ÂÜÀòÉÙÅ®

Business and education claim nearly half of all undergraduates at Hastings College, a small Presbyterian school in southern Nebraska. Hastings doesn't just produce specialists, though; a thorough slate of liberal arts requirements and "a wide variety of classes" ensures that all are exposed to what one student terms "the most comprehensive program for personal and professional development available in the United States." Hastings' size and "small town atmosphere" usually works to students' benefit, and "you can become whatever you want and [the school] will help you every step of the way." "It is extremely unusual for teachers to not know the names of the students in their classes within the first two weeks," says a student. "Hastings is such a great place; there are so many opportunities to take advantage of," says one student. The school "really caters to the students, doing anything to make them feel comfortable here." Indeed, professors here "make themselves readily available nearly 24 hours per day," and they truly "strive to help you succeed and work to your full potential." Hastings boasts "top-of-the-line labs and classrooms," however, as is the case at many small schools, "There are only so many chances to take certain classes." As a result, scheduling ahead is highly recommended. The administration "seems to be very open to opinions and suggestions from the students."

The population is mostly white at Hastings, a circumstance "reflective of the greater region" of the school's location. Most here are "from Nebraska or Colorado" and "come from a Christian background," and they appropriately are "[ones] who likes the small school vibe."There is "a small minority population at Hastings" that is "treated with great respect," including "a good amount of exchange students." Still, everyone here knows each other and "fit in because everyone is kind and very welcoming." Many students are on athletic teams, and "If they don't play a sport they are very involved in clubs and other activities."

Life at HC is kind of relaxed. Students "are really dedicated to their studying" during the week, but "by the time the weekend comes around, we all just want to unwind." "I party with friends, go to the local coffee shop, have movie nights, play Wii, dance, play sand volleyball, and just hang out," a student explains. Even though Hastings is a dry campus, "we have a fair share of our parties," though parties "aren't the only thing going on," and "many students don't drink at all." Because it is a small town, "students find interesting ways to entertain themselves," though "the school gives many opportunities on campus during the weekends" and has "numerous organizations and groups to choose from." Many students are involved in some activity associated with the college, such as "dances, dinners, homecoming, talent shows, tournaments, a parade, and many other fun things that go on throughout the year!" Also, "Anyone with a car and an enthusiasm for the outdoors (hunting, fishing, bird watching) is within range of many a good place to go."