Academics
Bringing together a rigorous academic program, a community-oriented atmosphere, and a Christian perspective, 鈥淎nderson University is about educating students for their future endeavors while having them consider the spiritual side of their life experiences.鈥 At this Church of God affiliated school, chapel attendance is required and religion is a uniting factor on campus; however, students assure us there is plenty of room for diversity and debate in the classroom. A freshman explains, 鈥淚 have not agreed with all of my professors regarding their personal beliefs, but the atmosphere allows for dialogue on these matters without quarreling or condemnation.鈥 With just over 2,000 undergraduates, 鈥渆very class is small, challenging, and is taught by a professor who loves to teach.鈥 In fact, in most departments, 鈥渃lasses have around 20鈥30 students or fewer, which allows for a better learning environment.鈥 A nurturing atmosphere, students love the fact that 鈥減rofessors are always willing to help and provide amazing one-on-one attention.鈥 In kind, Anderson students are serious about their academic careers, and 鈥渃lasses are generally regarded as important; not just another stepping stone to get to a job.鈥
Student Body
Anderson University is 鈥渁 moderately conservative Christian school that strives to welcome all students, no matter their point of view.鈥 A current junior elaborates, 鈥淪ome students are very religious and some are not, but they fit in together with no hostility toward one another.鈥 While diversity of opinion is accepted, students explain that, 鈥渂ecause of the strong Christian focus and the high tuition rates, the majority of the students come from strong faith-centered families who value quality education.鈥 On the whole, most Anderson undergrads grew up in a 鈥渕iddle-class to upper-class, white, suburban family.鈥 Most are traditional students; however, you will catch a glimpse of 鈥渧ery few older adult students on campus鈥 participating in AU鈥檚 adult education program.
Campus Life
When they aren鈥檛 hitting the books, 鈥渢heology, philosophy, and social issues are among the most popular topics of discussion鈥 among Anderson students and, 鈥渢here is a lot of focus on global issues and politics, cultural reconciliation, and environmental awareness鈥 on campus. In addition, 鈥渢here are a variety of volunteer outreach programs available鈥 through the school鈥檚 diverse and active ministries. A largely residential campus, 鈥渄orm life is a great way to connect with other people and be involved.鈥 There isn鈥檛 much activity in the surrounding town of Anderson, so 鈥渕ost students end up either going home on the weekends or visiting other cities and colleges nearby.鈥 Some students admit that they leave campus to avoid the school鈥檚 strict alcohol policy, which prohibits drinking on or off campus for any Anderson undergrad, even if they are over 21. However, most students prefer an alcohol-free community, reassuring us that, 鈥渢here will always be typical college parties where drinking is involved, but at Anderson it's definitely not the most popular activity.鈥 No matter how you choose to spend your free time, Anderson 鈥渇osters a strong sense of community, encouraging students to think outside the box, gain worthwhile experience, and develop meaningful friendships.鈥
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