Boston College Undergraduate Admission Bulletin
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Transcript of Boston College Undergraduate Admission Bulletin
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1 Begin your journey
2 Solid foundations
6 Home base
12 Intellectual pursuits
17 Campus traditions
18 Test your mettle
25 Fuel your spirit
30 Find your calling
36 Boston
38 Admission and financial aid
40 Visit Boston College
undergraduate admission bulletin 2012–2013
A nationally ranked research university, Boston College
is dedicated to the discovery and transmission of knowl-
edge. As a Jesuit, Catholic institution, Boston College is
committed to the continual process of intellectual inquiry
and student formation.
Boston College endeavors to educate a new generation of
leaders—men and women who will be capable of shaping
the future with vision, justice, and charity—who combine a
sense of calling with concern for the entire human family.
On the evening of First Year Academic Convocation,
faculty and members of the Jesuit community charge
students with the words of St. Ignatius: “Go and set the
world aflame.”
Begin your journey
At the core of a Boston College education is a deep
commitment to the ideals of the liberal arts—the spirit of
inquiry, the free exchange of ideas, and the development
of critical thinking skills. Boston College offers more
than 50 majors in four undergraduate schools: the Carroll
School of Management, the College of Arts and Sciences,
the Connell School of Nursing, and the Lynch School
of Education.
All undergraduates complete the 15-course University
Core Curriculum as well as major and elective courses.
Many students also pursue a minor in one of more
than 40 interdisciplinary programs in areas ranging
from Ancient Civilization to Scientific Computation to
International Studies.
Solid foundations academics at boston college core curriculum
The University Core Curriculum emphasizes the study of defining works in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Providing a broad understanding of the forces that have shaped world history and culture, the Core challenges students to think across disciplines, to make decisions and communicate effectively in an increasingly complex world.
core course requirements
Arts (1)
Cultural Diversity (1)
Literature (1)
Mathematics (1)
Modern History (2)
Natural Science (2)
Philosophy (2)
Social Science (2)
Theology (2)
Writing (1)
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College of Arts and Sciences
The oldest and largest undergraduate school of Boston College, the College of Arts and Sciences enrolls more than 6,000 students and embraces a strong liberal arts tradition. Students study in one of 32 major fields and 18 interdisciplinary minors and can pursue exceptional academic opportunities through the Honors Program, research projects, and international study. Expo-sure to subjects such as art history, theology, and physics teaches students to analyze information and think critically and independently.
MajorsArt HistoryBiochemistryBiologyChemistryClassical StudiesCommunicationComputer ScienceEconomicsEnglishEnvironmental GeoscienceFilm StudiesFrenchGeological SciencesGerman StudiesHispanic StudiesHistoryInternational StudiesIslamic Civilization
and SocietiesItalianLinguisticsMathematicsMusicPhilosophyPhysicsPolitical SciencePsychologyRussianSlavic StudiesSociology
Studio ArtTheaterTheology
Interdisciplinary ProgramsAfrican and African
Diaspora StudiesAmerican Studies Ancient Civilization Asian American StudiesAsian StudiesCatholic StudiesEast European StudiesEnvironmental StudiesFaith, Peace, and JusticeGerman StudiesInternational StudiesIrish StudiesIslamic Civilization
and Societies Jewish StudiesLatin American StudiesPsychoanalytic StudiesScientific ComputationWomen’s and
Gender Studies
bc.edu/cas
Wallace E. Carroll School of Management
Rooted in a belief that broad knowledge, rather than specialized training, best prepares students to be effective in the global economy, the Carroll School’s undergraduate academic program includes courses in both business and the liberal arts. In addition to University Core requirements, students fulfill a management core: a broad slate of introductory courses in business disciplines, with an emphasis on principled decision making. Students are also required to select one or more management concentrations. The first-year experience begins with Portico, an introductory, interdisciplinary business and ethics course.
ConcentrationsAccountingAccounting Information SystemsComputer ScienceCorporate Reporting and AnalysisEconomicsFinanceGeneral ManagementHuman Resources ManagementInformation SystemsManagement and LeadershipMarketingOperations Management
bc.edu/csom
William F. Connell School of Nursing
The Connell School of Nursing curriculum prepares students for leadership in every area of nursing. Students gain clinical experience in Boston’s renowned health care institutions. Connell School students are eligible to take the state licensure exam and may enroll in courses that can be applied toward a master’s degree.
MajorNursing
bc.edu/cson
Carolyn A. and Peter S. Lynch School of Education
Lynch School of Education students engage in rigorous course work, professional training in teaching and applied psychology, and community outreach—all striving to improve the human condition. A Lynch School education prepares future educators and counselors to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and their families.
MajorsApplied Psychology and Human Development Elementary EducationSecondary Education
Interdisciplinary ProgramsAmerican HeritagesGeneral ScienceMathematics/Computer SciencePerspectives on Spanish America
bc.edu/lsoe
colleges and majors
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Nikki Elliott sophomore // accounting and perspectives // chanhassen, minnesota
discerning life’s meaning
My very first class at Boston College was a required course
for business majors called Portico. It met at 8:00 a.m.—my
classmates and I literally had to drag ourselves to class half
asleep. But none of us missed a single class because our
professor was such a joy.
