Notre Dame is a unique place. It’s situated in the heart of the Midwest, and its single-sex dorms, parietals and unyielding Catholic identity may seem archaic to an outsider.

Yet the vast majority of alumni speak highly of their alma mater, continue to donate to the university and attend football games years after graduating. Many employers gush at the prospect of hiring Notre Dame students. So, what is it about Notre Dame that makes it so special?

Notre Dame is more than a university. It is a place that strives to educate not only the mind but also the body and spirit. Although this aim may seem a bit lofty, if you let the university shape you, you will find yourself growing more than just intellectually.

Your four years under the dome will give you the ultimate college experience. There is no other place that offers the combination of top-notch academics, high-profile athletics, stellar Campus Ministry programs (not just for Catholics), a gorgeous campus and a tight-knit community that feels like family.

You’ll find that Notre Dame is a demanding place. There will be plenty of parties and SYRs to attend, and more interhall sports opportunities than you can imagine. There will be presentations to prepare, 10-page papers to turn in and even some bickering with professors over your final grade. During the fall, you’ll find yourself regretting leaving your classwork for the weekends as Notre Dame football consumes your life.

There are so many things to do and seemingly so little time to do them all. Life at Notre Dame may be overwhelming at times, but think of it as an opportunity to sharpen your time management skills.

If attending Notre Dame isn’t exactly your dream come true, think of what a Notre Dame education can provide you. As an undergraduate, it may be difficult to understand where your education will take you, but trust us — a Notre Dame degree will prepare you for the real world.

We live in a society driven by success, one that tempts many students to choose majors they think will lead to large paychecks, but it is essential that you study what you care about.

College is a place where you will learn how to think, write, read critically and explore the opportunities available to you. The sheer number of majors here may cause you some anxiety, but you will learn to be grateful for the numerous opportunities this school will provide you. Choose a major that will fulfill you intellectually, and the rest will take care of itself.

Look at former head football coach Charlie Weis (Class of 1978). How many football coaches do you know who majored in speech and drama?

Take advantage of Notre Dame. You’ll be surprised by how much it has to offer. Get to know your professors; most of them don’t bite and can be valuable resources. Study hard but don’t let it deter you from getting out of the library, experiencing campus events and meeting lifelong friends. Enjoy the traditions, and don’t take anything for granted, because it will all go by faster than you think.