<p>I learned today that I was accepted by the University of Virginia! I'm a first generation college student from Indiana, and am pretty new to the whole decision process. UVA is the second school I've been accepted to, along with IU Bloomington. I'm still awaiting decisions from USC, Columbia, and Penn.</p>
<p>My family is pretty limited financially so we likely won't get to visit the campus before making a decision. I've done research about the university online but am looking for some deeper insight as to what draws people to UVA. I really like history and politics, but I'm also considering a business major. How does UVA fare in these departments? What are some of the benefits of the school and what do you current students/families like most about it? </p>
<p>I just visited. It is by far the best place I’ve visited. The people are so nice and the grounds are absolutely gorgeous. I would honestly choose UVa over any Ivy. The academics are strong, financial aid is great, and the people are still overwhelmingly friendly and humble.</p>
<p>Congratulations! The campus is beautiful and students are pretty smart! If you intend to do your undergrad business degree McIntire School of Commerce is one of the best in the country. The climate is pretty manageable, unlike some of the colleges in the Northeast. Overall, you are likely to enjoy your undergrad experience at UVA. </p>
<p>Columbia and Penn have their own attractions too! I wouldn’t compare:)</p>
<p>Cville is a great town in a beautiful area. As noted above, the Commerce School (business major) is top notch. However, it is competitive to be admitted. You apply during your second year. I believe something like 2/3rds of students are admitted. Many people who don’t make into the Comm School become econ majors. Anyone can take the first three or four commerce school classes.</p>
<p>UVa’s history and politics depts. have always been great.</p>
<p>Appreciate the responses! I’m also a big fan of sports so rooting for a team in the ACC would definitely be a plus. I’m glad to know UVA is such a friendly environment.</p>
<p>UVa has really upgraded athletic facilities for football, basketball, lacrosse, soccer and softball. My son plays for a travelling Rugby Club, which he loves. You can also take two physical ed classes for credit in the College of Arts of Sciences.</p>
<p>First off, CONGRATS! I’m a current first-year at UVA and I remember clearly how stressful the college app process was last year. Now to your questions, the commerce school is amazing, but you have to apply. As for history and politics, UVA has already had top-notch programs in each as well. I took an international politics course last semester and it was honestly mind-blowing to me how much passion the students, the professor and the T.A. have for the subject area.</p>
<p>In terms of benefits of the school, there are so many. There are obviously many benefits to USC, Colombia and Penn as well though. My brother actually goes to Penn, so I know a lot about his experience there compared to mine here, and while they’ve both been amazing, they’re very different. In my opinion, besides the obvious differences, the biggest difference I’ve seen is UVA is in the ACC. While this may seem insignificant, it’s not. It makes a difference at all sporting events and the kind of school spirit we have here. Everyone is proud to be a wahoo, and there is a huge sense of camaraderie. Making the choice to come here was the hardest decision of my life, and one that to be honest, wasn’t easy and wasn’t ideal for reasons that were out of my hands. But coming here has been hands down the best decision of my life, which i know is a big statement to make.</p>