<p>Can anyone give me any feedback about the University of Dayton? From what I am reading, it seems perfect for my son. I know the basics of what the website and princeton review tells me, but anything from someone who knows firsthand? He is interested in band, loves service projects, strong in his faith. Very strong academically. Not a partier but loves hanging with his friends. Thanks</p>
<p>UD is a good school here in the local area. We have many UD grads working for my company and recruit from there. There is good school spirit, good sports (basketball is only the best known sport - volleyball made the NCAA tourney, football won the Mid-Major award last year for small schools). There is also a lot to do in Dayton recreationally.</p>
<p>As a Dayton student (Im catholic as well) I must say that I absolutely love it. Princeton review is 100% right about how welcoming UD is and how friendly the students are. Despite the fact that the whole community ideal comes of as “corny” I would say it really is just that great! You’ll never find student housing like at the University of Dayton the student neighborhood (or the ghetto as Students fondly refer to it) is one of the happiest, welcoming, warm places to be. Not drinking isn’t much of a problem if your son likes to be social and still go out with friends! I know plenty of people who chose not to drink and they had plenty of friends and still loved the University. Although admittedly, drinking is a pretty big part of the “nightlife” as it is at all colleges. I hear being a part of the band is an amazing experience and is a part of some of the best memories of the band members college experience. Basketball session is huge and the band is loved by flyer fans! We have great service retreats that are offered all throughout the year that everyone is welcome on! There are two different types of Catholic masses offered on campus… the more traditional approach in the chapel as well as a more spiritual, eclectic mass held in McGuiness. Faith exploration at Dayton is what you make of it, you can either choose to become really involved and fully develop your Catholic faith completely, or theres the option to step back and not be so involved. I hear the retreats/service projects are definitely Catholic focused but even for a noncatholic/nonchristian, you can choose not to be involved in Catholic traditions. I would definitely say that the student can choose their path in that because Dayton takes a relaxed, student discovery approach.</p>
<p>Can anyone talk about how the school helps with the graduating class and networking for employment, outside of Ohio?></p>
<p>I visited Dayton last week and loved it, definitely #1 on my list. Guidance counselor says that I have some chance at getting in, but after looking at the admissions profile online, I’m not so sure. Had poor grades freshmen and sophomore years of HS, but great grades junior and senior years (so far). So my GPA is low (2.49), have not very good SAT’s (720 CR and 510 Math) and a great essay (so I’ve been told). Lots of community service and activities. Does Dayton consider improvement at all? Do I even have a chance at admission? Do I need to look at a less selective school? Thanks.</p>