The University of Virginia

UVa does a terrific job of preparing graduates for their careers. The reputation of the University in the workplace is top shelf - in the same category as schools like Duke and Stanford. There also is a great sense of community and support for alums fostered by the Alumni Association. I always enjoy going back to Charlottesville.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000

I've been at UVA for one semester. I transfered from the University of Manchester in England.
UVA is a great school with a lot of great people. It is true that there are a lot of arrogant people, but you can find just as many nice and friendly people if you try looking for them.

It is also a great academic institution with a great reputation. Although some people may argue that the Engineering School is not ranked as highly as Engineering departments in other institutions, I really do not think that the rankings are going to make or break your future.

What people say about the difficulty and amount of work in the Engineering School is true. Some of the courses are extremely tough, especially some of the early courses used to filter out the non-serious students.

I've found that the faculty in general are helpful. Of course there is the occasional professor that is too busy with his research to help his students, but there are also a lot of help sessions and workshops held by TAs for students that need that help.

There is definitely a Study Hard - Party Hard attitude among students. Frat parties, house parties, and bars seem to be the main source of entertainment for students.

There is not a lot to do around the University in Charlottesville besides going to the movie theatre, eating out in the downtown mall, etc.To wrap it up, UVA is a great place to be and to study in. It may not appeal to everyone, but everyone can definitely make the most of it and have a good time.

Male -- Class 2000

3rd Year Female -- Class 2006

Useful Schoolwork: A+, Perceived Campus Safety: B