Rochester Rules!

Introduction
After visiting 22 different colleges, I stepped onto the U of Rochester campus and knew I belonged here. I chose this school for its uniqueness. It is a University that is focused on research, but all of its students are part of a College of Arts and Science as well. In addition, the school pretty much allows you to take the courses you would like. This allows for great academic freedoms and tremendous research oppurtunities available from the University. If you are a Science scholar, this school is perfect for you. If you are a Humanities student, once again, you'll love it here. But I will caution you: if you are NOT a hard worker, either reform your study methods or don't bother coming.

Campus Life and Social Life
The U of R has many clubs and sports. You will never get bored on campus. On the weekends, the party scene is very apparent: a lot of people go to the frats. At the same time, there are many programs offered by the University for people who prefer not to party, like trips to the local bowling alley.

There are also many buses to take students around the city and its suburbs (which feature a mall, movie theater, and shopping center) for free. The bus into the city brings you to the Eastman School of Music, a college within U of R. The city also offers many art galleries, museums, and coffee shops in which to socialize. Overall, the social aspect on campus is very positive. Students that party or like to be quiet will find balance on campus. Advertisement
Academics
The academics on campus are exceptional. The school is a haven for pre-Meds and its excellent Science program reflects this. The Chemistry, Biology, and Physics departments are very good. Professors are very helpful and know what they are doing. Because the school has a Sciencey reputation, they've worked very hard and invested a lot of money in the humanities program, which has made it great. Professors are approachable: you can have a discussion with them either on the topic of what you're learning in class or about life in general. TA's for the most part are very helpful.

Student Body
It is hard to describe the typical student but they tend to be friendly and hardworking. Many students are from the surrounding area, the Southern Tier of NY state, Long Island, Fairfield County (Connecticut), Westchester County (New York) and the Albany area. Obviously, there are also many students from all over the country, but most are local. Students are typically involved in a few clubs, have a good group of friends and work hard academically.

In Closing...
This is a great school to go to for almost any profession. Just remember that the winters tend to be cold (even though this winter was warm) and the academics are challenging, though reasonable. Professors and faculty are always very helpful when problems arise. The campus is extremely beautiful physically, too. Check it out!