I’ve gotten into all three and am not sure which to go to. I’m from Richmond so that’s a little off-putting for UR. However, I know UR is the hardest to get into of the three, and therefore, has the most prestige. But besides ratings, I’d love to hear opinions on the college experiences. For example, the social scenes (I’m not a big partier), general atmosphere, success of graduates, pros/cons of the different sizes, etc. And do rankings of undergraduate school matter that much- for jobs and grad school? I’m planning on going to all three again before my decision. Thank you!!
All three are excellent schools. UR would be your most prestigious obviously. I’m from Richmond so I understand how close UR is lol. What do you want to major in? I had one brother go to Richmond and he majored in chemistry. Loved it there. I had another brother go to VT. He was a chemical engineering major. Social scene- I mean, there will be parties everywhere. Greek Life is at all 3 of those schools. It definitely has a higher presence at JMU and VT because they are bigger. I think 30% of UR’s student body is involved in greek life. All graduates are successful. They are all wonderful schools. Pros and cons, well VT and JMU are a lot bigger. They have more to offer residence life, club, food wise, etc. Also have more programs than UR since it is LAC. JMU has nursing, VT has engineering, etc. Biggest pro to UR is the guaranteed $4000 of research funding/study abroad money you get and you have way smaller classes. Professors know your name and you get that 1-on-1 experience. You really won’t get that at VT/JMU in most of your classes, definitely not your gen-eds. They all have sporting events and campus spirit. Biggest differences are size. Also, UR is near the city of Richmond. While Blacksburg and Harrisonburg both have plenty of stuff around them, they definitely aren’t big cities like Richmond.
Thank you so much! I’m still undecided but considering pre-vet or business. I know tech would be great for pre-vet but if I did vet school there, I’d be in Blacksburg for 8 years, which could get boring haha
No problem! Well, Richmond has a GREAT business school! You do have to apply for admission your sophmore year but as long as you have a 2.7 GPA (I think it is) and met the pre-reqs you’ll get in. I know UR has a good Pre-Med advising program, but I’m sure they’d be good for pre-vet too. Its not that much different. A lot of the same classes and such!