The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN, USA
Public
4 Year

Emily's Review

Review of The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

from Bartlett, TN

Describe your college in three sentences.

My freshman year at the University of Tennessee has been absolutely amazing. The campus is gorgeous, especially for being in downtown Knoxville, and there's so much to do in the area. The tuition is a little steep and classes were definitely a challenge, but the staff really works with you to help you succeed.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Morrill Hall is definitely the nicest (not the biggest, but the nicest) but Clement Hall or Massey Hall will give you the shortest walking distances to class (unless you're going to be on the Ag campus, in which case you'll want Morrill or Carrick). Don't be too proud to ask for help- college classes are an adjustment no matter how diligent and intelligent you are, and it's better to get help from the start rather than scrambling at the end of the semester.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

The University of Tennessee is on the fast track to be a top school in the nation, so as a result, those professors mean business. They're not over-the-top or anything, but the classes (in general) are challenging. Compared to high school, college classes are definitely more demanding because there are fewer opportunities to earn grades, and you have to motivate yourself to do it all. Overall, nothing you can't handle as long as you understand some work is involved.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

Honestly not bad. It's a college dorm, so it's not going to be 5-star luxury, but as far as dorms go I think UTK has some of the nicest options.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

It's dorm food. It's going to suck. But there are plenty of options so you can switch things up and usually find something that isn't too cafeteria-like. Just go easy on the Dining Dollars- make sure you ration them out.

What’s there to do for fun at your college?

Anything and everything. There's more sporting events than you'll know what to do with, and they're all fun to go to because the school spirit is through the roof. There are lots of concerts that come through, many even on campus in Thompson-Boling Arena. There are two malls nearby (driving) and every kind of restaurant you can think of (at least 20 within walking distance). Market Square and World's Fair Park are two things every UT student MUST experience. And there are countless parks and stuff nearby for the outdoorsy people.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

It's expensive, no doubt. But the education you get combined with all the social opportunities is simply a steal. Plus they are constantly working to make the campus and classes better, so you see your money being put to good use, not just spent on staff salaries.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Well there's a big rock (aptly named The Rock) that students paint to announce everything from football games to wedding proposals.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Everyone. The campus is the perfect mix of city (it's downtown) and country (you're in the Appalachian Mountains so some good open greenery is never far away). There are some easier majors but also plenty of challenging ones with plenty of research/internship opportunities.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

There are more clubs and groups than you'll know what to do with. Definitely something for everybody. Academic, college-specific (Nursing vs. Engineering, etc.), political, fine arts, and of course tail-gating are just a few options.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

Greek life is huge at UTK, but you don't have to join to have a social life like at some other SEC schools.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

Certain areas near campus can be rough, but nothing too scary. You're in the downtown area of a major city, so all things considered it's pretty safe. Just use your common sense! A free night shuttle is included in your tuition, so make use of that! Just call them up and they'll be by in minutes to take you where you need to go so you never have to go out alone at night,