The Real U

Introduction
You have to be willing to accept other cultures. If you are close-minded and upper-class white snobs, you will absolutely find your place here. BUT, if you feel uncomfortable around people who aren't going to this school simply because they want to skip class and go to the beach, UM isn't for you either. I chose this school based on the rigorous academics. I am a transfer student, so when I was deciding where to start over, I looked at academics FIRST. Where I was last year was challenging, but was not a great academic push. If I'm going to pay so much for my education (which you will do at UM), I want to gain as much good experience as I possibly can.

Campus Life and Social Life
While parties aren't really my thing, I do know that there is a good amount of off-campus social life. On campus there are many non-alcoholic friendly activities. Coconut Grove is a good place for shopping, restaurants, clubs and other nightlife. The sports are a big deal here, and even when we lose there is a good chance you will see a good turn out at the games. Academics
Many people come to UM for the marine biology/marine affairs programs. I'm in the psychology department, and while this might seem like a major you can go to school for anywhere, it is still a really respected and well-developed program. There are so many research opportunities and the every faculty member I've had has been very well-versed in their specialization and have made my classes fun. They make it a point to get to know the 90 students names. My roommate is in the Elementary Ed program, and I have never seen her do any work. The most she has had to do is read a children's book and then write a lesson plan. Not that education isn't a great major, I just don't see very much academic work going into it. The physics department faculty I've heard sucks, but most other sciences do very well. There is A LOT of work to be done. The general requirements can seem to be a bit much at times, but I know that I am getting a more well-rounded education because of them. The communication and business schools are among the top in the nation, and with the recent implement of the required double major in the comm. school, students get to explore majors like advertising and psychology or business management and communication studies. Both the architecture school and engineering school I feel are underrepresented. Both have 5 year programs, and the engineering school actually offers what is called the Dean's promise. If you are unhappy with your job after graduation or cannot find a job, the dean of engineering will pay for your first semester of graduate school. Interestingly enough, no one has ever taken him up on his offer.

Student Body
See above!

In Closing...
If you can appreciate the beautiful weather, possibly tolerate not being close to home, and aren't afraid of a little hurricane, UM could be the school for you.