Miami University-Oxford Top Questions

My experience at Miami is something I will cherish for the rest of my life because of innumerable opportunities that were presented to me. When you consider a classic, traditional institution, Miami's campus is the first to come to mind, but when considering everything occurring at this school, one will soon understand it is a constantly evolving university. One of the ways this is possible is because of the fact that this is the perfect environment for the undergraduate student, with professors easily accessible and always willing to sit down and discuss various topics with students. An opportunity that I have had at Miami that is unlike any other has been being part of the Men's Glee Club here. Through this group, I have made several trips to various destinations throughout the United States and Europe while learning so much about myself in the process. It is opportunities such as this that separate Miami University from other institutions.

Starting answering!I have a very high opinion of Miami. Miami is known as “the public ivy” because it offers the same sort of education one would get at an ivy league school for public school prices. Miami is known as a really great school and people are generally impressed when they find out that’s where I go. Honestly, First of all the professors are great. I really have never had a professor that didn’t seem to care about the students. Most of the classes I have taken have professors who are really passionate about what they teach, which always makes class more interesting. The campus is beautiful, we are all very proud of the fact that the poet, Robert Frost, said that Miami is “the most beautiful college there is.” It is exactly what I imagined my college would look like, red brick buildings, lots of trees and grassy areas, and the same general feel to it that it has had since it was established over 200 years ago. The town of Oxford is a small rural community and “Uptown,” is the hub. There are bars and clubs and a really great variety of restaurants. I spend a lot of my time Uptown, studying in Kofenya coffee shop during the week, meeting up with friends for dinner, and having fun at Brick Street or one of the other bars on the weekend. Miami is a really great mix of tradition, fantastic academics, and a fun environment.

Miami is seriously an amazing school. People tend to judge me when i say I go there as some super rich kid but I'm not like that and neither are any of my friends. Most of the professors really care about the students. There are some that aren't available all the time but most of them will get back to you after you email them or if you can't make their office hours they will set up a time with you to meet. The campus is gorgeous too. There are tons of trees and paths for you run or walk on in the woods. There is a ton of school pride. I've never met anyone who was ashamed to go there. Our alumni are really involved too. They always come to our hockey games and cheer with us. Hockey is really our biggest sport and the games are intense, you tend to get swept up in the cheers and the crowd. I was never a hockey fan until I came here. Oxford is such a college town. There are all kinds of places to eat uptown like Bagel and Deli and Mac and Joe's which is this cool place to eat that sits back in an alley. It looks slightly scary but the food is amazing. I'll always remember going to one of my friend's graduations and hearing the speaker that the kids nominated comparing life and graduation to Kung Fu Panda. But those are just our professors. They really try to relate to us. Everyone I've talked to that graduates says they want to go back. It really means something to get a degree from Miami. People come from all around the world because its such a great school. I've made connections with people just because I go there. It's awesome.

The thing about Miami University is that there are so many good qualities. In high school, I was the kid who really didn't get involved with anything, but that changed when I started attending Miami. Even though I'm a commuter (which makes it a tad more difficult to really be involved with everything on campus), there are still ways to get involved. While the campus is large, it fits with the aesthetic of Miami, not just in appearance but in how one feels when they step on campus. Located in the tiny little town of Oxford, OH (which is, without a doubt, a college town), stepping within the borders of campus is like stepping into an entirely different world. The most popular place on campus for people to spend their time is usually the Shriver Center; however the off campus places are more abundant. All of the restaurants in "Uptown" is where most students spend their weekends--from the movies to shows at Brick Street to eating at any of the fantastic restaurants, there is always something to do. One thing that ninety-percent of the people at Miami have in common is their school pride. On any given day at campus, just walking down Spring Street, one can see at least fifty people sporting something with their schools name plastered across it. But it goes beyond the school pride for students attending and applies to the recent alums, alums from years passed, and the family of students currently attending. Honestly, I think my parents own more Miami clothes than I do--and I own my fair share. When one can connect with anyone based on their school pride, it's a beautiful thing. I can wear my Miami shirt anywhere I go, and people will respect that. Miami University has the reputation of being one of the most prestigious schools in Ohio (one could even argue, in the midwest) and that by itself receives interest from others. Dealing with complaints, the one that I've heard most frequently from any students--from freshman to seniors--is the scheduling and registration for classes. The times for people to register aren't displayed easily--one can only see them if they're logged into BlackBoard and under the "BannerWeb" option where, well, one doesn't usually go to that page for fun. On top of this issue, a lot of classes for certain majors, or even just the Miami Plan, are not offered frequently enough or are given such a small cap, that it can be nearly impossible to register for the classes that one needs to graduate. I, myself, have had this issue a few times. However, if those in control of this would be able to work on it, I do believe that this major issue would be solved.