Portico gave me a great introduction to business and the
global market. We read and discussed the Wall Street Journal,
developed our communication skills, did hands-on projects,
and studied ethical underpinnings of business decisions.
I also learned the importance of a global perspective.
As a freshman I also took an interdisciplinary course,
Perspectives I, that explored what it means to live a life of
excellence. That course absolutely changed my life. I loved it
so much that I added a Perspectives major to my accounting
concentration. The Perspectives Program offers a unique
balance to my CSOM classes and has set me on a journey
of profound intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth.
My “aha” moment » It’s more of an “aha”
process—every day I’m reminded that I made
the right decision in choosing BC.
9,088 undergraduate enrollment5% African American/Black, 11% Asian American,
11% Hispanic/Latino, 4% international citizens
32% of graduates in the Class of 2011 completed a double major
4,818 graduate enrollment
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academics at boston college
academic support
Academic advising is central to a Boston College education. Each undergraduate is paired with a faculty advisor who helps that student identify interests, pursue internships or research opportunities, choose a major, and find success. To ensure a coherent, well-developed academic experience, students meet with their faculty advisors each semester before course registration. A network of resources is available to students, including faculty, deans, and the Academic Advising Center.
The Office of AHANA (African-American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American) Student Programs welcomes all students, with a particular focus on helping multicultural students navigate college life.
pre-professional advisement
For students planning to pursue further study in fields such as law and medicine, Boston College offers personalized advising and guidance on everything from choosing courses and internships to preparing for interviews and entrance exams. In 2011, 91 percent of seniors who applied to law school gained admission to one or more American Bar Association-approved institutions. For the past three years, 84 percent of pre-med seniors with at least a 3.4 science GPA and a score of 9.0 or more on the MCAT were accepted to allopathic medical schools.
Boston College offers pre-professional advisement in the following fields: Pre-Dental Pre-Medical Pre-Law Pre-Veterinary
international programs
With 72 international programs in 28 nations around the globe, Boston College gives all undergraduates the opportunity to study overseas and an excellent opportunity to develop language skills, learn about new cultures, and gain a global perspective. Nearly half of Boston College undergraduates spend time studying in another country.
Home base a warm welcome
Boston College welcomes first-year students with a series
of introductory programs and activities designed to help
them feel informed, engaged, and at home in the
University community.
All incoming undergraduates are required to participate
in one of seven comprehensive orientation sessions held
during the summer months. Staff, students, and faculty
are on hand to introduce the academic, spiritual, social,
and practical resources of Boston College from a variety of
perspectives. Entering students spend three days and two
nights living in a residence hall, eating in dining halls, and
getting to know one another and the campus.
Each student leaves orientation with a book—a shared
summer reading assignment that serves as a focal point
and theme of the annual First Year Academic Convocation
welcoming new students to the intellectual community
at Boston College.
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29 residence halls85% of undergraduates live on campus
40% of freshmen live on Newton Campus
60% of freshmen live on Upper Campus
150 Jesuits at Boston College
12 dining halls
232 student clubs and organizations
31 male and female NCAA Division I sports teams
40 intramural sports 918 intramural teams
During Convocation students make a torch-lit procession through Middle Campus, down the Higgins Stairs, to Lower Campus—the same route they will retrace on Commencement day, four years later—for a special forum with the author of the text they have read.
To help new students get involved in campus life, the University holds an all-day Student Involvement Fair early in the fall semester, where under-graduates can explore the breadth and depth of more than 230 student organizations and activities focused on interests from the performing arts to social services to athletics.
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a warm welcome
Students are guaranteed three or four years of on-campus
housing. Accommodations range from traditional doubles to
eight-person suites, high-rise apartments, and townhouses.
Honors, multicultural, quiet, and substance-free living areas
are available on campus.
“As a freshman I chose a living and learning
community with my classmates from Perspectives,
a four-year, interdisciplinary program.…We took
our classroom discussions back to the dorm for
more debate.”
–ben miyamoto read more @ www.bc.edu/ben
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Favorite place in Boston » I’m a huge comic book nerd,
so I spend hours at Newbury Comics flipping through
comics. It’s a fun place to get lost.
The first couple of weeks as a college freshman can be
awkward. But the girls on my floor were friendly and ap-
proachable, and some of my best friends at Boston College
are people I met in the first few days of freshman year.
For me, the hardest part of adjusting to college was the
intensity of the classes. But my academic advisor was there
for me when I needed advice, and my professors were very
open to working with me when I needed help, even when I
felt like I’d been thrown into the deep end. I was surprised
by how much I could accomplish if I put my mind to it.
Taking a few hours out of the week to have fun makes
everything more manageable, and I have found a lot of
ways to relieve stress and get to know people. My resident
assistant hosts a weekly 10-minute dance party that helps
break the monotony of studying. There’s a meditation
session every Tuesday night on my floor. And I’ve started
taking swing dance classes!
