Back-to-school guide: Bentley University
We asked current students and recent graduates to give us the inside scoop on their colleges before the school year begins. Here, recent graduate Bobby Smith tells us the best and worst things about Bentley University, and also gives advice to incoming freshmen.
Click here for a full-sized version of the cheat sheet
Tell us about three things you think are “right’’ with your school:
1. The Career Services Center and staff prepare students to enter their careers and the world of business, as well as assist them in finding the right job to fit their interests and skills. You will not have to worry about finding a job if you come to Bentley, as long as you follow the guidelines and steps that Career Services sets up for you.
2. Fantastic teaching and campus staff. The professors make learning in the classroom applicable and realistic for the “real world.’’ The campus staff, especially student affairs, have been great at offering students a multitude of programs and opportunities to become more diversified and enjoy their college experience to the fullest.
3. Bentley University maintains a beautiful campus that feels comfortable, private, and aesthetically appealing for all. The grounds are always well-maintained and there is lots of greenery no matter where you go, the buildings/facilities are in great condition, and as a student, you feel proud to call this your campus.
Tell us about three things that you think are “wrong’’ with your school:
1. The dining options are very limited and somewhat lacking in quality. The main dining hall is really the only offender. The individual food outlets across campus are actually very good.
2. The school should spend more on student affairs, campus programs, and residence halls where the students spend the majority of their time. They have an incredible staff, and they could do wonders with more resources and funds. Students want more fun memory-making programs.
3. Bentley needs its own hockey arena! We’ve historically had a great Division 1 team, and they can’t even play in a facility that does justice to their skill level.
What advice, specific to your school and campus, would you lend an incoming freshman?
My biggest advice for incoming freshmen students is to organically transition into college. So many people, including myself, act differently from who they actually are when they arrive on campus. You don’t need to make a big impression on the people around you, or show how much you can drink/party, and you don’t have to find your best friend or soulmate the second you arrive. Be open-minded to doing different things, trying new hobbies or activities, and meeting people. With that said, definitely join some activities or groups, because it does no good to sit in your room on your computer. Everyone else around you will take on new hobbies or activities, which is what creates memories and life experiences…so don’t miss out on those either!
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