University of Virginia-Main Campus Top Questions

Excellent school...very intense...be prepared to do a lot of writing.

Thank you so much for involving me with my mother and my family. I'm working on a psych degree in history. Good.

The best thing about this school is definitely the community. The community is absolutely great and everyone is always willing to lend a helping hand to other people. The honor code makes it a very comfortable, trusting environment. I transferred in from Virginia Commonwealth University and so whenever I tell people I go to University of Virginia, they are always impressed and assume I'm smart, which gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment. Although academics are very rigorous and you need to study hard to do well, what you learn and take from the school is only as much as you put in so all the hard work is worth it.

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I absolutely love UVA. Recently, I was chatting with a couple of friends and we unanimously decided that there is no other place we would rather be. UVA is great because not only is it known worldwide for providing a top notch education, but there are so many awesome traditions that students and faculty are really engaged in. Charlottesville is also a great place to be for young people. There are lots of great restaurants on the Corner or Downtown and the community's music scene is really great. We get some stellar performers like Dave Matthew's Band, Luke Bryan, Macklemore, Lady Gaga, etc. There really is something for everyone! One of tje best traditions at UVA is student self governance, and the administration's respect for us. Recently, President Sullivan was dismissed without a transparent reason by the Board of Visitors, but UVA students fought back and she was reinstated. I think this shows the pride we take in our institution and our academics. The fact that the administration was so supportive of the student body's activism in the situation shows that we are a school whose stakeholders are really engaged. I think one of my best experiences at UVA has been my time in the Cavalier Marching Band. I get to participate in one of the largest groups on Grounds and the students seem to really appreciate what we do at the football games. I love participating at the football games and getting the other students super hyped about our team!

I'm so happy I came here. It's strong academically, an ideal size where you will always see new faces, but also always recognize somebody and feel at home, and the traditions are rooted deep in the school. Whether it's singing the "Good Old Song" or storming the field/court after a win, the school pride is incredible. Now I love this school to bits, but I know it's not perfect. The quality of the dining hall food is well, cafeteria food. First year orientation was awkward and slightly directionless. Days on the Lawn could be more interactive and entertaining. I guess one of the greatest tragedies of UVA is how fantastic of a school it is and yet how poor UVA is at conveying its greatness to prospective students.

This school is so diverse! You have the opportunity to meet so many different people and expand your horizons. Being one of the top public schools in the country, UVA is an academically stimulating environment as well as a close-knit, trusting community. UVa is the perfect size and Charlottesville is a wonderful town full of great people and history. Other than the questionable weather, UVa is one of the best places to spend your college career!

So I am a transfer student and I absolutely L-O-V-E it here. I honestly couldn't imagine going anywhere but here and being as happy as I am here. I think some of my favorite things about this school is that it is steeped in tradition, the quality of the classes and professors is amazing, and the people are awesome! I think it is so neat to open a book and have my history professor listed as someone who has made significant contribution in his field!

