Welcome to the Storage Scholars Spotlight series! Every week, we highlight a different school in our network of college storage locations. This week, we're talking about Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Read on to learn more about this beautiful and prestigious institution why it's the perfect place for your summer storage needs! 

About Villanova University

Are you ready to be Wildcat-wowed? Villanova University is a private Catholic research university educating bright minds since 1842. As one of only two Augustinian universities in the nation and the oldest Catholic University in Pennsylvania, Villanova is a unique gem that attracts students worldwide. Villanova has a diverse and vibrant community with a student body of 6700 undergraduates and 3100 graduate/law students from 50 countries. And let's talk about their campus, which spans 260 acres and is a stunning place to learn, grow and explore. It is located in an ideal spot–just 12 miles west of Philadelphia and a couple of hours' drive from NYC and Washington, DC. 

Villanova University comprises five colleges, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, the School of Business, Nursing, and the School of Law. Go Wildcats!

What Villanova is Best Known For

Villanova University is known for many things, but one thing stands out above the rest: basketball. The Villanova Wildcats are a force to be reckoned with in the athletic world, and fans are some of the loudest and proudest around. 

But this is just the beginning of what Villanova is best known for. With top-ranked schools of business, nursing, and engineering, students have ample opportunities to explore and succeed in their fields before graduation. 

And let's not forget the school's deep ties to religion and Augustinian ancestry. The school's identity remains rooted in the Augustinian Catholic tradition, and all students take the Augustine and Culture Seminar (ACS) course during their first year. So whether you're cheering on the Wildcats, studying business, nursing, or engineering, or learning about the school's rich history, Villanova University has something for everyone.

History of Villanova University 

The history of Villanova University is as fascinating as it is inspiring. The University traces its origins back to Saint Augustine's Church in Philadelphia and Saint Augustine's Academy, established in 1796 and 1811, respectively. Villanova University was named after St Thomas of Villanova, a Spanish Friar known for caring for the poor. The "Augustinian College of Villanova" was founded in 1842 by two Augustinian friars. Still, it faced early challenges due to financial strains, a priest shortage, and a closure during the Civil War. However, the University reopened in 1865 and has been going strong ever since. 

Villanova started as an all-male institution, but in 1918, nuns were admitted to be educated to teach in parochial schools. It wasn't until the opening of the nursing school in 1953 that women began attending full-time, and in 1968, it became coeducational, allowing women to reside at the University. 

During World War II, Villanova offered a Navy training program, and today it is known nationwide for its commitment to veterans. In 1953, Villanova was granted university status, and over the next ten years, it expanded greatly with the addition of ten new buildings. The rich history of Villanova University is a testament to the determination and resilience of its founders, faculty, and students, who have helped shape the University into the thriving institution it is today.

Famous Villanova Alumni

Villanova University has produced many notable alumni over the years, from famous actors to musicians and sports stars. The list of notable alumni includes Jill Biden, the First Lady of the United States of America, who graduated with a master's degree in English from Villanova. Bradley Cooper, the Academy Award-nominated actor, also attended Villanova. Toby Keith, the country music superstar, started at Villanova, where he studied petroleum engineering. Don MacLean, the singer/songwriter known for hits like "American Pie," also attended Villanova. The list also includes Kyle Lowry, the NBA player and Olympic gold medalist, who played college basketball at Villanova before joining the pros. And let's not forget Howie Long, the NFL Hall of Famer who earned a Communications Degree at Villanova. Long played for the Oakland Raiders and is now a commentator on Fox NFL Sunday. These are just a few of the many talented and successful individuals who have passed through the halls of Villanova University.

Life On Campus

Life on campus at Villanova University is full of pride, spirit, and opportunities for students. With 98% of first-year students living on campus, the community at Villanova is tight-knit and vibrant. Students unite to form Nova Nation, a bond extending beyond their time on campus and into the larger Villanova alumni community. The Wildcats are a dominant force in NCAA athletics, with 24 varsity sports and an impressive 21 NCAA team national championships. 

But sports aren't the only way students can get involved on campus – with over 300 student organizations, there is something for everyone. Whether joining a club or organization, being involved in a fraternity or sorority, participating in community service, or attending a campus event, Villanova offers plenty of ways to get involved and make lifelong memories. The campus is beautiful, with its lush greenery and impressive St. Thomas of Villanova Church, a prominent landmark for students and alumni. Overall, life on campus at Villanova is full of energy, excitement, and endless possibilities.

Life Off Campus

When Villanova students need a break from campus life, they don't have to go far. With its proximity to Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, DC, an adventure is always waiting. In Philadelphia, be sure to check out the iconic Liberty Bell, grab a famous Philly cheesesteak, and explore the beautiful Fairmount Park. For a more natural escape, head to Valley Forge National Park for hiking and history. And if you're a sports fan, catch a Phillies or Eagles game. New York City offers endless possibilities, from catching a Broadway show to visiting the Statue of Liberty. And remember to indulge in some famous New York pizza! In DC, check out the Smithsonian museums, visit the White House, and take a stroll around the National Mall. With three on-campus train stations, getting to these destinations is a breeze. Off-campus life for Villanova students is full of exciting experiences and unforgettable memories.

Favorite Villanova Traditions

At Villanova, tradition is the backbone of the community. Homecoming weekend is a time-honored tradition that brings students, alumni, and the community together. With music, food, and fun, it's a perfect way to show our Wildcat pride. Another tradition that Wildcats look forward to every year is Hoops Mania, a celebration of basketball season and the kickoff event to a new season. This pep rally is complete with a big-name musical performance and gets the whole student body fired up for the upcoming season. However, not all traditions at Villanova are about celebration; St. Thomas of Villanova Day is a day of service where the University comes together to help the local community. It's a day to give back and embody the Augustinian values Villanova is built upon. Villanova is proud to be steeped in tradition, and it's just one thing that makes this University so unique.

Storage Scholars and Villanova

Storage Scholars is beyond excited to have a new partnership with Villanova University in 2023! We are proud to have a strong campus presence this year as Villanova is one of our Key Access Schools! Students and parents have entrusted us to pick up student belongings after they move out for the school year, keep those belongings safe in storage for the summer, and then re-deliver everything back in the fall before the first day of class. We will even provide all the boxes and packaging supplies so students don't have to leave campus for anything. We're excited to establish ourselves on campus and to be called upon year after year by Villanova students and parents.

We are also excited to be able to offer Ship to School at Villanova University as well. With this new program, students can receive shipping boxes and supplies at their homes over the summer, fill them with their belongings, and ship them to the Storage Scholars warehouse (located near campus), where they stay until a week before college move-in. At that time, our talented Co-Founders and their team will use their key access to drop off those boxes before students arrive on campus. In addition to shipping boxes from their home, Students can order items from online retailers and have those dropped off before the start of the school year too. This new program was launched last summer at many of our other schools, and the students and parents who used the service for the first time raved about the convenience of the program and the efficiency with which it was executed. 

The Villanova campus is run by our amazing Campus Co-founders and Marketing Manager for a tailored and personalized experience. We are excited to provide the high level of storage service that our families across the country have come to expect. If you're eager to learn about Storage Scholars and secure your spot for an upcoming campus move, visit www.StorageScholars.com or call us today!

To get up-to-date details about Storage Scholars at Villanova, visit them on Instagram.

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Sources 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villanova_University

https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/villanova-3388

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