University of Virginia-Main Campus

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA, USA
Public
4 Year

Kelly's Review

Review of University of Virginia-Main Campus

from Poquoson, VA

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

The University offers a wide variety of course-work and majors. I am often overwhelmed (in a very good way) by the courses being offered each semester and am faced with a tough decision when it comes to choosing which ones to take. The professors are great and are always available to listen during their office hours. Every professor I've had has shown great enthusiasm for their subject and great care for their students' well-being. Also, there is a very wide variety of clubs to join. I've been able to learn so much about different service organizations and get involved not only in the Charlottesville community but also the world. There are also tons of other fun clubs that offer new hobbies. I personally joined Baking Club and Salsa Club. Learning new, fun and relaxing things while making friends is one of the best parts of UVA.

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

Chalottesville is absolutely amazing. I love how I always feel completely safe walking around Grounds at any time of the day. Also, there is always something to do. Whether it be taking the trolley to the Downtown Mall or the bus to Barracks (another shopping center) or just walking down The Corner to get a bagel at Bodo's, my friends and I never feel bored while at The University. The Grounds are beautiful, and I also feel like UVA is just the right size. I am able to see people I've never met before each day, but I also always run into a friend. It's a tight-knit community of like-minded people who want to do well and have goals but also want to enjoy themselves. It's really nice to be surrounded by that balance. Lastly (and most importantly) UVA has a wonderful community and system of trust. The Honor Code at The University keeps order and makes everyone living within the community feel safe and able to trust their peers at all times. UVA is absolutely wonderful and I cannot picture myself anywhere else.

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

The one and only problem I have with UVA is that I feel like as a first year I paid entirely too much for my meal plan. UVA's dining facilities are nice and the food is quite good, but I did not agree with the price of the meal plan (it comes out to about 8 dollars a meal). There wasn't a problem until I visited friends at other schools and realized that they were only paying about 4-5 dollars per meal. Other than that, I think that for the amazing quality of education received, facilities and wonderful programs, UVA is quite the bargain. I definitely agree with what some say about The University: Public tuition for private education.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

One thing that prospective students should do is definitely visit all of the schools that they are applying to and never base your opinion of a school off of stereotypes and what they hear from other people. I had my heart set on going to another school from the 4th grade all the way through the first semester of my senior year of high school. I actually almost refused to even visit UVA. However, my mom made me visit and I took the opportunity to stay overnight to sort of see what it was like to live there, and I fell in love. I would say to definitely take advantage of any over-night stays or programs being offered at prospective schools. Make sure to ask lots of questions on tours and sit in on a couple of classes and talk to professors if you can.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

UVA is great for anybody, I believe. There are so many great things offered by The University, and I have not met a single person while here who doesn't absolutely love it.