The University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

UNC's reputation is outstanding although A's are hard to come by. If you want to go to a grad school, go to an easier school for undergrad.

1st Year Male -- Class 2011

Education Quality: A+, Faculty Accessibility: C-

So far, Carolina has been everything I looked for in a university and more. I believe wholeheartedly that your college experience is what you make of it. Yes, UNC is large. Yes, if you let yourself, you can get lost in the crowd. But UNC prides itself on having something for EVERYONE. If you're super-serious about academics, Carolina can challenge you. Some courses are labeled "honors" courses for those who wish to challenge themselves academically. Students can also participate in research. If you're interested in getting involved in the community, Carolina can provide you with opportunities to do so. Study abroad? UNC has one of the top study abroad programs in the nation. And yes, as a Carolina student you can have an excellent social life, as well. Join a sorority, like I did. Join a fraternity. Many sororities and fraternities on campus don't fit the "Greek" stereotype. Typically students view sororities and fraternities as ongoing parties... and the members as air-headed snobs... I'm not going to lie, many of those assumptions are true. But probably 90% of the Greek organizations on campus are not like that AT ALL. They participate in service, leadership, and often raise money for their philanthropy. If you're not interested in sporting Greek letters, join a club. College Republicans, Young Democrats, Black Student Movement... There are hundreds to choose from, and if there's not one for you, make your own. (I think I heard that some students created a Pirate Club a few years ago? Wild!) So you're a huge sports fanatic? Carolina is PERFECT for you. Granted, I am a little biased, but Carolina athletics are a huge part of the UNC experience. Basketball, football, lacrosse, baseball, swimming, soccer... there are sporting events to attend during all parts of the school year. And you can even participate in sports. So you're into sports but aren't well enough to play on the varsity team? Join the club team. Or play intermurals. There are plenty of intermural sports... from indoor soccer to scavenger hunting... from basketball to innertube water polo (I kid you not!). I think the reason a select few students end up unhappy at UNC is because they don't go out and get what they want. Carolina provides its students with opportunities to do WHATEVER they please... but they're not going to shove it in the students' faces. They know the students are smarter than that and have the ability to pursue what they wish without being spoonfed... and THAT is why Carolina is "The University of the People."

1st Year Female -- Class 2009

Extracurricular Activities: A+, Scholastic Success: B

UNC was extremely difficult for me academically. However I still managed to graduate with a 3.0, and considering the fact that I was a journalism major, that is damn good. The J-School is very exclusive and expects a lot from the students. Honestly, I felt discouraged by the school's expectations, as I never seemed to be able to meet them. But now that I am out in the real world, I kind of see the point of being so tough on the students.

I will say that I was not a study nut, and I had quite an active social life. Had I spent all my time studying, maybe I would have made straight A's, but that is not what college is all about.

The students are incredibly diverse, especially for the South. You will find everything from hippies to preppies to jockies, which I think makes UNC a great place to go to college. There is always some kind of controversy going on. I formed all of my current political opinions at UNC. I went to UNC very narrow-minded, and left a liberal (much to the disappointment of my parents). I now live in Wyoming and was able to get a great apartment in Jackson Hole because the landlord is an alum. I cover education in Teton County, and a UNC alum is a board member. You find UNC alums everywhere you go, and they are always willing to help you get your foot in the door. That is something Harvard and Duke can't boast.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000