Admissions Interview:
Yes - The interview means something here. Small schools, with less applications, have time to hold these events and actually listen . . . Information Session:
Yes - It is there and then you can get more from the tour. Or, you can go to the Forum -- a quasi student lounge which recently is forced to take a back seat to the new student union building -- and ask any informational questions from the students. Campus Tour:
Yes - Absolutely. Two gyms, social sciences in a row, science building experiencing a third makeover within the past 20 years and the new student union. Classroom Visit:
Yes - Professors have energy and "really stick it" to the students. No hiding in the back of the class in this place.
Grinnell College Campus:
Friendliness/Courtesy of Students: 5 - Excellent -
The Iowans are great people. Their friendliness has either rubbed off onto these people from all over the world or people with similar personalty(ies) come to Iowa.
Friendliness/Courtesy of Staff: 5 - Excellent -
These are the Iowans I describe above.
Appearance of Campus: 5 - Excellent -
They devote a lot of money to this issue.
Building/Facilities Maintenance/Cleanliness: 5 - Excellent -
And, much of it is brand new -- new arts building (completed 1999), new student union (2006) new gym (2005), revamped arts buildings (1990's), science center (1990's and doing stage III now), and more.
Dormitories: 4 - Very Good -
Not the posh interiors of some of the big ivies, but not the dull rooms seen in other schools.
Security/Safety: 5 - Excellent -
You can be out alone at 3AM in small town Iowa and not have a concern.
Overall Campus Impression: 5 - Excellent -
Buildings, foliage, old contrasted with the new . . . it is something special.
Off-Campus:
Area Immediately Around Campus: 4 - Very Good -
There are some places that are great and others which are not in the town. The "right side of the tracks" is where the campus is located. Within two blocks of the campus is the best part of the town -- walk Broad Street or Main Street from 6th
City/Town/Community: 5 - Excellent -
This is a great town. Almost like taking a stepo back in time. Until you hit the edge of town and the Wal Mart comes to view.
Campus Visit Notes for Grinnell College:
Visit Description:
This is a relaxed atmosphere for serious students. The vast majority are working for an advanced degree.
Hotel/Lodging Recommendations or Comments:
For major chain hotels just go to http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g37961-Grinnell_Iowa-Hotels.html
When in Iowa, try to B&B it: suggestions are: Carriage House, 1133 Broad St, Grinnell, IA 50112, Phone:641-236-7520 Fax: 641-236-5085
or Guest H
Dining/Restaurant Recommendations or Comments:
Food here is surprisingly diverse. FOR FAST and CHEAP there is: Pagliais Pizza, 816 5th Ave; Pizza Hut, 1033 Broad St; Subway, 1102 West St; Taco Johns, 1020 West St; Godfathers Pizza, 800 4th Ave; Hardees, 1019 West St.; and KFC, 229 West St. FOR a TAST
Other Comments (Transportation, local attractions, parking, etc.):
Parking is a bit of a problem -- but there is no use for car unless you have to leave the small world of Grinnell or shop at Wal Mart. There is a small hill which boasts skiing about 35 minutes away. Really no night life or such. Mostly, this is a place
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The Iowans are great people. Their friendliness has either rubbed off onto these people from all over the world or people with similar personalty(ies) come to Iowa.
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Not the posh interiors of some of the big ivies, but not the dull rooms seen in other schools.