Anita Kwashie achieving balance
freshman // psychology // scotch plains, new jersey
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In my freshman year I joined Cura, a community of small,
faith-based student discussion groups that offer a safe
space where you can talk about anything you want, whether
it’s family problems, roommate drama, or just the stresses
of college life. It’s easy to get lost in the emotions of school,
work, and friends, so it’s important to take a step back and
spend some time away.
I also participated in Beginnings, a freshman retreat run
by Campus Ministry. We spent two days at a house on Cape
Cod in small groups with a sophomore leader. At its core,
the experience was about opening ourselves up and building
trust. There’s something beautiful about sharing your soul
and learning about other people’s stories and hardships.
I became part of a real community, and the people I met
there became my best friends.
Something I never thought I would do »
Spend spring break working at a soup kitchen
in Philadelphia
Philip Lam sophomore // chemistry // nutley, new jersey
finding community
a warm welcome
At the heart of Boston College is an intellectual commu-
nity of teacher-researchers whose primary focus is
undergraduate education. All full-time faculty members
teach undergraduates. With a median class size of 21
and a student-faculty ratio of 14 to one, the University
encourages frequent, robust exchanges between students
and their professors.
A leading research institution, the University’s research
expenditures for the most recent fiscal year totaled
$64.7 million. Boston College is also home to more than
30 centers and institutes, including the Boisi Center
for Religion and American Public Life, the Center for
Retirement Research, the Church in the 21st Century
Center, and the Irish Institute.
Intellectual pursuits faculty and research
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737 full-time faculty98% hold a doctorate or terminal degree
88% of classes taught by faculty12% of classes taught by teaching fellows
1,677 classes per semester
With eight on-campus libraries, students have
access to research and reference assistance
24/7. University librarians offer course-specific
library instruction, one-on-one consultations,
and a popular “Text a Librarian” service for
quick responses to student queries.
I started working in Professor Willie Padilla’s physics lab the
summer after my freshman year on a project designing a
metamaterial to help in the imaging of skin. It’s very difficult
to image skin—and to detect skin cancer—because skin has
such a reflective surface.
We spent a lot of time working on the design, doing
calculations and computer simulations to help guide our
work. We worked in the University’s clean room, where the
air is filtered and we have to wear full-body suits with gloves
and hoods. Now we’re testing the material to confirm
whether our theory matches the experiential results.
Then we’ll write up our results for the National Science
Foundation, which helped fund the research.
Getting involved in research so early in my college career
has taught me a lot about myself and helped me solidify my
career decisions. I love the work we’re doing. Our project
has real-world implications and a purpose, and it’s very cool
to know my work will have an impact on people’s lives.
Michelle Cunningham sophomore // physics // framingham, massachusetts
doing real-world research
Something I never thought I would do »
Go to a “literary characters” party.
We all dressed up. It was great!
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faculty and research
The summer after my junior year, I worked in the history
department as a research assistant for Professor Patrick
Maney, who was writing a book about the Clinton adminis-
tration. He assigned me to research public perceptions of
Clinton, his role in popular culture, his welfare agenda,
and a lot more.
I accessed traditional academic resources like govern-
ment records, periodicals, and online publications. But I
also looked at sources the average academic doesn’t use,
like YouTube clips of late-night comedians talking about
Clinton on TV. The way people perceive the presidency has
changed—today, many people get more information from
shows like Conan or The Colbert Report than from the New
York Times or the Washington Post.
Doing the kind of historical research that professors do
was an amazing experience. I presented our work at the
University’s Undergraduate Research Symposium. My
professor and I developed a great working relationship,
bouncing ideas off each other and ending up more as
colleagues than as teacher and student. After graduation, I
will go to Spain on a Fulbright Scholarship to teach English
and conduct research.How many times I call home
in an average week » Six
Gregory Manne senior // secondary education and history // weston, florida
finding new paths to history
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faculty and research
The University offers opportunities for undergraduates to
participate in faculty research and undertake independent
study projects. More than 200 Boston College students in
the past decade have won national awards, including the
Rhodes, Skaggs-Oxford, Fulbright, Marshall, and
Goldwater scholarships.
“I conducted research on the history of the women’s
movement in Turkey.…I wouldn’t have been able to do
that without funding from an Advanced Study Grant.
These summer grants are designed primarily for
freshmen and sophomores, with the idea that an early
research experience will help students later, when they
apply for prestigious fellowships like the Rhodes or
the Fulbright.”
–brooke loughrin read more @ www.bc.edu/brooke
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The eagle is the University mascot. Boston College students, known as Eagles, share a love of learning and a determination to be the best in their chosen fields
of study. They are also known for their engagement in campus life. They are Superfans and super athletes, dramatists, singers, dancers, orators, writers, activists,
and tireless volunteers who embrace University traditions.
