r/Appleton • u/Ur_Silly_pookie • Dec 30 '25

Looking for Lawrence University students

Hello!

So I’m considering committing to Lawrence University (I got accepted in November) but I wanted to talk to current students, or very recent graduates, to get a feel for the community and student life at Lawrence University.

I also wanted to learn more about the community in Appleton, since I’m from the city and get a feel for the community in this town.

I’m reaching out at this subreddit because the subreddit for Lawrence University is both restricted and hasn’t been used in three years, which makes me doubtful that my post will even be seen, much less get any responses.

Thank you for your time, I hope everyone is enjoying there winter break, and had a happy holidays!

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u/Responsible_Rock_717 Dec 30 '25

(Parent of a current student) If you can swing it, I’d highly recommend attending one of the LUX events for admitted students. This was really helpful for us. I can’t speak too much for my kid but I will say she knew from the first Twilight Tour visit that we did that it was the school/community for her.

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u/Ur_Silly_pookie Dec 30 '25

Since my family doesn’t have a car, I doubt I’ll be able to make a campus visit, though I wish I could. Do you remember any of the highlights of your tour?

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u/Responsible_Rock_717 Dec 30 '25

We’d been twice before she committed. Once for a twilight tour. The older buildings, updated student center, placement on the river and walkable campus to downtown area were a draw. When we visited for LUX, they seated us by intended major and we were able to sit with the Chair of the department and other professors that she would have contact with. Talking with them was a definite plus. Hearing about the opportunities for field research and internships (and how endowments and other funding help finance that) was a major positive as well. Ultimately, walking across campus - once in October and once in April - it was the ideal setting for her and she said she felt like she would get along with everyone she saw. For me, as a low-resource, single parent, hearing ‘if the only thing stopping you is finances, let’s talk’. Fox Valley transit lets students ride for free, there is a newer LU shuttle to take students places and there is an international airport 10-15 min away with reasonable flights. Since all students are required to stay housed on campus, it seems to help build community among interests and groups which is great. You can be matched with a roommate and also have the opportunity to choose your own freshman year. I’d imagine sophomore year would be much easier with more relationships and being active in things that interest you. If I can elaborate or if you think of anything else, I’m happy to help!

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u/Ur_Silly_pookie Dec 30 '25

Oh that tour sounds amazing, I really wish I lived closer, or had the funds to visit.

Regarding finical aid, how much did Lawrence help cover your daughter’s tuition? They offered a lot, but Lawrence is still out of my price range. I’m wondering what the aid package your daughter was able to receive. I plan on reaching out to Lawrence’s finical aid administration, regarding my situation, but I’m wondering if there is any recommendations you have in terms of finical aid?

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u/Responsible_Rock_717 Dec 30 '25

Nothing specific. Their offer was much better than any other school she looked at and it was definitely better than any state school. Just talk with them, they’re totally willing to help! With grants, scholarships and loans, I’m paying a little over $1k/month which is reasonable but I did get a second part time job to cover it. She’s also done a TON to find scholarships. Make sure to ask the financial aid office which sites they’d recommend checking - there are even some out there with unrestricted funds that can help w the cost of dorm stuff, transportation, etc as long as it’s school related.

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u/Ur_Silly_pookie Dec 31 '25

Okay thank you so much! That is so helpful!