Hello,
I was recently accepted to VSB Regular Decision, and I have a few questions regarding the university that hopefully some of you can answer.
The one component that is making me wary of the University are the required religious courses. I knew Villanova was a Catholic school when I applied, but I am not sure if I am going to be too thrilled taking these courses (I believe I have to take three my freshman year.) Thus, are these courses really boring? Should I consider this when considering Villanova, or are they a small part of the whole experience?
A few more questions:
I am not necessarily a “liberal”, but I heard that Villanova is very conservative. I would prefer that there be a balance so I was wondering if this rumor was true.
Is there a lot of diversity? I know I can find these charts online, but it would be cool to get a current student’s perspective.
How is the food? 
How is the business school distinguished from other schools?
Do they place a huge emphasis on religion in a student’s daily life? I was raised a Catholic, but I am not sure if I want my university to be too closely affiliated with a religion
I never considered Villanova to be a choice until I received my financial aid package. I got into all of my schools but my first choice, so right now I am trying to be positive and weigh my options. My top two choices are Villanova and UConn Honors (I live in CT.) Because of this, it would be really cool if someone who did not have Villanova as their first choice give some input. Also, it would be really helpful if someone can give some pros and cons between these two schools. I really want hope that I can still have a good freshman year!
*Villanova would be cheaper than UCONN
I guess what I am really concerned about is the affiliation with religion and how it affects daily life. If anyone can expand on this a little bit I would really appreciate it.
My son is a junior, so I can try to help answer some of your questions.
The theology classes are meant to be introspective. These are not high-school religion classes. At the core is Augustinian and Culture Seminar (ACS), which includes reading and discussing religious texts. St. Augustine is worth studying. He was a fascinating character who had many doubts about his own faith.
Augustinians emphasize service. That is perhaps the way every day is touched in any significant religious way.
The school hosts a Day of Service in the fall and also welcomes the PA special Olympics each year. Both draw lots of students. Otherwise, you can be as Catholic as you like. There is nothing like required masses. I don’t know what you mean by “too closely affiliated”. They are unquestionably Catholic.
It probably leans conservative politically. There was a recent protest over Charles Murray’s appearance, for whatever that’s worth. My son, who leans liberal, has never felt that his opinions and beliefs aren’t heard inside or outside of classes.
Diversity remains a point of emphasis for the university and its administration. Current financial aid policies (less merit, more need) seem to be helping shape classes. The incoming class was chosen from a record number of applications. It will be interesting to see what it looks like.
VSB students have more internships, travel aboard in higher numbers and have excellent job placement. The admissions requirements seem to be slightly more difficult than the university at large. They are proud of the school and the Buainessweek No. 1 ranking, no matter the subsequent hubbub over the rankings.
Food seems fine. We have heard very few complaints. Surf and turf during finals – just before everyone goes home.
Glad you received a good financial package. We have been pleased with the school and excited about its growth. Hope this helps. Go Cats!
Thank you so much for replying. When I meant affiliated with a religion, I was talking about how much the affilation influenced the daily life of a student.
My main concern is my interest in the religious courses and how conservative the student body is. I am not necessarily sure if I will be able to fit in 
My 2 cents is that the students may be fiscally conservative but socially more moderate to liberal. Catholics can be focused on a lot of social justice issues which lean more left than right. A lot of colleges, especially the LACs have freshmen seminar requirements, which provide a grounding in critical thinking, writing, and robust class discussion. The difference with Villanova’s is that it will have a spiritual basis, but it will not be like a Sunday school catechism class.
Thank you for specifying the common stances. I am visiting April 22nd, and I’m a little nervous! If anyone else can respond and give their input (even if it doesn’t directly answer and of the question above), please do. It would really help me out.
Bump.
How do minors work at Villanova? I tried to look at the website for more information but I read that it depends on your major. Since I am in VSB, would I be able to minor in Psychology or Political Science?
You can definitely add a CLAS minor as a VSB student. They usually require around 5-6 classes, maybe less if you have AP credits in that subject. It’s really easy to pick up double majors or minors within VSB too.
Hi,
I went to candidate’s day and learned that it was definitely possible. Apparently you can double major as well between VSB and CLAS.