Campus traditions discovering new heights
Superfans / Baldwin: BC Mascot / Student Involvement Fair / debate club / BC vs. Notre Dame / Duck Tours / Boston Common / St. Patrick’s Day Restaurant Week / ALC Showdown / BC Idol / Fenway Park / BC bOp! / Arts Festival / intramurals / Middlemarch / Modstock / Commencement Ball Beanpot / Frozen Four / Spring Concert / convocation / Christmas Tree Lighting / Marathon Monday / Mike’s Pastry / Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Ice Jam / Tailgating / New England Aquarium / Swan Boats / mass of the holy spirit / Freedom Trail / The North End / Newbury Street / halftime Harvard Square / Boston Sports / Free coffee during finals / wzbc / Senior Week / commencement / Professors and Pastries / Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Opportunities to apply classroom learning to real-life
situations abound at Boston College. Many students
take part in internships, international programs, and
leadership training opportunities that prepare them for
successful careers.
The Career Center advises and directs students to
substantive internships in which they can explore careers
and establish connections with potential employers in
fields from investment banking to pharmaceuticals to
public relations.
Test your mettleintegrating theory and practice
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95% of freshmen return for sophomore year
91% graduation rate for the Class of 2010
In a vibrant campus community, undergraduates engage in activities that range from academic, pre-professional, religious, fine art, athletic, government and political, and media to multicultural events. They take on leadership roles as resident assistants, orientation leaders, and peer leaders. The University also sponsors the one-year Emerging Leader Program for select first-year students, and the Jenks Leadership Program, which combines service projects with workshops and team building over the course of three semesters.
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integrating theory and practice
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Brandon Marianacci directing change
junior // international studies with a focus on political science // bedford, new york
I came to Orientation at Boston College with the idea that I
wanted to meet people, get involved, and make a difference,
and my orientation leader encouraged me to join Undergrad-
uate Government of Boston College (UGBC), the University’s
student government.
I’ve been involved with UGBC from the start. As a
freshman, I promoted events and discovered a creative side
I didn’t know I had. As a sophomore, I became director of
UGBC academic affairs. This year, I was director of campus
entertainment, bringing speakers to campus and organizing
concerts and other events—everything from a lecture by a
cofounder of Reddit to a concert featuring Third Eye Blind
and Nelly. The job required a tremendous amount of
leadership and organizational ability. My UGBC experience
will help me during my summer internship at CNN’s
Anderson Cooper 360° program.
UGBC has given me the opportunity to serve the BC
community, actively change the campus, and have an impact
on other students’ college experiences.
Favorite campus tradition » The culture behind Marathon Monday
weekend—it’s a fantastic way to bring the community together and
demonstrate Boston College’s amazing spirit to the world.
I’ve played on the Boston College golf team for four years
and have served as the team captain for two. I’ve learned a
lot about managing different personalities, communicating
well, and—most of all—how to lead with integrity.
I’m also the president of the Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee (SAAC). Community outreach is a big focus of
the SAAC. Twice a month, we visit kids in a nearby hospital
to play cards or just hang out with them. We also go to local
elementary and middle schools to talk to students about
dreams we had at their age and obstacles we’ve overcome.
My Boston College experience has helped me examine my
own life in the spirit of Ignatian discernment—to ask myself
if I’m living it the way I should be. When I stand in front of
a group of kids and talk about things like the importance
of saying “Thank you” and “I love you,” it reminds me to be
true to myself and live with integrity.
A class that changed my life » Human Setbacks:
A Grace Disguised, taught by Fr. Tony Penna
Kyle McCartan senior // finance // plano, texas
reaching out
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During my junior year I spent a semester in Quito, Ecuador,
taking classes and working in a rural health clinic doing
basic nursing practice. I took health histories, administered
vaccinations, checked blood pressure, did dressing changes,
and talked to patients about their health—all in Spanish! It
was a great opportunity to put my nursing skills to the test,
and I learned to be a more independent health care provider.
My experience in Quito was life-changing, and I’ve made
plans to go back next summer. Meanwhile, I’m serving as
an advisor to BC nursing students in Quito. I’m passionate
about nursing, and I love helping people succeed in the field.
I also tutor nursing students here on campus through
the University’s Keys to Inclusive Leadership in Nursing
program, which provides extra support to students from
disadvantaged backgrounds. I help them prepare for tests
and complete assignments, and I know I’m a good source
of academic and personal support when they need it.
My “aha” moment » Realizing I could study
abroad as a nursing student
Beth Harvey junior // nursing // coto de caza, california
a caring approach
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integrating theory and practice
Fuel your spirit jesuit, catholic identity
Boston College strives to strengthen the academic,
vocational, and spiritual development of its students.
Masses and other on-campus worship services, social
justice programs, faith-based student organizations,
and retreats help students explore their spiritual and
religious lives, and discern their life’s purpose.
The University is home to a range of active organizations,
including the St. Thomas More Society, the Ignatian
Society, the Asian Christian Fellowship, the Muslim
Student Association, Hillel, and the Multicultural
Christian Fellowship.
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I went to a Jesuit high school, so when I came to Boston
College, I felt an immediate connection to the school’s
Jesuit, Catholic mission. I attend Mass weekly at St. Joseph’s
chapel, where I often serve as a Eucharistic minister.
The Jesuit tradition means there’s an openness to learning
and a spirituality that pervades everything on campus.
Education here isn’t just about academics—it’s about the
whole person.
