<p>You should visit MCLA. My impression of MCLA is va positive one. I like the core curriculum because it has a practical contemporary approach; that is, it's not only centered on Plato and the history of Western Civilization, if you know what I mean. The Biology Department seems to to be solid if not spectacular. And I have met MCLA students at College Fairs who are enthusiastic about the place, but of course, they would be. But if you're sour on the location [Western Massachusetts], then you wouldn't be happy anyway. But go see for yourself.</p>
<p>UMass-Dartmouth is a good alternative to the Amherst campus. Lots of majors. Good in the natural sciences. Aesthetically, students' opinion of the campus is a matter of personal taste. It's best described as 'severe concrete.'</p>
<p>Do not overlook Worcester State College. The advantage of WSC is its membership in the Worcester Consortium of colleges (i.e. cross-registration). There has been recent construction on the WSC campus, bringing new dorms etc.</p>
<p>I know Umass Amherst has a distinguished history dep. ,but its just to big for me! Any other tibits on massachusetts public colleges and universities?</p>
<p>My daughter attends Umass Lowell and when we were looking it seemed like a good fit. This year there have been some stabbings on campus, two jumpers off the bridge, a drug overdose and a guy trying to videotape girls showering. I regret that we chose this school. I feel that the Univ. has not taken enough action or has communicated with the students about these tragedies. The education is so so. The food terrible. My daughter however refuses to consider transferring. She has made some good friends that she feels loyal to. I feel we are not getting our moneys worth. Another school we were considering was UMas Dartmouth and I felt the education was better there and the campus seemed better. I have a younger daughter that will be graduating soon and we are looking at private colleges hoping to get a good fin aid package.</p>