Because Princeton doesn't have any professional schools, it really is the case that they focus a massive amount of resources on undergraduate education. The course load is very demanding. Actually, it's essentially impossible to complete all assigned readings for every class. But the small class sizes, precept system, and dedicated nature of the students around you make it a workable model. Also, the distribution requirements encourage students to explore in all areas. Everyone I know has had some experience where they took a class completely out of their comfort zone and had gained amazing new academic exposure, and because Princeton is so focused on undergraduates many introductory courses are taught by the best members of the faculty. For example, I am a politics major but I took an introduction to molecular biology that was taught by a Nobel Prize winner. With such a diverse student body, world-class professors, and endless opportunity for activities outside the classroom, a Princeton student is hard pressed to find a moment where he or she is not learning in some capacity.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
After spending two years at Princeton I am personally convinced that it is the greatest university in the world. The academic pressure can be entirely overwhelming, but the benefits are very tangible and the amazing environment one gets to share with fellow Princetonians makes every ounce of stress worthwhile. I feel like every time I meet a new classmate I am blown away by their story. It has been an honor and a privilege to get to know so many of these people. Also, let it be known that for as hard as Princeton students work, they definitely know how to have a good time.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
One of the foremost reasons I decided to attend Princeton was the support I received from its financial aid office. Their generosity is unmatched, which is made possible by the ongoing support of alumni and active investments by the university. Hands down no other university of Princeton's caliber that I am aware of offers anything close to the level of affordability that Princeton does. They are very serious about their mission to allow all students to graduate without any debt from student loans, and they offer fantastic support to parents with Princeton Parent Loans - a program that allows families to loan money directly from the university instead of through the government or a bank.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Be prepared to work harder than you ever imagined, but also to have a true life-changing experience. My biggest piece of advice is to explore all of your options when you get to campus. Both in academics and extracurriculars, try things you haven't done before and don't feel too obligated to make binding decisions early on. The Princeton community is all about having new experiences and lots of them, so take advantage of that!
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Princeton is great for students who are self-motivated. It is a very demanding environment, but if you stay organized it doesn't have to be overly stressful. Other than that, the beauty of Princeton is that it's great for all types of students. The diversity of interests and backgrounds make Princeton the dynamic place that it is. If you are the kind of student that is very concerned about GPA, you should be warned about the grade deflation policy. Whatever level of academic achievement you're used to, which for most Princeton students is a minimum of 4.0, for many there will be a bit of a shock when grades are released. Don't let this deter you, though. Everyone adjusts quickly to Princeton's level of expectation and a letter explaining the grade deflation policy is included with every transcript.
Because Princeton doesn't have any professional schools, it really is the case that they focus a massive amount of resources on undergraduate education. The course load is very demanding. Actually, it's essentially impossible to complete all assigned readings for every class. But the small class sizes, precept system, and dedicated nature of the students around you make it a workable model. Also, the distribution requirements encourage students to explore in all areas. Everyone I know has had some experience where they took a class completely out of their comfort zone and had gained amazing new academic exposure, and because Princeton is so focused on undergraduates many introductory courses are taught by the best members of the faculty. For example, I am a politics major but I took an introduction to molecular biology that was taught by a Nobel Prize winner. With such a diverse student body, world-class professors, and endless opportunity for activities outside the classroom, a Princeton student is hard pressed to find a moment where he or she is not learning in some capacity.
After spending two years at Princeton I am personally convinced that it is the greatest university in the world. The academic pressure can be entirely overwhelming, but the benefits are very tangible and the amazing environment one gets to share with fellow Princetonians makes every ounce of stress worthwhile. I feel like every time I meet a new classmate I am blown away by their story. It has been an honor and a privilege to get to know so many of these people. Also, let it be known that for as hard as Princeton students work, they definitely know how to have a good time.
One of the foremost reasons I decided to attend Princeton was the support I received from its financial aid office. Their generosity is unmatched, which is made possible by the ongoing support of alumni and active investments by the university. Hands down no other university of Princeton's caliber that I am aware of offers anything close to the level of affordability that Princeton does. They are very serious about their mission to allow all students to graduate without any debt from student loans, and they offer fantastic support to parents with Princeton Parent Loans - a program that allows families to loan money directly from the university instead of through the government or a bank.
Be prepared to work harder than you ever imagined, but also to have a true life-changing experience. My biggest piece of advice is to explore all of your options when you get to campus. Both in academics and extracurriculars, try things you haven't done before and don't feel too obligated to make binding decisions early on. The Princeton community is all about having new experiences and lots of them, so take advantage of that!
Princeton is great for students who are self-motivated. It is a very demanding environment, but if you stay organized it doesn't have to be overly stressful. Other than that, the beauty of Princeton is that it's great for all types of students. The diversity of interests and backgrounds make Princeton the dynamic place that it is. If you are the kind of student that is very concerned about GPA, you should be warned about the grade deflation policy. Whatever level of academic achievement you're used to, which for most Princeton students is a minimum of 4.0, for many there will be a bit of a shock when grades are released. Don't let this deter you, though. Everyone adjusts quickly to Princeton's level of expectation and a letter explaining the grade deflation policy is included with every transcript.