Virginia Commonwealth University

I think the thing about VCU is that it is whatever you want it to be. Everything at this school is in YOUR hands. You are in charge of your education. This isn't a daycare center, this is a place you go to learn and if you're not going to put 100% effort you will struggle and you will absolutely hate it here. I guarantee you that. I came in as a transfer student expecting to have the same success I always had and had quite a shock by struggling to manage C's and barely pass classes in my first semester. I'm put work on hold and have now stepped up to the plate and accepted the academic challenges VCU is going to offer me and I am happier than ever and learning so much. This school is preparing you for real life career experience. Someone isn't going to hold your hand, it's up to you. For any prospective Biology majors, I can tell you right now be ready for a challenge. There is no such thing as an easy biology class here and organic chemistry will weed most majors out. If you're pre-med then I suggest you really be prepared. It is so competitive here and I mean that. Many classes required can kill your GPA and once you get that mark on there your chances of getting into med school are almost gone. So be sure you are up for it. Honestly I've come to love VCU now. I've still got a love-hate relationship with Richmond, but I'm overall happy with my choice to come here. I'm a senior now and have been job-hunting for the past year and a half. I've got a good idea of what I will be doing thanks to VCU and the people here who have helped me. It's a big school, but you can make it home. Apply yourself, have the drive, and know what career you are going to pursue and stop at nothing until you reach that goal. It's worth mentioning VCU has one of the worst graduation rates in the state. Many will come here but not many will leave with a degree unless you put the work in. I can't stress that enough. Don't come here just because you want to slack off and not put in an effort because VCU isn't UV.a. or Virginia Tech. Oh and don't bother coming here if you're looking for a party life because there isn't much unless you've got connections or are in a frat/sorority. One more thing, Richmond is not some crime ridden hell hole. It's a city, yes and you have to be alert. But it's rare something will ever happen to you here. Especially on the VCU campus. I've never had any trouble and I don't know anyone who has. That's all I've got to say I suppose. We'd love to have you here! But know what you're getting into.

2nd Year Male -- Class 2016

Innovation: A+, Useful Schoolwork: C

Like any other college, you experience here will be what you decide to make of it. The University however definitely does its part in fostering an environment where you will have the opportunity to make the most of your college years. VCU is the biggest college in VA and my favorite part of my undergrad years there was the true diversity of its student body. At this school you get a college experience without being in some protected fantasy world behind brick walls. The campus sprouts up seamlessly with the city and you are more in touch with "the real world." There are students of literally every type and interest...from art/music students, the premeds, international students and frat/sorority types...the rich and the poor. That is probably the University's best aspect....true diversity not just numbers to fulfill "quotas". Also, the school is building brand new facilities that should make the engineering and business/advertising schools very competitive really soon. Plus the beautiful James river flowing right through downtown Richmond isn't a bad perk either. I loved my time at this school and wouldn't trade it for anything. I am now in Med school pursuing an MD/PhD. GO RAMS!

4th Year Male -- Class 2006

Education Quality: A+, Individual Value: A

I like VCU a lot now. I've been here three years and it's really grown on me. It's a real misfit college, don't come here if you're looking for your typical college students...although there are plenty of prepies, stoners, hippies, etc. It's also come up in the world a lot in the past few years, especially considering it's located in the heart of what used to be the murder capital of the country. I really feel like I got a quality education here and a good amount of experience with real people. I would recommend VCU as a university to come to.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2004

Education Quality: A+, Campus Aesthetics: C+