Carnegie Mellon University

CMU is the perfect school if you are somewhat of a nerd and enjoy working hard. The academics are not impossible, but you will spend most of your time studying. Luckily, there are a lot of places to get academic help, and professors are very approachable. There is a great advising system and career center, and a lot of other resources for students. Most science, computer science and engineering majors don't party much and usually spend their weekend nights hanging out with friends, watching movies, playing games etc. Housing is okay, and thanks to the recent change in the campus dining vendor, the food can be good (though expensive).

Overall, I highly recommend CMU to motivated, slightly geeky/nerdy students. I'm very happy with my choice to attend Carnegie Mellon. I've made great friends and have learned more than I ever thought possible in one year.

1st Year Female -- Class 2013

University Resource Use/ spending: A, Surrounding City: C+

I love CMU. At first I wasn't too sure if this would be the school for me - after all, come on, CMU for Creative Writing? But it turns out the program is very respected and I felt incredibly appreciated here. H&SS, despite being the "unloved" school at CMU, seems to be the closest-knit community on campus. Many HSS kids know each other and there's a strong camaraderie.

The university as a whole is much more attractive, hard working, and intelligent than I had expected upon coming here. the social life is also great, even with a lot of the frats being on probation for various stunts during rushing/hazing. I never have trouble finding something fun to do on weekends. Kids are intellectual, but still grounded and down to earth and they know how to have fun. There are those few privileged kids who came from uber-special private schools and have never had anyone threaten their intellectual power; they're annoying as shit. But everyone else seems to ignore them or move around them and continue living their lives. So far I've loved the school and it's offered me everything I want to do. I will be completing dual coursework in Creative Writing and Human-Computer Interaction, with a minor in fine arts or design. :) Go Tartans!

1st Year Female -- Class 2013

Education Quality: A+, University Resource Use/ spending: D