The University of Richmond

The reason I chose UR was because of financial aid, but I think that it has been an overall good decision. The Academics are challenging and interesting. The professors are top notch, and are highly considered in their respective fields. This school offers amazing opportunities for those willing to utilize the resources that are available. For me, I did paid, independent, undergraduate research in political science as a Freshman. The support faculty jump at the chance to help you if you ask. I have a friend who had career services find an internship for him, which he will start this next semester. All he had to do was ask and he had close to half of the faculty in that office helping him out. Also if you want to do study abroad the University almost pays you to go, so its another great opportunity. There are a tremendous amount of opportunities here that are just waiting to be used. That being said, the social life here can be smothering. It revolves around the fraternities and drinking, which if you're someone like me you're just not interested in. If you are willing to look though there are an abundance of alternative groups, activities, and events that occur on-campus all the time. You can be a DJ for the radio station, be a part of a club, climb to the top of the dining hall, or discover where the UR mummy is located on campus. It can take a bit of searching to break out of the frat scene, but once you do you will find a vibrant campus and city just waiting for you. One other thing I want to address is the lack of school spirit. Students can be self-absorbed at times, which probably is a problem at most private liberal arts colleges that get half of their students from private high schools. The school gives a lot of opportunities though for going to games and with the new football stadium on-campus this might turn around. If you are a driven student that wants to succeed and is willing to be creative with your social life. I highly recommend this school, otherwise it can be easy to be smothered by the rigorous academics and stagnant frat-centered social life.

1st Year Male -- Class 2015

Education Quality: A+, Innovation: F

The University of Richmond was the only liberal arts college I applied to. I figured that I would benefit more from a larger, more well known university, but I am glad that I was lured in by the great financial aid at Richmond and the scenic campus.

Richmond is a great place to learn and grow. Professors give individual attention to students and the curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking. One of the aspects I liked most about UR was the undergraduate research program, particularly in the sciences. It is very easy to get involved in research even as a freshman. Originally, I started off as a premed student, but after the my research experience I was turned on to graduate school. The undergrad research experience really gives students a competitive edge for grad school, too, with student co-authored publications in major journals not being uncommon. The premed program here is also very good, and many of my friends got into medical school without a problem.

I was also impressed with the humanities classes I took and felt I learned a lot in the small classes. Everyone got a chance to talk and discuss their viewpoints and the professors were very good in facilitating discussions.

Although I only took one course from the business school -intro to microeconomics- it was well taught and interesting. The business school at Richmond also has an outstanding reputation.Overall, I would highly recommend the University of Richmond, especially if you are interested in science, medicine, or business.

4th Year Male -- Class 2011

Education Quality: A+, Social Life: B

University of Richmond is my dream come true!! Everything about this place is magical. The classes are small and intimate, and the professors are there to help you, not hurt you. Even in the highly competitive biology program, students work together. They don't want to see their classmates fall through the cracks. Office hours are incredibly helpful if you don't understand a concept, or just need a quick review. My organic chemistry professor sat with me patiently for over a half hour explaining a concept to me until I understood it 100%.

The weather is beautiful, and we easily have the most gorgeous campus in the entire US (ok, so I'm a little biased, but it's still fantastic). The campus is always clean and well-maintained, and I'm proud to call this campus my home. The food is way above average. It's very tasty, and the only complaint I've ever heard is about a lack in variety.

But essentially, it's the people that make this college so amazing. I'm from the Northeast, and my best friends are from Virginia, Peru, and Honk Kong. Every single person that I've met on this campus (and I've met A LOT of people) has been nothing but warm and welcoming. The sense of community that UR fosters is unbelievable. Every time break comes around, I can't wait for it to end so I can go back home to UR. Going to University of Richmond was the best decision I've ever made! I'm graduating next year, and I will head to medical school to become a specialized surgeon, and I am 100% prepared. Academically, socially, and emotionally UR has been a wonderful experience. The only problem is the price tag. It's very expensive, but I cannot stress this enough - THE EXPERIENCE IS WORTH THE HIGH PRICE TAG!!!! PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS!! Don't let some stupid price tag keep you from having an amazing experience. Even though I will graduate over $40,000 in debt, I know that this school has given me a solid foundation to build my life upon, and I would not change anything about it!

3rd Year Female -- Class 2010

Faculty Accessibility: A+, Innovation: B+