" and that the intellectual atmosphere "emphasizes acceptance, diversity, and critical thinking." As one student puts it, "It was not the professor's classroom...it was our classroom, all of us together." Accordingly, there is praise for "interesting, engaging classes that are small" and the "extremely talented, well-educated, hard-working, and passionate" professors who enable them. Across academic programs, students are supported by professionals who "deeply care for education." In short, USF "is outstanding for students who care about their community and the world beyond themselves" and, in line with the school's Jesuit roots and motto, want to "change the world from here."

San Francisco Dons “care about the community and believe in taking action to demonstrate their beliefs.” Students are “artistic, smart, morally sound,” and “committed to their education.” Many are attracted to USF because it’s “in one of the best cities in the world” and they enjoy getting involved in the community. “The average student may be working for an NGO or volunteering regularly at one of the many non-profits in San Francisco.” Hailing “from all over the world,” Dons are “quirky and interesting” and celebrate their many “different cultural backgrounds and hobbies and interests.” The school also provides a “very LGBT-friendly environment” where diversity is celebrated. As one student observes: “Everyone gets along very well.” Overall, USF is “a culturally diverse community that teaches respect, dignity, and honor for all individuals.”

Anchored by the elegant St. Ignatius Church, the USF campus is a "welcoming, second home for all of its students." Known as Dons, attendees love "getting to know each other academically, socially, and morally while allowing ourselves to get distracted by the city of San Francisco." Located "in a beautiful location" just one block from San Francisco's geographical center, Dons can use "the Muni bus pass that USF gives you" to explore "the ultimate city to be in as a young person." Campus "is located near the Haight, which means that there's always something to do." Dons can pop over to the latest exhibits at the De Young or the Legion of Honor, soak in a view of the San Francisco Bay during a Giants game, and then head to the Mission for world-class cuisine followed by artisanal ice cream. As one student describes it: "Students very often go off-campus on weekends to visit tourist attractions, go hiking, explore new food places, go shopping." One Don likes to "hit the nightclubs and bars around the city." Students can be so busy with "concerts and trips to various museums, shows, and performances" that on "weekends campus is barren because everyone is out exploring." As one student puts it best: "San Francisco is a global city with a wealth of opportunity."