Siena University, formerly known as Siena College, is a Catholic, private school that was founded by Franciscan friars in 1937. There are about 20 friars currently in residence, including 13 who minister on the campus in suburban Loudonville, New York. (Before finals, the college chaplain blesses students so they have spiritual guidance throughout their tests.)
Approximately 3,000 students attend the school, and they can choose from over 40 major programs, including joint-degree programs in liberal arts, science and business.
Sports are big at this Division I college, especially men's basketball — the Saints have made the NCAA tournament half a dozen times. Overall, there are 21 Division I sports at Siena.
There’s also plenty to do on campus. The Siena Night Life initiative plans events every weekend in the student union, from trivia nights to casino games to live entertainment, along with larger events like the annual Siena Fest, a weekend festival featuring a big concert.
According to the school, nearly all students qualify for scholarships or grants. Siena also has an interest-free monthly payment plan so students can spread the cost of tuition.