Service and living faith in action are part of that education.
Through the 4Boston program, I volunteer four hours each
week at the Franciscan Hospital for Children in Boston,
visiting kids in a psychiatric ward. I plan to pursue a medical
career, so working in a hospital is a perfect fit for me. The
4Boston program also focuses on reflection. Every week
we get together in small groups to talk and pray about our
experiences and the work we do.
I’ve definitely grown since I’ve been at Boston College,
and the University’s Jesuit heritage has a lot to do with that.
Favorite place in Boston » I’m a big baseball
fan, so Fenway Park is an exciting place for me.
I also love going to the North End to eat.
Ted Radell freshman // biochemistry with a pre-med focus // wickliffe, ohio
living faith through action
Students have many opportunities to immerse themselves in reflection and prayer at off-campus, two-day enrichment experiences guided by faculty, students, and staff. Among these are 48HOURS, during which first-year students can discuss their new college life; Kairos retreats, which offer students time to reflect on their relationship to God and others; and Halftime programs for sophomores and juniors who want to explore fundamental questions about their intellectual and creative abilities and society’s need for what they offer.
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jesuit, catholic identity
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jesuit, catholic identity
A concern for social justice pervades campus culture. Each
year, more than 500 students participate in the PULSE
Program for Service Learning, a yearlong academic program
that combines theology and philosophy course work with a
weekly service commitment. During spring break, some 600
undergraduate volunteers provide service and assistance to
communities in need in the Appalachian region, the Eastern
Shore of Virginia, the Midwest, and the Northeast.
Growing up in Mexico City, I saw so much poverty that
it seemed to be the norm. I was concerned about social
justice, but the problems seemed so wide and so deep
that I couldn’t see how to begin to address them.
At Boston College, I got involved in PULSE. In class,
we studied writers like Plato, Aristotle, Dorothy Day, and
Desmond Tutu; then we went into the community and
applied what we were learning to real-life situations.
I worked at a shelter for teenage mothers and their
children. I was like a mother’s helper—engaging the moms
in conversation and playing with their kids. It was eye-
opening to get to know these girls and see the injustices
they were facing. I realized that change doesn’t have to
occur overnight, and it doesn’t have to be complete. But
it can’t happen without the efforts of a lot of people.
I fell in love with PULSE and its mission and so I applied
to serve on the PULSE Council this year. I coordinated three
service placements and served as a liaison between these
sites and PULSE students. It’s been rewarding to watch
the students make the most of PULSE and grow through
their experiences.
Biggest surprise about BC » The great
amount of social activism on campus
Alejandra Rodriguez sophomore // sociology and philosophy // mexico city, mexico
service learning
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Boston College graduates enjoy a high rate of professional
success. Typically, within six months of graduation,
more than 90 percent of graduating seniors are working
full-time or pursuing graduate studies, post-graduate
internships, or fellowships, or volunteering in programs
such as the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and the Peace Corps.
Career services at Boston College are available from the
time a student arrives on campus. The Career Center
offers job fairs, résumé workshops, cover letter critiques,
and mock interview sessions, as well as access to national
databases that list internships, job opportunities, and
campus recruiting sessions.
Find your calling life after boston college
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Class of 2011 60% employed full-time
23% went directly to graduate school
5% volunteered full- or part-time
3% pursued post-graduate internships
2% pursued a fellowship
7% other activity
Each year, hundreds of employers recruit Boston
College students, with more than 3,600 student
interviews conducted on campus. Nearly
120 employers attended a recent Career Fair on
campus, and more than 85 employers participated
in a two-day spring Internship Fair.
life after boston college
I’ve always been interested in pediatric nursing, and one of
my clinicals was at Children’s Hospital Boston, working with
oncology patients. I was paired with a nurse and worked
with her for 12-hour days, doing everything a nurse would do.
I also spent 10 days in Haiti, working with other nursing
majors at a community health clinic. Working through a
translator, we interviewed patients, took their health histories,
and assessed them.
My clinical work gave me great experience, and my
Boston College contacts helped me make connections. When
I applied for a job at Vanderbilt, for example, an associate
dean of the Connell School connected me with a recent
alumna who works there.
Right after graduation, I will start work as an RN on the
hematology/oncology floor at the University of Michigan
C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Boston College has prepared
me to enter the workforce by helping me to identify who I am
and what I can bring to a team, while also recognizing what
I will need to work on as I begin my first job.
Where you’ll find me at 7:00 a.m. » Sometimes
I’m still sleeping at 7:00 a.m., but on clinical
days I’m already at the hospital. Other days I
might be at morning workout for lacrosse.
Ashley Thibodeau senior // nursing // grosse pointe farms, michigan
making the right connections
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The University advises and supports students who plan to pursue gradu-ate studies in medicine, law, and other professions. In a typical year, 20 to 30 percent of Boston College’s graduating class goes directly to graduate school. The most popular fields of advanced study are education and law.
Boston College graduates join a loyal and influential network of accom-plished alumni who live and work throughout the world. Undergraduates can tap into a community of fellow Eagles willing to share their professional experience. They also learn from alumni who visit campus for the Career Center’s weekly Career Conversations programs and networking nights in fields from the performing and visual arts to communications and marketing to the sciences.