Personally, I love Miami. I have very little to complain about, and quite a bit to praise. I knew from the time I was a little girl that I would go here, and the day I got my acceptance letter was one of the best memories I have. The campus is gorgeous, especially in the fall. At first glance the campus might seem pretty big, but in reality you can get anywhere you want in fifteen minutes on foot. Right off campus is "Uptown," which has a ton of restaurants and clubs, as well as other fun things to do all within walking distance. Oxford also has a lot in driving distance as well. I prefer a bigger school, so Miami has the perfect amount of people for me. It isn't huge, but there are about 16,000 students on campus. Many of my fellow high school graduates go here, but since the campus is so big, I usually only see them if I choose to. We have a ton of school pride, with an outstanding hockey team and a marching band that got to bring in Santa in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year. The faculty are awesome, and usually work side by side with students to help the learning process grow. There are so many great majors to choose from, all in gorgeous red brick buildings. The dorms are great, too. First year students get to live in Living Learning Communities, which is a program that places you in a dorm based on your interests and major to help build friendship and learning. Last year I got to live with a bunch of music and art students, which is an experience I will treasure forever. I met some of my closest friends there, and we all had a great time. The only real complaint I have about Miami is the cost, but I think that comes with any university. Miami is a little expensive, but to me it is completely worth it. I have learned incredible things so far, and I can't wait to take what I've learned and apply it to my job when I graduate. Going to Miami is one of the best decisions you will ever make. I promise.

Miami University is a fantastic school. The best aspect of Miami University would have to be its amazing academics (Of course! This is why we come to college, right?). Professors at Miami University are caring and always ready to help students at any given time. Nearly all professors at Miami create a comfortable atmosphere to welcome students to the new semester! Whichever field you decide to study, Miami will have you prepared for whatever comes your way after graduation! Of course, we all know that students need a break from studying at Miami University. Who wants to spend their weekend cooped up in a college dorm room reading about Shakespeare or Adam Smith's invisible hand? Uptown provides plenty of entertainment for your weekends, whether you want to enjoy a romantic dinner, grab a beer, dance at a club, or even do arts and crafts at "You're Fired!". This campus is definitely a college town - but what does the phrase "college town" entail? Brick buildings and beautiful green trees lining the streets scream "college town" in Oxford and many feel that this environment is perfect for studying, enjoying a long walk or bike ride, or hanging out with your friends on the weekends. Uptown is just a few blocks away, so you never have to worry about finding a way of transportation to have fun! Don't let this fool you, though; Miami is not a small school in regards to its students. You are constantly seeing new faces, however, certain faces become recognizable very quickly! Miami University's size is just right!

Coming from the East Coast, most people do not know about Miami University, but it has really provided me with an amazing college experience. Not only is it the perfect size, but there are so many opportunities made available to the students whether through greek life, religious groups, or campus clubs, giving it a small college feel. I am in the English Department, but since Miami is a liberal arts college, I have been able to take some of the most interesting classes, that at another school I do not think I would have had the same opportunity. In addition, I have had some of the most amazing professors, that have really made a big impact on my time at Miami. I have had the ability to visit many college campuses while I have been in school, and the best feeling in the world is coming back to Miami. The is a truly welcoming feeling to both the campus and the students, and I would not trade that for anything. The classes I have taken were great, the friends I have made will never be forgotten, and the times both on campus and uptown can never be replaced. Miami is not perfect for everyone, but I would not choose to go anywhere else.