The University of Virginia (U.Va.) has transformed me. I write that will all honesty. This school has made me much more politically and socially aware of the realities and social issues that we, as young people, live in, both nationally and globally. In the very beginning I didn’t know much about the University of Virginia, nor about university life in general because I am a first-generation college student in my family. However as more time went by and I began telling other university students that I studied at U.Va. often times the response was shock and excitement because they knew how competitive and well renowned the university is. I can honestly say that I’m very proud of myself for getting through the rigorous course work here at U.Va.I feel academically enriched in a way that has made me appreciate the university so much. One of my favorite things about U.Va. is the emphasis that professors and faculty place on studying abroad. This might seem a bit random but with the globalized world we live in, it is very important for American university students to have a world perspective. International study is a big deal here at U.Va. We have a very rich international student community from all parts of the world. Already enrolled U.Va. students have many opportunities to study abroad because in most of the schools here (i.e. College of Arts and Science, Engineering School, etc.,) there exists some kind of study abroad opportunity. U.Va. makes study abroad affordable for students by providing resources like grants, loans, scholarships, and other financial assistance that caters to study abroad. I studied abroad twice and in that time, financial assistance was always available to me. Hands down, one of my favorite things about U.Va. Although there’s the increasing interest by students to study abroad, we still love to be here at U.Va. and represent our university. The football games, I would say, are when you can see the school spirit the most. Typically the football stadium is blossoming with students wearing blue, orange, and white to represent U.Va. I am not a big football fan but rather I am a fútbol (soccer) fan. Even though I do not follow football as religiously, there’s something about being at the football games, and other U.Va. athletic team, games that inspires me to enjoy watching the game and more importantly being apart of U.Va’s school spirit. Outside of athletics, I see the school spirit embedded into the Charlottesville culture and regularly everyday students. Students are always wearing their U.Va. hads, shirts, skirts, socks, sweaters, back bags and more. U.Va. is a big school, but at the same time it is not. How does that work exactly? When it comes to actual U.Va. territory technically it’s a big school. However depending on your studies it can seem quite small. For example, for many students in the Engineering School, most of the classes are concentrated in one place, meaning they spend most of their time during classes in particular area. I really like this because it gives students the option to be apart of a big school, but without feeling too overwhelmed. Also students build mini-cultures according to students in their major or in their school. U.Va.’s history has greatly influenced the City of Charlottesville, and presents the city as a college town. There are so many things in Charlottesville that cater to university students from U.Va, in the form of school mascot banners posted in store window sills, puns on store names, and student discounts. For example, students can ride public transportation, like buses, for free by only showing their student identification card. This helps students save money and encourages them to explore more of the city without spending too much money. U.Va. is truly an amazing school however no school is perfect. I think the topic of diversity at U.Va. should continue to be address because it still is a concern by many students that my university is predominantly white. To be in a nation that’s so multicultural that also needs to be universities. U.Va. is increasing in diversity but it still has a little bit ways to go. That is definitely one thing I would change about U.Va., is increasing its diversity. Also, the topic of the professors is an interesting one. U.Va. is a research institution, which is great, because it is a school that is always on the cutting-edge. However, for some professors, their research sometimes seems more primarily for them, versus teaching. Most professors are pretty good about being accessible for questions students have however I had noticed, based on some conversations I have had with friends, that professors in the hard sciences like engineering, math, physics, statistics, etc., do not seem as available. One of the reasons being because of the dedication spent in research and less in instruction. Aside from the big emphasize on study abroad, awesome discounts, and the metamorphosis experience at U.Va., it also provides a space that really engages students critically. This engagement is reflected in the public discourses, presentations, programs, and debates that my university houses. These forums provide spaces to courage “hot topics” conversations to take place on grounds (the campus). For example recently one of the biggest debates on grounds, that engulfed Student Council meetings and CavDaily (one of U.Va.’s primary newspapers) articles was the topic of a living wage for employees. This was something that really forced university students to think about the administrative decisions that were taking place that did not increase wages for non-tenure employees, like staff that worked in cafeterias, janitorial services, etc.). The students were successful at strengthening the already established Living Wage Campaign, by marching, writing letters, encouraging more support from general student body, and directly engaging with administration about the topic. I absolutely loved the experience of listening and/or reading speeches and attending events by local and student activists, advocating for equality. I would say that is something that this school is infamous for doing.

I believe strongly that the University of Virginia is far and away the best public school in the United States and is on par with Ivy League institutions. It is unique in that it possesses each of the necessary requirements for an enjoyable and fulfilling college experience: outstanding academics with dedicated professors and researchers, national championship athletic teams, a thriving social scene, and a vibrant and nurturing local community that supplements but is not overwhelmed by the University. The University possesses an undergraduate population of ~21,000, which I believe is a happy medium between the large state schools and small private colleges that allow students to meet new people every day while still maintaining close personal and professional friendships. Students at the University exhibit a large amount of school pride, both for its academics, athletic teams, and the Charlottesville community. Approximately 97{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of first-year students return for their second-year, and almost as many leave the University as graduates with fond memories of their time in Charlottesville. The one experience I will always remember is my time as a student-athlete. I played on the Men's Tennis Team from 2005-2009 while earning my Bachelors degree. But I also had the chance to experience the University as a "normal" student while earning my Master of Arts from 2010-2011. My love for the University notwithstanding, there are certainly flaws and some odd traditions. For one, students are not called "freshmen," "sophomore," etc. but instead "first-year," "second-year," etc. Also the University's "campus" is called "Grounds," Ph.D.'s are called "Mr." instead of "Dr.", and Thomas Jefferson and his wishes guide most of the University's decisions. And if I had to change one aspect of the University, I would increase faculty salaries to encourage the best researchers and teachers to come to the University.

I do very much like the University of Virginia. My favorite part about it is the Echols Program, which is for the select highest percent of applicants and open to first years who wish to apply. It allowed me to create my own niche at the University, by designing my own major and exempting me from all general requirements. Personally, I prefer smaller classes and smaller Universities, but the wonderful thing about UVa is that the feeling you get depends on your program! Since I am in a smaller program with a handful of people in the major program, I get the feeling of a small University and get to enjoy in depth classes with lots of one-on-one time with the professor. Aside from the academics, UVa is located in the perfect college town of Charlottesville. There are lots of fun things to do, from hiking to apple-picking to exploring the incredible historical sites. There is a lot of school pride as well, with things like "Girls in pearls, guys in ties" at the football games, the Good Ole Song, streaking the lawn, and the strange traditions (incoming freshman need to learn the lingo: Grounds not campus, first-year not freshman, and don't call your professors "professor"!). Personally, my greatest experience here has been with the amazing professors I've had a chance to work with. I've been incredibly lucky in that sense!