“Sophomore year, I contacted about a dozen alumni to learn
about how they got their start in finance. Last summer, I
interned at John Hancock. Jazzman Parker ’11 put me in
contact with the company’s recruitment coordinator, and the
rest was up to me. I have a strong network of professional
connections and advisors. Now that I’m about to graduate
and enter the job market, I’m confident that I’ll find a job in
my field.” –ivan alo read more @ www.bc.edu/ivan
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life after boston college
I take on leadership roles because I know firsthand the impor-
tance of a great role model. My college counselor in high school
was a big influence on me—I was in his office every day, talking
about college and about life, and he showed me that he cared.
I joined Fuego del Corazon, Boston College’s Latin dance
troupe, as a freshman. I had never danced before, so at first I
was nervous—but the troupe quickly became my family away
from home, and I enjoyed sharing my Latino culture through
dance. By sophomore year, I was also a troupe captain,
choreographing dances, teaching other dancers, and being a
mentor to the first-year students.
After graduation I plan to stay at Boston College to earn
a master’s degree in secondary education through the
Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars Program. My goal is to
teach at-risk high school students in an urban environment
to help close our nation’s achievement gap. I know it will
be challenging, but the leadership experiences I’ve had at
Boston College have prepared me to meet that challenge.Favorite place on campus »
The 9/11 Memorial Labyrinth
Jesus Damian Baeza senior // english and human development // tucson, arizona
leading by example
23% of the Class of 2011 went directly to graduate schools including:
Boston College
Boston University
Columbia University
Cornell University
Harvard University
New York University
Tufts University
University of Pennsylvania
Yale University
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Boston a world-class city
Founded in 1630, the city of Boston, sometimes
called the “Athens of America,” is a vital world
city—a center of trade and finance, education
and research, art, and culture. A public MBTA
transportation “T” station at the University pro-
vides easy access to all that Boston has to offer:
museums, music, theater, world-championship
professional sports, shopping, restaurants, historic
landmarks, and places of natural beauty.
The University’s affiliations with the city’s many
business, educational, health care, and community
service institutions offer students opportunities
to supplement classroom work with a variety of
internship and service opportunities.
797 footsteps from Linden Lane to the MBTA’s Boston College Station
$2.00 fare for a one-way “T” ticket to downtown Boston
153 MBTA subway trains depart from the Boston College Station each day
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Admission and financial aid
Overview As a Jesuit university, Boston College emphasizes the value of a liberal arts education along with specialized knowledge in a major field. The University also encourages students to connect their intellectual and personal gifts with the greater needs of society. The goal is to produce graduates who are both accom-plished professionals and good citizens of the world.
Boston College strives to make the application process as smooth as possible. Applicants submit both the Common Application and the Boston College Supple-mental Application (available at www.commonapp.org), along with a nonrefundable $70 application fee. United States citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents are eligible for fee waivers in cases where the applica-tion fee would cause financial hardship.
The Committee on Admission evaluates each application thoughtfully and carefully. The committee looks for demonstrated evidence of academic ability, intellectual curiosity, strength of character, motivation, creativity, energy, and promise for personal growth. Requests for financial aid do not affect decisions on admission. Please visit: www.bc.edu/admit.
Freshman admissionThe University offers applicants two decision plans: nonbinding Restrictive Early Action, and Regular Decision.
restrictive early action
regular decision
Application deadline November 1 January 1
Admission notification December 24 April 1
National candidate’s reply date
May 1 May 1
Boston College does not permit students to apply under Restrictive Early Action if they are applying to a binding Early Decision program at another college. However, Restrictive Early Action applicants may apply to other Early Action and Regular Decision programs.
The Office of Admission recommends that students pursue four years of social science, mathematics, foreign language, laboratory science, and English. The most competitive applicants take advantage of honors, advanced placement, or International Baccalaureate curricula if available at their schools.
Incoming freshmen have consistently earned high grades in their course work and performed well on standardized tests. The test scores for the middle half of the Class of 2016 on the SAT I range from 1930–2150 (Critical Reading 620–710, Math 640–740, Writing 640–730), and on the ACT from 29–32. Please visit: www.bc.edu/admit.
Transfer admissionStudents who hold a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) and have completed three or more transferable courses at a regionally accredited college or university may apply for transfer admission. Applicants must achieve a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in order to be competitive in the selection process. The majority of admitted applicants have maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
To be eligible for the Boston College degree, incoming transfer students must spend four semesters—exclud-ing summer sessions—in the full-time day program at Boston College and must complete a minimum of 60 credit hours at the University. For further details on residency requirements, transfer-of-credit policies, and conditions for professional programs, please visit: www.bc.edu/transfer.
All transfer student applicants must submit: » The Common Application and Boston College
Supplemental Application » Official copies of the SAT I or ACT » High school and college transcripts, Instructor
Evaluation, College Official’s Report, and Midterm Grade Report forms
» International students must also submit the TOEFL
Official high school and college transcripts must be sent from the respective institutions to Boston College. Faxed transcripts or transcripts issued to students are not accepted.
