Brandeis is the perfect place for anybody who does not only seek a rigorous and rewarding education in the classroom, but also for those who pursue an environment rich in culture and diversity. Yes, while there is a strong Jewish presence both in reputation and in person, there are far more people than those of Judaic faith -- people from literally all corners of the world contribute their individual cultures and beliefs for the perfect world village. Besides, its location near Boston and Cambridge makes Brandeis perfect for volunteering opportunities, internships, and even a vibrant social scene.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Make sure that you study everything you possibly can in high school. Brandeis is a place that seeks active participation in academics in their applicants and making sure to take those classes that challenge you will clearly give you an advantage. Also make sure to volunteer and do extracurricular activities. There is so much to do on campus and there is something for everyone (even I was a skeptic about this and now I can't find the time to be involved in everything I seek to join!). Learning to balance your time and effort early in high school will certainly impress the Admissions Office and also allow you to balance yourself once here.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
Brandeis has a well-earned reputation that its science disciplines are particularly rigorous. Indeed they are -- however, this derives from the fact that work is mostly fast-paced and independent (textbook readings are a must as will additional, however optional, practice problems). The same applies to all other courses, as well. From German to Natural Nanotechnology, all courses will keep your hands full but will reward you heavily as the learning comes in tremendous amounts. Besides, the professors and other programs here are always more than willing to help you whenever you need to.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
Each dormitory varies depending on location and the Quad (section) they are in, however they are all great. Freshman dorms in particular (located in Massell and North Quads) are fantastic to meet people. While they are in different sections of campus (Massell is much more central to campus while North is nearing the edge), they each have their own perks, such as being near different dining halls and lecture buildings. Overall, the dorms are not 5-star hotel suites, but they are doable and will provide a bonding experience with not only your roommates but also the people in your hall. Some of the strongest friendships were created from socializing within the dormitories!
Describe the food and dining at your college.
In 2013, Brandeis changed dining providers from Aramark to Sodexo. The latter has so far provided a variety of dining choices to students, and returning students have said that the food is by far better than previous years'. Freshmen don't complain as food is often tasty. If there is any issue, it would be the lack of variety in the Sherman Dining Hall (All-you-care-to-eat services) -- however this is usually resolved by alternating between dining locations as they all provide their different tastes!
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
Brandeis' location near Boston and Cambridge makes it the ideal location for anybody who seeks to spend a night in the city. Furthermore, Brandeis does have an arcade-style location in the Usdan Student Center that allows for students to enjoy themselves without leaving campus. Although fraternities are not recognized by the university, they do exist and often have off-campus parties which can in turn be quite fun. There is no shortage of activities in the Brandeis campus either as there is always something going on -- from mud parties to movie nights to good-fun competitions.
Brandeis is the perfect place for anybody who does not only seek a rigorous and rewarding education in the classroom, but also for those who pursue an environment rich in culture and diversity. Yes, while there is a strong Jewish presence both in reputation and in person, there are far more people than those of Judaic faith -- people from literally all corners of the world contribute their individual cultures and beliefs for the perfect world village. Besides, its location near Boston and Cambridge makes Brandeis perfect for volunteering opportunities, internships, and even a vibrant social scene.
Make sure that you study everything you possibly can in high school. Brandeis is a place that seeks active participation in academics in their applicants and making sure to take those classes that challenge you will clearly give you an advantage. Also make sure to volunteer and do extracurricular activities. There is so much to do on campus and there is something for everyone (even I was a skeptic about this and now I can't find the time to be involved in everything I seek to join!). Learning to balance your time and effort early in high school will certainly impress the Admissions Office and also allow you to balance yourself once here.
Brandeis has a well-earned reputation that its science disciplines are particularly rigorous. Indeed they are -- however, this derives from the fact that work is mostly fast-paced and independent (textbook readings are a must as will additional, however optional, practice problems). The same applies to all other courses, as well. From German to Natural Nanotechnology, all courses will keep your hands full but will reward you heavily as the learning comes in tremendous amounts. Besides, the professors and other programs here are always more than willing to help you whenever you need to.
Each dormitory varies depending on location and the Quad (section) they are in, however they are all great. Freshman dorms in particular (located in Massell and North Quads) are fantastic to meet people. While they are in different sections of campus (Massell is much more central to campus while North is nearing the edge), they each have their own perks, such as being near different dining halls and lecture buildings. Overall, the dorms are not 5-star hotel suites, but they are doable and will provide a bonding experience with not only your roommates but also the people in your hall. Some of the strongest friendships were created from socializing within the dormitories!
In 2013, Brandeis changed dining providers from Aramark to Sodexo. The latter has so far provided a variety of dining choices to students, and returning students have said that the food is by far better than previous years'. Freshmen don't complain as food is often tasty. If there is any issue, it would be the lack of variety in the Sherman Dining Hall (All-you-care-to-eat services) -- however this is usually resolved by alternating between dining locations as they all provide their different tastes!
Brandeis' location near Boston and Cambridge makes it the ideal location for anybody who seeks to spend a night in the city. Furthermore, Brandeis does have an arcade-style location in the Usdan Student Center that allows for students to enjoy themselves without leaving campus. Although fraternities are not recognized by the university, they do exist and often have off-campus parties which can in turn be quite fun. There is no shortage of activities in the Brandeis campus either as there is always something going on -- from mud parties to movie nights to good-fun competitions.