Yes, I learned a great deal while attending UAF. Sadly, I really only got into the swing of things in my last couple years. This is not to say that I slacked off during the first years, I merely mean that I did not start directing my own education and owning the school until the end. All of the professors I had were very willing to help me, but I had to put forth the effort to ask for guidance in shaping my education. Because of the small size of this school, it is very possible to interact with professors and perform research in their labs...if you ask and let them know.
Did enjoy being here
It was difficult at first. Mostly, the only thing that ever stopped me from having a truly terrific time was my own attitude. When one realizes just how amazing it is to be in such an environment, a lot of the BS drops away. I, and anyone attending any college, is an incredibly fortunate individual. I never felt entitled to it which helped me enjoy the school, the people and the harsh environment (on a side note, the summers are beyond compare).
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Considering that students pay out-of-state tuition here and it can be cheaper than in-state tuition at home, I would say the school is affordable. Not all of the classes are perfect, not all of the professors are mind-blowing deities, but if that is what one expects from another person they will always be disappointed. I did not have any professor that was bad. Most researching professors are extremely interested in helping students get involved in research. Also, I really enjoy that three years after a class, a professor I had and didn't really interact with an exceptional amount remembered me, my name and was interested in my progress and goals (and how they had changed).
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
Look at the accreditation, if the school isn't accredited in the program you want, it's not for you. The winters can be harsh, stay active; go hiking, camping, ice climbing, to the gym or pool. Take one recreation class a semester, college should be fun. Get adequate sleep, studies show it improves performance and efficiency. Find something constructive you can do that makes you happy, I enjoyed gourmet cooking, breakdancing (a class is offered and should be taken), slacklining (court 3 has posts for it), and snowshoe running. Realize that you determine your education, its quality and its value. If things get overwhelming, step back, give yourself a day or two of f*ckits and get back to it. Finally, if a university isn't for you, look at other options.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Research-oriented. Winter enthusiasts. Students that like small college towns. Self-directed.
Yes, I learned a great deal while attending UAF. Sadly, I really only got into the swing of things in my last couple years. This is not to say that I slacked off during the first years, I merely mean that I did not start directing my own education and owning the school until the end. All of the professors I had were very willing to help me, but I had to put forth the effort to ask for guidance in shaping my education. Because of the small size of this school, it is very possible to interact with professors and perform research in their labs...if you ask and let them know.
It was difficult at first. Mostly, the only thing that ever stopped me from having a truly terrific time was my own attitude. When one realizes just how amazing it is to be in such an environment, a lot of the BS drops away. I, and anyone attending any college, is an incredibly fortunate individual. I never felt entitled to it which helped me enjoy the school, the people and the harsh environment (on a side note, the summers are beyond compare).
Considering that students pay out-of-state tuition here and it can be cheaper than in-state tuition at home, I would say the school is affordable. Not all of the classes are perfect, not all of the professors are mind-blowing deities, but if that is what one expects from another person they will always be disappointed. I did not have any professor that was bad. Most researching professors are extremely interested in helping students get involved in research. Also, I really enjoy that three years after a class, a professor I had and didn't really interact with an exceptional amount remembered me, my name and was interested in my progress and goals (and how they had changed).
Look at the accreditation, if the school isn't accredited in the program you want, it's not for you. The winters can be harsh, stay active; go hiking, camping, ice climbing, to the gym or pool. Take one recreation class a semester, college should be fun. Get adequate sleep, studies show it improves performance and efficiency. Find something constructive you can do that makes you happy, I enjoyed gourmet cooking, breakdancing (a class is offered and should be taken), slacklining (court 3 has posts for it), and snowshoe running. Realize that you determine your education, its quality and its value. If things get overwhelming, step back, give yourself a day or two of f*ckits and get back to it. Finally, if a university isn't for you, look at other options.
Research-oriented. Winter enthusiasts. Students that like small college towns. Self-directed.