Small/Big School Atmosphere?

<p>I do not know too much about Northwestern, but it appeals to me because it is a Big 10 school, yet only has an undergrad population of about 8k. I am not basing my college decisions at all on athletics, but would it be accurate to say that Northwestern has all of the things - school spirit, parties, etc. - that go along with large state schools? Is there also a smaller school feeling that is more commonly seen in smaller private colleges? I am looking for a school that will combine these traits with very strong academics. Could NU be the place for me? If not, any reccomendations?</p>

<p>Hey! I've only been here a week, but I think the atmosphere is great. I've never had trouble finding fun or parties, and there is a real community spirit here. (Next week's football game vs. Penn State will be PACKED.) Plus, things like Residential Colleges (I'm in Willard) and even my school (I'n in SESP which is very small) add new levels of community. You get to meet a lot of new people and branch out into different circles this way. It's lots of fun.</p>

<p>I have a definite interst in journalism, so I would be applying to either Medill or the CAS. What type of community spirit have you experienced? I go to a small high school (180 in my class), and have participated in a number of small, intimate summer programs, I have found that I enjoy myself most and make my closest friends in this type of situation. Does NU sound like a good fit? I'm interested to hear from graduates, freshmen, and especially juniors and seniors.</p>

<p>I, like dfleish, have only been here for a week. Also like dfleish, I live in Willard (best dorm ever!). I think Northwestern is the perfect balance between a smaller school with a strong community and a bigger school with all the events. There is an endless amount to do here. On campus there are tons of (fantastic) shows and things to be involved in as well as many parties. Off campus there is, obviously, Chicago (and Evanston is fun too). I feel a strong sense of community here. One thing that surprises me is how frequently you run into people you know as you walk around campus. You can definitely find whatever scene you want here, and make the school whatever you want it to be. It's an amazing place, and I highly recommend it.</p>

<p>Willard really is effing amazing. (It's totally a cult, btw.)</p>

<p>willard's not a cult. you wanna know a cult, FUP is a cult. I live in 3rd Allison btw</p>

<p>Yeah, it is. So is SESP. And Willard. NU cults are awesome.</p>

<p>haha nice screenname, TuckerMaxJr</p>

<p>anyway, i'm pretty set on applying ED to NU, and your criteria sound just like mine: smaller school feel in a not necesarily smaller school. plus, i'm from buckeye country, so a fall without football would be strange for me.</p>

<p>"willard's not a cult. you wanna know a cult, FUP is a cult. I live in 3rd Allison btw"</p>

<p>-FUP '08 baby!!!</p>

<p>haha that's right fup love
FUP '09</p>