Alicia
It's a school by nerds, for nerds: themes for popular events this year include Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Super Mario - just what any budding nerd enjoys.
Dahyeon
The people at Rice are great and diverse. Education is flexible: majors and schools is left undeclared until second semester of sophomore year, it is easy to double major, and a pass/fail option is available in case you want to explore around before you commit to anything. Houston weather is great for most of the year.
Olivia
I love the residential college system. You get close to a small but diverse group of students - quite literally your "family" for your college life. Each college also has a group of university, community, and alumni associates, which serve as a great resource for academic advising, professional development, and personal support.
Matthew
The best thing about Rice is the sense of community and acceptance by members of the community. The campus is very diverse and most people are very friendly. Unlike a lot of other schools there isn't racial tension. Also, there aren't really any snobby, rich students who like to make it known how much money they have.
Alexandra
The best thing about Rice is the college system. It is similar to the Greek system but without the fees. The college system allows a random assortment of students, of all areas of study, to live together in their "college" or dorm for their entire undergraudate career. This way, you become part of a unique community and you get to know a good number of people really well. You still have many opportunities to meet people from the other 10 colleges but it is nice to know you have a family to come "home" to.
Arianna
The residential college system that creates a bond that is unbreakable. Orientation week is coordinated by each college and it was the start of an incredible first year at college. My transition was smooth and my memories are countless. Rice University is equal on an academic level to Harvard but with the relaxed atmosphere of UCLA. There is no place like Rice University.
Malinda
The best thing about Rice is the name. Its like buying Gucci over Walmart. Well Harvard is Gucci, Rice is more like Banana Republic. Employers and graduate schools recognise the name, which makes you look better than others in the pack. Also its got amazing financial aid for those who need it. There are also a plethora of scholarships that are specific to the school, but as a warning most of those go to the pre-meds and engineers, the same kids over and over who have amazing gpas and teachers in their back pockets.
Christine
The people, curriculum, and school life is amazing.
Eastman
The Residential College System.Upon entering Rice you are immediatly part of a community without having to worry about what fraternity or sorority to join. Also it allows you to get to know people you never would have met otherwise.
Emily
The residential college system (think like Harry Potter housing, minus the personality quiz) allows for an automatic home and community for students. This allows for a great college experience both socially and academically, for you automtically have friends, as well as people to study with.