The University of Richmond

I have been in this place for 2 months only but I'm loving it. Before I came here I read so many things saying that I will become an alcoholic, be raped and all kind of other horrible stuff. It's true that there's not much for you to do, either on campus or downtown Richmond, especially if you are used to a big city life; but I have fun all the time and I am not a party animal, I don't drink I am not planning to go the greek way. I hang out with all kind of people and I love the girls on my floor. We hang out together a lot everyone is so nice. My professors are very friendly and they will help me any time I need it. They are just a bit strict on not missing any class. I thought the courses would be quite easy for me because I was an IB kid but they are actually quie challenging. But if you stop procrastinating and really concentrate in class, you can make it.

1st Year Female -- Class 2012

Education Quality: A+, Individual Value: B+

I truly think UR is one of the best kept secrets of higher education. Its a gorgeous setting, right on the edge of a decently sized but extremely approachable city, academics are challenging but not competitive, neither TA's nor into lectures with more than 50 students don't exist and professors are interesting and care about their students. Possibly best of all, it's getting better every year.

On campus tours, many prospectives are turned off by what they consider "overly preppy" students, who they perceive as therefore stuck-up and arrogant. It's not the case at all, while UR students would probably appear over-dressed if transplanted onto almost any other college campus, I consider it a reflection of the respect they have for their professors and fellow classmates.

One last point that turns people off is the pricetag. Just know that UR is one of only a handful of universities in the national that at the same time practices completely need-blind admissions, while at the same time meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need. This probably isn't groundbreaking to anyone, but do yourself a favor, give UR a closer look.

4th Year Female -- Class 2006

Education Quality: A+, Innovation: A-