Bradley University — Attraction in Peoria

As an educator with over 37 years of experience, I feel a responsibility to share my perspective on Bradley University—not only as a seasoned professional in the field of education, but also as a former student in their doctoral program. My experience at this institution was profoundly disheartening, marked by repeated instances of insensitivity, marginalization, and what I perceived to be discriminatory attitudes.

One incident that exemplifies the tone I encountered occurred during a live Zoom session. In front of the entire class, the professor said to me, “Since you completed high school in Latin America, I am sure you do not know what a mind map is, so let me explain.” Such a statement was not only patronizing but deeply offensive—particularly coming from an educator in a doctoral-level program. Shockingly, this professor was among the more tactful; others were significantly worse in their tone and behavior.

However, the moment that truly “tipped the scale” came when I received a final grade of 90 in a course and reached out to the professor for clarification. I expressed my disappointment respectfully, explaining the immense effort I had invested in the course under very difficult personal circumstances. My wife is a cancer survivor, and during that semester her medical condition had deteriorated significantly. Balancing the demands of graduate-level coursework while caring for her required extraordinary perseverance. Rather than responding with empathy or professionalism, the professor replied, “I am going to take this email as your request to withdraw.”

This response was not only dismissive—it was callous, dehumanizing, and wholly inappropriate for an institution that purports to value academic integrity and student well-being. Her reaction left me feeling unseen, unsupported, and deeply disrespected at a moment when compassion would have meant everything.

I share this account not out of resentment, but out of a genuine concern for prospective students—particularly those from minority, immigrant, or international backgrounds. If you are considering enrolling at Bradley University, I urge you to look beyond the polished marketing materials and examine how the institution truly supports diversity, inclusion, and student welfare in practice.

No student should be made to feel inferior because of their cultural background or dismissed during moments of personal hardship. Higher education should serve as a platform for empowerment, dignity, and mutual respect—not one that reinforces exclusion and...

Terrible terrible school. Don't fall for the tour of their school or anything.. they forget to show you how awful and unsafe the surrounding area is and how you have no access to things like a grocery store or any entertainment for example a movie theater or places to shop like other schools. You'd think with all the money you spend to attend this place they'd do something with it to spruce up the surrounding area, but sadly no. I've even had professors tell my class how unsafe the area is and to "not walk off the bluff". The teachers are great (for the most part) but if you're looking to go to school in a food desert with nothing to do this is a great place for you! All in all, take the $200,000 you'll be spending on tuition for the next four years and spend it somewhere...

This is from an outside looking in at historical and physical campus of BU. If you are looking for a place to have a beautiful walk around during the daytime, this is a great place. View the buildings and shade trees. Be inspired by the students as they move to their next class, or end their day. The bookstore often has some clearance items if you want to support the local identity and community. Music department offers concerts, so be on the lookout for those. Statue of the founder is available for selfies at most hours. Campus is so close to many food establishments, and I dare say this is not a bad place to meet your friend in gorgeous weather for a healthy chat...