Like all higher-level educational institutions, Miami University has both its strengths and weaknesses. If students are searching for a school that offers city life, Miami University is not the best choice. One can easily ask “what college town?” as Oxford, Ohio is small, and thus rather limited in what it offers. An array of cute cafes, a small theater, antique store, hardware store, and a Kroger’s, and a smattering of drugstores and hairstylists makes up the town. While a Wal-Mart is also only a short distance a way, simply put, Oxford has necessities, and little else in form of entertainment. For night life, one would have to drive to Cincinnati or Dayton. Another area of concern involves scheduling for classes. While Miami University does attempt to set each student with an advisor, it is of the student’s own volition to seek help; an advisor likely will not request you meet with them, unless you are a new student. Like other schools its size, Miami University scheduling is not personal; rather, one must be aware of scheduling periods and register online him or herself. For a new student, this process can be stressful, as classes fill quickly and registering is on a first come, first serve basis. Students must be quick to get the classes they wish, but they must also be informed and aware of the basic requirements required of a Miami Education. As Miami University is a liberal arts college, the Miami Plan requires students take subjects outside of their respective majors. This can cause a problem, as the requirements are very specific, and failure to pay close attention to these may mean an extra half year of school. Nonetheless, if students seek help for scheduling, there are also options such as force adding a class, as well as a decent sampling of courses offered during the summer. A few other complaints about Miami University may include pedestrian safety, dorm noise, and accessibility of the information via the school’s website. Lately, concerns have risen concerning pedestrian safety, in lieu of four consecutive incidents around and in the campus in a two-week period. In one instance, a student had to be airlifted to the nearest hospital. Most cases, of course, are less severe, but there clearly is cause for concern. A mixture of careless driving, unaware pedestrians, and congested streets are all concerns that need to be raised at some point. In terms of dorm life, experience can depend largely on where one lives, as each quad of the campus has a different ‘personality’. North quad tends to be noisier, and central less so. However, in all dorms there are time when it is difficult to study and sleep at reasonable hours, despite the implication of quiet hours. Perhaps stricter RA’s are needed to enforce these policies, to ensure that a student can sleep and study in his or her dorm. Lastly, Miami University’s website lacks coherence; that is, one must search for a while to find information. There are broken links and the search engine is not very accurate. If one wants to find information, it is often easier to find faculty on campus and pose questions there. That said, faculty is very quick and helpful in response to email communication. All of this said, Miami University has plenty of things to boast over. The beauty of the campus is clearly a step above and beyond most state schools, and even many small private ones. With classic architecture and mature trees, green spaces and sculptures, Miami University is aseptically appealing. It is an ideal place for studying, picnicking, and playing outside. The buildings themselves are generally in good condition, as the University does its best to make renovations on an annual basis. Constantly the University tries to cater to student’s needs; currently a new student center is being constructed, along with an array of new dining options. Miami University dining seems very underrated; the campus food, though not perhaps the very best, is a good deal above passable. Fresh options are available, as well as typical ‘college food’. The sheer number of locations is above commendable; anywhere you live on campus, you are sure to have at least one if not several options literally outside your dorm. Unique to other campuses, Miami University also has four on campus mini markets, which are particularly useful for very busy students or students living in apart5ments. Building hours and resources available to students are also commendable aspects. King Library, which is open twenty –four hours, is very well stocked with books for research purposes. With study rooms, a Starbucks coffee, computers, group meeting rooms, and a writing help center, the library is very useful and pleasing. Many academic buildings are also open extensive hours, and there is also at least a few dining options available to students regardless of the day. The recreational center is spacious, new, and offers an array of activities. Group and personal classes are available, and a number of club sports as well. The pool is nearly always available for alp swimming, even during meets, as is the upstairs indoor track, basketball court, and weightlifting facilities. Additionally, there is a rock climbing wall, racquetball, table tennis, and many more options. The building is opened from very early in the morning until eleven at night. One cannot talk of Miami University’s strong points without discussing its academic programs. Known for professional professors and dedication to its undergraduate students, Miami University lives up to its name. Unlike many other large schools, Miami does not have TA’s, but professors teaching their respective courses. Office hours are flexible, and students should have no difficulty finding time to personally meet with their professors. Miami University does a good job of promoting undergraduate research and internships, as well as career path resources. One does, however, have to take the intiative to become involved in such opportunities. Something can also be said of the quality of the student body itself, as the acceptance rate is lower than counterpart state schools. The quality of education is undeniable; Miami University has been recognized nationally for many different academic divisions, as well as one of the nation’s top Universities for undergraduate study. Miami boasts a top ten national spot for highest graduation rates. The prospects pots graduation for Miami students are good as well; in terms of salary and job placement, Miami University ranks first among public Ohio schools and 34th nationally. Lastly, the size of Miami University is something to be recognized. Neither small nor excessively large, the University offers the variety and accessibility other large schools offer, with personalized attention to its students. While Miami Plan classes often are lecture halls, inside ones major usually classes comprise of no more than thirty students. There is a large enough student body for diversity, but not so large a student feels he or she is merely a number. Weighing the negatives and positives, Miami University is a solid educational institution that offers students a quality education in a pleasing environment.