I was originally enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences at UVA, however I transferred into the School of Nursing BSN/RN program after my second year. Thus, my opinion of the school will pertain to the School of Nursing at UVA because this is where I have spent almost all of my undergraduate career. Overall, I have had an absolutely incredible view of the School of Nursing. I am really proud to be a wahoo here. At the School of Nursing each class is roughly 96 or so people. Because our class is so small and we take all of our classes together we get to know everyone incredibly well. By fourth year, you know pretty much everyone's name in your class. However, your first two years in the school you only take 3 or 4 nursing classes total allowing you the opportunity to take lots of classes outside of the nursing school. This gives you the opportunity of continually meeting new people within the university your first and second year. And even after that, there are so many students working at the hospital, especially in the emergency department that are not in the nursing school allowing you to continually meet new people. Thus, you have this incredible balance of people you are so comfortable with and spend several days a week with, and then the opportunity to constantly meet new people and make new friends. Additionally, the staff at the school of nursing is unbelievable. They are so dedicated to their students. Several of our teachers make it a point to get to know the names of every single student in our entire class! They are always free to talk and willing to meet with you. And our Dean at the Nursing School spoke to our fourth year class and promised to personally assist students in helping find a job. And she stated that last year she met with about 60{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the students to help them out. To me, that is pretty incredible. Outside of the academic world I really like the living situation at UVA. Most students either live in the JPA area (near the hospital) or the 14th street/corner area. Regardless, there are always people around and something going on. And it is nice to be off campus, no longer in a dorm, be able to make your own food and really feel like you have your own place. In terms of groups or organizations there is one for everybody. There are houses dedicated to certain religious groups or different languages or cultures. Also, there are several clubs that could fit just about any interest, some that you may not even have known you had. For instance, I tried fencing my first year – it was a really neat experience! Well, I could go on and on about UVA, but overall it is a wonderful school with a great environment and lots of incredible opportunities. I am really glad that I chose to go to this school.

I truly don't feel that there is any University in the world that is run quite like ours. Not because we're any better or worse than anyone, but I truly do believe that we have many unique aspects of life as a UVA student. From our Honor Code to our traditions to our implementation of self-governance and love for our founder Mr. Jefferson, UVA students are ones that have much pride for our school and much respect for each other. The Grounds of this University are treated as somewhat of a sanctuary, and I don't use that term lightly. I truly feel at ease and comfortable walking around this school, and for such a large and research-oriented University, it truly does feel much smaller than it is. The town of Charlottesville surrounding UVA is one that is rich in culture, music, and so much great food! It is very much a college town, and students, faculty, and locals alike have much pride to be part of this atmosphere. It is extremely hospitable, and from the second I started school here, I've known it was a place I could call home.

The University of Virginia is a great school in just about every aspect one can think of. First off, UVa is consistently rated, year in and year out, as one of the top public universities in the United States for quality of education as compared to cost incurred from student expenses. The quality of higher education that one receives from the University is almost second to none, considering it is a public university. The faculty at the University are really friendly, extremely smart, and always willing to help if the students reach out and ask them. Second, the school is a rather large to medium sized school. There are approximately 15,000 undergraduate students enrolled at the University. Getting around the UVa is rather simple. It is really bike friendly, with a lot of bike racks all over grounds and bike lanes on the roads. The University also has a great bus system that runs all over grounds in 15 minute cycles. Furthermore, the grounds around UVa are absolutely gorgeous. The college is in fact a UNESCO World Heritage site. The old architecture around grounds is really stunning. If there had to be one thing I changed about UVa it would amount of construction that goes on around grounds. The University consistently has different construction projects going on around grounds that can be rather loud and inconveniencing. Additionally, the party scene at UVa is great. With a huge greek life there is always some fraternity party going on to attend, and the university police are actually rather nice. They are really only there to keep the students safe and do not heckle or trouble the students much. Overall, the University of Virginia is a top tier college in many different categories.

I really like this University. It was hard adjusting at first because there was just so much to do and it was hard leaving home. I was actually placed in a single my first year so we didn't have the traditional hall style which made my experience a little different then you're typical first year experience. I really like the activities fairs because there are literally so many different groups that you can be a part of and the days of the activities fairs are when you can really get to see all that the school has to offer.

