The following reviews are the views of students or alumni at this school and are unrelated to the school data and other editorial content on usnews.com. These reviews neither reflect nor impact a school's position within the Best Colleges rankings.
Union is a wonderful place; it will help you grow as much as you let it. Some students here just learn a lot about their field because they resist growth. Simply by removing the resistance, I will soon present at my second and third research conferences and will be published as an undergraduate. I have learned a lot about research and leadership without really having to try. Some students miss out because they don't realize the opportunities that exist on this campus, but if you keep your eyes open, there is no limit to how much you can learn and grow.
Benjamin Senior
Union has a beautiful campus. The size is just right, its not so small everyone knows everyones business but its small enough that you will know someone wherever you go on campus.Union has a division 1 Hockey team which has a ton of support from the student body and faculty alike.
Cristi Freshman
The best things about Union are the campus, the trimester, and the people. The buildings on campus have beautiful architecture, and the trees and gardens make Union seem much more welcoming than most colleges. Many people who aren't on a trimester schedule at their school do not realize how great it is. Yeah, so we don't have the same breaks as most colleges and we get out in June, but you can't beat only having to deal with 3 classes for ten weeks. It makes the school year seem a lot more organized and it is easy to get internships in the winter (when most kids are still in school and there is less competition), and the summer. There are people who fit almost every stereotype here at Union. Although the lack of diversity here is sometimes discussed, I think that no matter what category you identify yourself with there is at least one group of people you will connect with. Everyone is very nice and mature here and it is easy to get along. The one thing I would change about Union would be the location. I would just rather be in a somewhat nicer area. But, I guess it makes renting an off campus house cheaper when you are older.
Union offers small classes in a small school environment. With just 2100 students, getting to know professors is easy. The course selection is extremely diverse, which is one of the reasons I chose Union. The courses are the best thing about Union in my opinion. Though many people might not be familiar with the name of Union, the academics are certainly well respected, which is what I found in applying to law school. One thing I would change would be the overwhelming emphasis of Greek life. Fraternities and sororities are a large part of many students Union experience, and it sometimes seemed that there was a lot of social choices outside of frats. That being said, there are lots of activities available to students, such as free movies and comedians every week. Schenectady is not a college town, but in my four years there, it has gotten better. There are some shops and restaurants downtown, along with a movie theater and some bars within walking distance of campus. It is, however, not the safest city.
Kate Alum
I think that the best thing about Union is its size. While it is on the small side, there are many advantages. I find it easier to focus in my smaller classes and also going to see my professors for one on one help isnt intimidating and they are extremely helpful and understanding. When I tell people that I attend Union the usual response is "Wow, good for you!" and my parents are extremely proud of me. Most of my time on campus is usually in the Campus Center or the softball field. There is always something to do at school whether it is a movie, a show, or a guest speaker. School pride is great! It never fails that when I leave my room I will see at least 5 people on campus wearing Union apparel. Sports games are always full of fans and faculty. The one negative thing about Union is that the campus is open to the city of Schenectady. While the signs say it is a closed campus, people from the city tend to walk through campus day and night and there are many cases of robbery throughout the year.
Tiffany Sophomore
The best thing about Union is the small size and abundance of activities. Some people feel the school is too small and that everyone knows each other. It's true that you know the majority of students at least by face, but this makes for a comfortable, homey environment. If your looking to be independent and anonymous this place isn't for you! Class sizes are small and the professors very knowledgable. I am constantly impressed at how personally interested the teachers are not only in their own field, but each students success. If you show you are putting in effort most professors will go out of their way, willingly, to help you. There are hundreds of school sponsored activities every month, although many of them are academic and most do not involve drinking. The Minerva System is unique to Union and is a wonderful academic and social tool. It is important to note that the Minervas do not in any way replace Greek Life or weekend parties; instead they offer more wholesome activites and academicly related events such as speakers and discussions.
Allison Sophomore
Reviews provided by: UnigoVisit Unigo to see 57 other reviews and videos on Union College.