When you attend Miami University at some point you are bound to get the question: "How do you like Florida?" As a native New Jerseyan, I get this question a lot which proves that this school is definitely one of the country's best kept secrets. I've found that the number of undergraduate students is just right. I like that I can see a friendly face or two just about every time I leave my residence hall, but at the same time am meeting new people on a daily basis. The small town of Oxford, Ohio is not only beautiful but it is full of things to do on and off campus. It is truly a place where you can experience a fun time on any night of your choosing. The bars uptown are 18+, providing places to go and socialize, whether it be with close friends or new acquaintances. If the bars aren't your thing, there are house parties on almost every corner. That's not to say that weekends are all about partying and going out. The Oxford area offers plenty of activities for those who may not identify with Miami's party scene. Our division one athletic programs provide the student body with exciting sporting events that they can attend for free with a Miami ID. Most notably, Miami is known for having a top tier hockey team that consistently delivers an exciting game atmosphere. The campus consists of beautiful brick buildings and gorgeous scenery including the Western campus bridges and the formal gardens. The weather can be polarizing at times, but a true Miami student knows how to dress accordingly and brave the erratic climate. I, personally, have seen numerous college campuses over the course of my lifetime including ivy league schools like Brown and Cornell which are known for their classic beauty. However, upon setting foot on Miami's campus it was obvious to me that those schools paled in comparison to the lovely setting that Oxford provides. It was very clear right away that I belonged here. After finishing my first semester at Miami I can gladly say that I was right.

When you attend Miami University at some point you are bound to get the question: "How do you like Florida?" As a native New Jerseyan, I get this question a lot which proves that this school is definitely one of the country's best kept secrets. I've found that the number of undergraduate students is just right. I like that I can see a friendly face or two just about every time I leave my residence hall, but at the same time am meeting new people on a daily basis. The small town of Oxford, Ohio is not only beautiful but it is full of things to do on and off campus. It is truly a place where you can experience a fun time on any night of your choosing. The bars uptown are 18+, providing places to go and socialize, whether it be with close friends or new acquaintances. If the bars aren't your thing, there are house parties on almost every corner. That's not to say that weekends are all about partying and going out. The Oxford area offers plenty of activities for those who may not identify with Miami's party scene. Campus consists of beautiful brick buildings and gorgeous scenery including the Western campus bridges and the formal gardens. The weather can be polarizing at times, but a true Miami student knows how to dress accordingly and brave the erratic climate. I, personally, have seen numerous college campuses over the course of my lifetime including ivy league schools like Brown and Cornell which are known for their classic beauty. However, upon setting foot on Miami's campus it was obvious to me that those schools paled in comparison to the lovely setting that Oxford provides. It was very clear right away that I belonged here. After finishing my first semester at Miami I can gladly say that I was right.