James Madison University

I LOVE james madison!
the campus is gorgeous, there are always clubs and/or organization trying to get you involved, the food is great, the parties are so much fun (there are plenty of fun things to do at night if you aren't into the party scene), and you will always find a friend. the academics are challenging, and the professors always have office hours and most are even willing to meet with you outside of those hours.

YES- you will get a professor every now and then that sucks (every university has them).
YES- we have really cold winters (it's great if you love snow).
YES- jmu isn't for everyone (but a lot of people love it).~i'm not trying to sway you either way. the only thing i can honestly tell you is: COME VISIT US! the early fall and the spring are the best times weather-wise :)

1st Year Female -- Class 2010

Individual Value: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B

1st Year Female -- Class 2010

Individual Value: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B

I chose JMU because of its ISAT program. I initially chose Virginia Tech because of its engineering program, however, I didn't know if that was exactly what I wanted to do. So I went with ISAT. In all, I am very pleased with my education. Currently I'm working on my masters in mechanical engineering (at another school, JMU doesn't offer this, if they did, I would have stayed). Even though I did end up choosing engineering, I am still happy that I chose JMU.

As for the atmosphere, I loved it. As others have said, the surrounding city isn't the most exciting. Yes, partying/drinking appears to be a big part of the social scene here, but it is not limited to these things. There are an absurd amount of clubs to join that can keep anyone busy in whatever they want. Also, the campus is in the middle of a beautiful valley which is host to endless outdoors activities. There is no reason to not have anything to do.

The academics are great also. Like anything, you get out what you put in. ISAT was very demanding and has prepared me well for my graduate education. The business school is ranked 35 in the nation by Business Week Magazine and we have several other leading programs such as SMAD. In all this is a great school and I wouldn't go anywhere else if I had to do it again. Go Dukes!

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000