The University of Mary Washington

UMW gets a back rep from those who aren't familiar with the school and even from some students who have attended. What I have found to be true is that most people who complain about life at UMW aren't people you'd want to be around regardless.These people complain that the social life is weak because UMW isn't a "party" school, but let me tell you, I went there for 5 years, got two degrees, made the best friends of all time, and partied my fucking ass off. And the campus is gorgeous too.

4th Year Female -- Class 2013

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Innovation: B-

4th Year Male -- Class 2012

Scholastic Success: A+, University Resource Use/ spending: B-

Mary Washington is a wonderful university. The community of Mary Wash is both inviting and helpful, and its easy to make friends and join clubs because everyone is welcoming. The school work is a lot tougher than the admittion rate would lead you to believe, and there is barely any busy work. I always feel that the work I do a the university is setting me up for success. The teachers here are almost always available to you, and genuinely want you to succeed. They are available for help, and if you decide to try hard at Mary Washington, there is no reason that you won't do well. Going to Mary Washington is one of the best decisions I've ever made. I met great people, and I feel accepted by my friends and professors. There are some things that people believe are issues, but I don't see them as much of a problem. I guess you can decide for yourself. First, the social night life is kind of dim. There aren't parties every night, and there aren't a bunch of activities to run and join. I suggest if you want to have the most fun at nights at UMW, make some great friends. That's where all the fun is. People at Mary Washington make their own fun. Also, there is almost no school spirit, especially when it comes to sport events. But, I'm okay with that. And I'd go to a game every now and then, but I don't go consistanly, and I don't know any one who does. A lot of people I know love being here at UMW, but they don't always show it. Lastly, there is no Greek life. I am 100% okay with this, and its partially why I came here. The school is so small that if we were big into greek life, the student population might become cliquey and that would lead to less friendly, and inviting students. There are some fraternities and sororities that you could join off campus, but they aren't too big, and I barely hear about them. A lot of the reviews on here seem negative, and I would hope that incoming students will take everyone else's views with a grain of salt, and make sure that they think about what they would like from their college experience. UMW is pretty unique, and as long as you are ready to be surrounded by nice people who take their school, and school work seriously, then Mary Wash would be the place for you!

1st Year Female -- Class 2017

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Education Quality: F