I absolutely LOVE UVa and everything about it. The student body is very, very welcoming and respectful and there is a big community of trust. The Honor Committee is 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} student run, which is another unique thing about UVa. During the school week, students are very focused on their classes and on the weekends, there are tons of parties/concerts/school events to attend. I have never found myself bored and unsure of what to do with my time. On Saturdays, the home football games are a blast to (the football team is getting better)!! Charlottesville is a great college town and I have always felt safe there, and there is the downtown mall which has probably a hundred restaurants/shops. There is a lot of school pride at UVa and most people love it there. I would say the student body is roughly 1/3 students from NOVA (Northern VA), 1/3 from ROVA (Rest of VA), and 1/3 from out of state.

I have a very positive and respectful opinion of my school. The best thing about my school is the wide array of opportunities, networking and other forms of resources available to students. All these can be accessible as a UVA student it just takes some time finding the right opportunity for oneself. Many people react positively when I tell them I go to UVA as they realize the high education standards and the honor code system present at the school. Furthermore, I feel that the school administrate takes care of the students as safety is a top priority at the school. The UVA police, Saferide, and other services are available for students at late hours when trying to reach safely back from their dorm. There is also a lot of school pride especially at home football games. Also, many students uphold the traditions of the college such as the Lighting of the Lawn.

I love UVA. The academics are top-tier. You learn from the very best and brightest professors, and you get a very prestigious diploma that shows very hard work. The social scene is amazing. There are 27 frats that throw down from time to time. Other student clubs, sports teams, and organizations also throw parties. The size is perfect. It's not as big as places like Penn State or University of Florida, but it's not a small school either like William and Mary. It's big enough so you are always meeting new people, but it's small enough so that you'll at least recognize about half the people in your class year by the end of the first semester. The UVA label carries a lot of weight. When I was applying for seasonal employment, I told the HR people that I go to UVA, and they were all really impressed. Charlottesville is an amazing college town. The 14th street-Rugby Road and Jefferson Park Avenue neighborhoods are just about all UVA students renting out houses and apartments. The Corner and downtown mall mostly caters to UVA students. Overall UVA seems to have good town/gown relations. I really don't like the administration. They never seem to fix the problems with class registration (SIS, hate it!). They also don't seem to understand that some students are on scholarship given through another source, so they will bug your about tuition even if you submitted a late tuition payment form. They're pretty hard to work with. The UVA school spirit is awesome. Gamedays are very big, and there is a lot of support for the team. Everyone is decked out in UVA gear. Some of the streets even have the Cavalier logo painted on them. Love the school spirit. There are also a lot of events for the students. Our first year council has had a first year formal, a hoedown, and a first year tailgate in the McCormick quad. It's really fun being a student here. If I could change anything, I'd give the incoming first years more choices in regard to housing. Your first year dorm is completely luck of the draw, and some of the dorms just downright suck. I'd also improve the quality of the food. The dining halls are pretty bad.

One of the best things about UVA is that although it is a fairly large sized school, I see familiar faces everyday. There are very few commuters and therefore most students live either on or in walking distance to the campus grounds. When I first got accepted to UVA, I was definitely worried about the number of students, fearing that I might get overlooked or lost in the crowd. After a few weeks, I began to recognize people everywhere. As a fourth year, I see at least one person I know on grounds everyday. It really makes you feel at home here. Another great thing about this school is the amount of activities offered and that students actually attend them as well. For example, we have Trick-or-treating on the lawn, where students Charlottesville families can come trick-or-treat on the lawn. Also Lighting of the Lawn is a big tradition during the holiday season where students go to the lawn and watch as the Christmas Lights are turned on for the remainder of the year. Acapela groups sing, which is another popular tradition to watch. The tradition here at UVA is a really unique characteristic, and in my opinion unlike most other schools.

I absolutely love UVa. I have wanted to go there since I was in the 3rd grade, so it's really a dream come true for me, and it's even better than I could have possibly imagined. I have made some of the best friends I could ever wish for and I really feel a since of belonging. I don't think there is anything I would change about UVa. The size is just right, not too big or small. When I tell people I go to UVa, they always seem impressed, which gives me a sense of accomplishment. I spend a lot of time in my room studying, because I have a single room, but a lot of people like to study in the library. Even though there is a lot of work to be done, I always have time to go out with my friends on the weekend, and sometimes we take road trips, which is always fun. There is a lot of school pride, particularly on football game days, which are so much fun. There are so many wonderful experiences I've had at UVa, but I think some of the most memorable ones are my first "Lighting of the Lawn," my first "Trick or Treating on the Lawn," and my first party at UVa with the IMP Society.