The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Being an out-of-state student, I sometimes felt unwanted; however, the feeling waned as the year progressed. Still, many in state students seem to have a quiet resentment of the out-of-state students. The first year academics were not as challenging as I had expected, but the courseload ended up being appropriate, allowing time to enjoy the abounding social life. Although the frat life and "trendiness" could sometimes feel overwhelming, I was able to find a nitch because there is such an erray of people-jocks, preps, pit hippies, and every other categorie one can imagine- who generally mingle with no reservation. Overall, my experience was good. I met wonderful people and look forard to next year.

1st Year Female -- Class 2008

Social Life: A+, Innovation: C-

I honestly have mixed feelings about Chapel Hill and the University. I like it- most of the time. I do not love it like some people. Chapel Hill is a typical college town. It is really expensive to live here and to survive- food,clothing, etc. I do not think that the school is cheap- tuition went up significantly while I was here and now it is espensive in my opinion! I think the town is a little too laid back. Most places do not open up on Saturday until 10am. I realize most college student's aren't up- but some of us are. If you really want to experience Chapel Hill the town, take summer school- it is much nicer and quieter then when fewer people are here.

I think the quality of education is OK but could be better. Some professors are great and others are too concerned with conducting research so they can obtain tenure or advance their careers. I have also had good and bad TA's- some truly care and know what they are doing and others do not. It was my experience that I didn't recieve a great deal of personal attention until I entered a professional school (probably the same when arts and science students take a great deal of classes from their departments). I have also had classes as large as 600 and as small as 3 students. I think the best thing that UNC offers is its services. I have had great experiences with Unviersity Career Services, Student Health, UNC Libraries, computer labs, and other campus offerings. Although things have improved since I was a feshman, some classrooms did not have heat or air not to mention the dorms- of which only some have air conditioning. I feel that the school cares more about spending money on athletics than for the students. Furthermore, there is no parking for Chapel Hill students- and I blame the univeristy! I think they would rather build "useless" buildings instead of building parking decks. I, as do most conservative students, feel that the univeristy has a liberal agenda. It is not unusual to have mostly liberal professors, commencement speakers, and other political people around campus. To those of you not from NC, this is the most liberal city in the state. (However for you die hard liberals it may not be liberal enough for your liking) SO if you are conservative, be prepared to see and hear things that will probably shock and annoy you. In addition, your opinion will not be valued unless it is of a liberal persuasion- so much for freedom of speech! I hope this will change in the future.

This is definately a Greek school, however, other clubs are avaliable too. Active night life Thurs-Sat. I would not recommend living on campus if you are a serious student. It is too loud and NO ONE enforces the rules. I also lived at Granville Towers- it is not great either. I suggest living off campus.

It is my opinion that the current Chancellor is not well liked by students but is well liked by faculty. He not only promotes the liberal agenda but he also is promoting a program called Carolina First. This program is trying to raise money to make Carolina the best public university. I have news for him-it will take more than money to make Carolina the best public university I think Carolina does not have the reputation it once had - partly because of this chancellor and his spending habits as well as his lack of concern for students.I liked Carolina- and I would go here again- but I think I would have been better suited for Wake Forest or Duke.

4th Year Female -- Class 2004

Campus Aesthetics: A, Useful Schoolwork: B-

When I reflect on my UNC experience I kind of romanticize the place. I went through the ups and downs. Utilmately, I appreciate the experience and opportunity to go there. I am a under-represented minority whom didn't have good educational opportunities prior to attending college. So going to a place like UNC was a tall order. I had a lot of failures, but eventually I had a lot of victories as well. It can really take an emotional toll on you if you aren't strong. You have to remain optimistic and believe in yourself. I'm going to professional school now. If someone told me this while I was struggling through pre-med courses, then I would have called them a liar. Since, I was almost kicked out for poor grades. I wasn't partying or playing around. I just didn't get it. It can happen if you're aren't prepared for UNC. You have to be extremely realistic about your goals. The programs there are not best for everyone. If you're a person that comes from a poor educational background or typical disadvantaged minority, then I think you should consider how prepared you are for UNC. The decision is up to each individual. However, I strongly believe that going to a HBCU or smaller liberal arts school is best for those that need a more gradual transition to college academics. It's hard to resist the Carolina charm. So here is my advice. If you attend don't over extend yourself. Take small class loads in the beginning. Don't load up on major courses or 4 credit hour courses just because there's a suggested pattern. Take "weed out" courses somewhere else if necessary to keep your grades up. Practice good time management and study skills. Listen through the grapevine about professors. Sometimes it's good info, sometimes it's just a lazy student complaining. Join a club and meet people to help alleviate the rigor of school. Lastly, never give up. UNC is easy for some, but for others it's quite a battle that is gratifying once it's over.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000