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The deadline for September admission is March 15; applicants will receive their decision letters between May 15 and June 1. The deadline for January entry is November 1; applicants for January admission receive their decision letters in mid-December. Students in their first semester of college may not apply for the January term.
While the University makes an effort to house all students on campus, students are not guaranteed on-campus housing. If housing is not available, students are referred to the Office of Residential Life’s Off-Campus Housing Services. This office maintains a database of realtors, property owners, and roommates, and its staff will assist in the search for off-campus accommodations.
During the academic year, the Office of Undergradu-ate Admission offers information sessions for transfer students. Please see the Campus Visit section on page 40 for details, or visit: www.bc.edu/transfer.
Advanced placement unitsBoston College awards advanced placement units for qualifying College Board AP, International Baccalaure-ate, French Baccalaureate, British A Level, German Abitur, Swiss Maturite, and Italian Maturita exam scores. Official score reports for all exams must be sent to Boston College from the testing agency. An outline of qualifying scores and advanced placement policies is provided on the Admission Office website.Please visit: www.bc.edu/advstanding.
International applicantsInternational students must submit the same creden-tials as U.S. applicants. All documents submitted must be in English. If a student’s credentials are translated from another language, a certified copy of the original must be included with the translation of credentials. All transcripts must be officially certified and sent directly from the issuing educational institution, or certified by the appropriate embassy.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is required of international applicants whose native language is not English, even if the student is enrolled at an English-speaking school. Applicants should achieve a TOEFL score of 100 or better on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) to be competitive for admission. Students must take the examination at an official TOEFL testing center. Boston College’s Institutional TOEFL Testing Code is 3083. The Department Code is oo. Please visit: www.bc.edu/admission/undergrad/international.
2012–13 freshman and transfer costs
Tuition .......................................................... $43,140
Residence Room Rate .................................... $7,790
Board Plan ..................................................... $4,818
Health Services Fee .......................................... $434
Student Activities Fee .......................................$304
Orientation Fee ................................................. $428
Identification Card Fee ....................................... $30
total billed costsResiding on Campus ...................................$56,944
additional costs— freshman and transfer
Books, Personal, Misc. ................................. $2,000
Massachusetts Medical Insurance ...............$2,290
Financial aidBoston College admits students solely on the strength of their academic and personal accomplish-ments. An application for financial aid does not influence the admission decision. The University is committed to meeting the full, demonstrated institutional need of students during their four years of undergraduate study.
Financial aid applicants must submit the following documents: » Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) » CSS/Financial Aid Profile » Parent and student tax forms and W-2 statements
Other forms, such as the CSS Business/Farm Supplement and/or Noncustodial Parent’s Statement, may be required.
Please note that students who wish to be considered for financial aid must complete all required forms.
Boston College is not able to provide need-based financial aid for undergraduate international students (non-U.S. citizens). Once admitted, international students must demonstrate their ability to meet all financial obligations to Boston College during their stay in the United States. Please visit: www.bc.edu/undergradaid.
Each year, Boston College selects 15 incoming fresh-men as Presidential Scholars. Scholars are awarded full-tuition merit scholarships and participate in University-funded summer programs each year. In order to be considered for the Presidential Scholars Program, first-year applicants must apply by November 1 through the Restrictive Early Action program. (Transfer applicants are not eligible for the Presidential Scholars Program.)
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Students and their families are welcome to visit the campus and learn more about academic programs and extracurricular opportunities at Boston College. Eagle Eye sessions are conducted by admission staff members and include a panel of current undergradu-ates who offer their view of academic and student life at Boston College. A campus tour follows the Eagle Eye session.
To attend an Eagle Eye session and/or campus tour, please refer to the link below for registration. Registra-tion allows the Admission Office to communicate the logistics of campus visits. The campus visit program is designed to help in the college search process and does not factor into the admission evaluation. Please visit: www.bc.edu/campusvisit.
Day Visit ProgramOne of the best ways to become acquainted with Boston College is to attend a class with a student. The Day Visit Program matches freshman and transfer applicants with a current undergraduate for a morning that includes classes and an informal tour of the campus. For more information or to schedule a Day Visit, please call 617–552–3378 or visit the website at least two weeks in advance. Please visit: www.bc.edu/sap/dayvisit.
Visit Boston College
june 2012–april 2013 visiting hours Eagle Eye Sessions Campus Tours
summer 2012 (Monday–Friday)
June 11–August 179:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:15 p.m.
10:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:15 p.m.
fall semester (Monday–Friday)
September 19–21, 24–25, 27–28; October 1–5, 9–12, 15–16, 18–19, 22–26, 29–31; November 1–2, 5–7, 13–16 Please note the schedule for secondary school breaks
10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
saturdays (fall only)
September 22; October 6, 13, 20; November 3 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.
columbus day
October 8 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.
fall secondary school break schedule
September 17–18, 26; October 17; November 8–9, 12 9:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
spring semester (Monday–Friday)
February 11–March 1; March 11–27; April 2–12; 16–26 9:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m.
closed dates
Boston College will be closed July 4; September 3; November 22–23; December 24–31; January 1, 21; March 29; April 15. In addition, Eagle Eye sessions and campus tours will not be offered March 4–8 and March 28 and April 1.
transfer students Eagle Eye Sessions Campus Tours
September 21; October 19; November 9; January 18; February 15; March 15 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
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Boston College Bulletin (USPS 389-750) is published monthly in April, May, August, September, and semi-monthly in July by the Boston College Office of Marketing Communications, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3809.
Volume LXXVIII July 2012 issue.
Periodicals postage paid at Boston, MA 02205 and additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to: Boston College Bulletin, Office of Undergraduate Admission, Devlin Hall 208, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3809.
Boston College Publication issn 1090–7034
The Boston College Undergraduate Admission Bulletin contains current information regarding the University’s calendar, admission, degree requirements, financial aid, fees, regulations, and course offerings. It is not intended to be a statement of the University’s contractual undertakings. Boston College may make changes in its program, calendar, academic schedule, or fee schedule, giving notice as is practicable under the circumstances.
In compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, Boston College publishes and makes available to any prospective student upon request:
A copy of Boston College’s annual security report, the Campus Safety and Security Program. This report contains statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus and on public property immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also incorporates institutional policies concerning campus security, including Reporting of Crimes and Other Emergen cies, Safety Notification Procedure, Campus Law Enforce ment, and Campus Sexual Assault Program; information regarding the available educational programs that address campus security procedures and practices and crime prevention; information regarding drug and alcohol policies; and other matters.
A report of athletic program participation rates and financial support data. This report details participation rates, financial support, and other information on men’s and women’s intercollegiate athletic programs.
To request a copy of either of the above reports, please call the Office of the Financial Vice President and Treasurer at 617–552–4856, or send your request in writing to:
Boston CollegeOffice of the Financial Vice President and Treasurer140 Commonwealth AvenueChestnut Hill, MA 02467
Nondiscrimination NoticeFounded by the Society of Jesus in 1863, Boston College is dedicated to intellectual excellence and to its Jesuit, Catholic heritage. Boston College recognizes the essential contribution a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff makes to the advancement of its goals and ideals in an atmosphere of respect for one another and for the University’s mission and heritage. Accordingly, Boston College commits itself to maintaining a welcoming environment for all people and extends its welcome in particular to those who may be vulnerable to discrimination, on the basis of their race, ethnic or national origin, religion, color, age, gender, marital or parental status, veteran status, disabilities, or sexual orientation.
Boston College rejects and condemns all forms of harassment, wrongful discrimination, and disrespect. It has developed procedures to respond to incidents of harassment whatever the basis or circumstance. Moreover, it is the policy of Boston College, while reserving its lawful rights where appropriate to take actions designed to promote the Jesuit, Catholic principles that sustain its mission and heritage, to comply with all state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination in employment and in its educational programs on the basis of a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, marital or parental status, veteran status, or disability, and to comply with state law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation.
To this end, Boston College has designated its Execu-tive Director for Institutional Diversity to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities to prevent discrimination in accordance with state and federal laws. Any applicant for admission or employ-ment, and all students, faculty members, and employ-ees, are welcome to raise any questions regarding this policy with the Office for Institutional Diversity. In addition, any person who believes that an act of unlaw-ful discrimination has occurred at Boston College may raise this issue with the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education.
Credits: Produced by the Boston College Office of Marketing Communications. OMC-2794303. Managing Editor: Maria Palomino. Editor: Maureen Dezell. Art Director: Christine Hagg. Designer: Monica DeSalvo. Printer: RR Donnelley.
Photography: Gary Wayne Gilbert, Lee Pellegrini, and Caitlin Cunningham. Additional credits: p. 8 (left) Suzanne Camarata; p. 19 (right) and 36 (top) Justin Knight; p. 28 (right) Matt Eich; p. 28 (top) Chris Huang; p. 37 Steve Dunwell.
special needsFor more information on services for physically challenged students, please contact the Assistant Dean for Students with Disabilities at 617–552–3470.
transfer eagle eye sessionsTransfer Eagle Eye sessions are conducted by transfer admission staff members and include a panel of current transfer students at Boston College. Each session begins at 12:00 p.m. and lasts approximately one hour, followed by a campus tour at 1:00 p.m. Sessions will be held on the Fridays listed in the chart on page 40, and pre-registration is requested, via our website. If potential transfer students cannot attend a transfer session, please plan to visit on another day using the visiting hours outlined in the chart.Please visit: www.bc.edu/transfereagleeye.
Boston College
Office of Undergraduate Admission
Devlin Hall 208
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467–3809
www.bc.edu/admit
800–360–2522
617–552–3100
fax: 617–552–0798
transfer: 617–552–3295
student services: 800–294–0294
FSC_Logos.indd 1 6/4/12 3:35 PM
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office of undergraduate admissiondevlin hall 208
140 commonwealth avenue
chestnut hill, massachusetts 02467
periodicals
paid
boston, ma