<p>For me, the sense of community was what made Notre Dame/St Mary’s so remarkable. My experience, FWIW, is somewhat dated, as I graduated more than 20 years ago. However, from professors and advisors who truly invested time and effort into my success & education to a campus ministry that was supportive, accessible and welcoming…the Notre Dame/St Mary’s community was everything and more. For starters, it is what I’d call a school that attracts a wide variety of kids. Unlike “State U”, where most everyone is from the same geographic area, the kids here come from EVERYWHERE. It’s comforting to know that you can find friends whose parents don’t necessarily live down the street (but, kids from South Bend do go to school there as well). Pretty much, everyone is coming without a lot of baggage or friends from their high school. Fresh slate, so to speak. All freshman, and a huge percentage of upper classmen live on campus. There are no sororities or fraternities. Instead, there are dorms. Your dorm becomes your identity, your home, your safety spot. Most students do not switch from one dorm to another. Each dorm has a rector (priest) who is both on faculty and serves as a mentor/ guidance counselor for the students in their dorm. Each dorm has a chapel for weekly Mass. Pretty much, everyone goes to Mass. On a regular basis. The opportunities to get involved in clubs, activities and community service are everywhere. It’s really just part of the culture to be involved, in some way. And, I think that helps to create a balanced person. Class sizes are small. Mentor ship with professors is common. Football is King on Saturdays. Overall, I cannot imagine feeling safer or happier on a college campus.</p>