Welcome, aspiring freshmen, to La Salle University - an institution rich in history, academic excellence, and vibrant campus life. If you're reading this, you're likely exploring what it means to be a freshman at La Salle, and we're thrilled to help you navigate this exciting journey.
La Salle University, named after the famed explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, has a heritage that spans nearly two centuries. Established in 1863 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, it's a place where tradition meets innovation, and where student growth is the central focus.
Academic Life: A Diverse Array of Opportunities
La Salle's academic offerings span a broad spectrum, with 46 undergraduate majors and 33 minors across five schools: Business, Education, Nursing and Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Natural Sciences and Mathematics. This diversity ensures there's a path for every student's unique interests and aspirations.
La Salle is also commended for its robust Honors Program, which provides students with additional challenges, enriching experiences, and unique academic opportunities, including priority access to study abroad and exclusive speaker events.
Small Classes, Big Impact
The average class size at La Salle is just 17 students, ensuring faculty can give students the individualized attention they need to thrive. Professors here are not only respected experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors who care deeply about their students' success.
This intimate learning environment fosters a sense of community and collaboration, with students often citing their close relationships with professors as one of the most meaningful aspects of their La Salle experience.
Hands-On, Real-World Learning
La Salle emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to apply what they're learning in the classroom to real-world situations. This can take many forms, from internships and co-ops to service-learning projects and undergraduate research.
Take, for instance, the Marketing students who work with local businesses to develop and implement marketing strategies, or the Education students who teach in local schools under the supervision of certified educators. These experiences not only enrich the learning process but also enhance students' resumes and prepare them for life after La Salle.
Campus Life: Where Every Explorer Belongs
La Salle's campus is a bustling hub of activity, with over 70 student clubs and organizations, Division II and III athletics, and a robust intramural program. Whether you're into theater, politics, gaming, or service, there's a place for you here.
And let's not forget the city of Philadelphia, La Salle's backyard. With its world-class museums, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene, Philadelphia offers endless opportunities for exploration and enrichment.
Exploring Your Faith and Values
La Salle's Catholic, Lasallian heritage is woven into the fabric of campus life, providing students with opportunities to explore their faith and values in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Whether you're seeking to deepen your faith or simply explore spirituality, there are many ways to engage here, from regular Masses to spiritual reflection groups and service opportunities.
However, La Salle welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds, and respect for and appreciation of cultural diversity is a core value. The Center for Peace and Justice, for example, hosts dialogues and events that foster understanding and promote social justice.
A Home Away from Home
La Salle's residence halls are more than just places to sleep - they're vibrant communities where students form lifelong friendships, participate in hall councils, and enjoy various events and activities.
From themed floors in freshman year to suite-style living for upperclassmen, on-campus housing provides students with a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment that supports their academic and personal growth.
As you embark on this new chapter, remember that being a freshman at La Salle is about more than just surviving your first year - it's about thriving. It's about exploring, growing, and making lasting connections. So, go ahead, explore, engage, and enjoy - your La Salle adventure awaits!