My DD has narrowed her college list down to UNC and a well regarded LAC. She’s really struggling with this final decision for a lot of reasons. One issue she and I have struggled with is UNC student and alumni perceptions. It seems that current students and alumni have a very strong “we’re the best” attitude that is a little off putting. Pride in your school is great, but sometimes it seems to extend to the point that folks question why you would go to any other college (maybe short of an Ivy) when you were accepted at UNC. Maybe I’m just reading too much into a few isolated incidents, but it seems pretty consistent. Can any current students or alumni comment on my perception? Am I off base? One of her concerns is that she won’t be “the best” kid at UNC and won’t be able to compete for some of the more competitive internships, research opportunities, and leadership positions.
“Won’t be the Best…” will most likely happen to 99.9% of the people-that shouldn’t be a significant factor. Yes, we got the same impression, too, but then, we went right after they won the basket ball thing last year. Another thing we found odd was how hard they were trying to sell themselves as the fun, party school. But, all things said, UNC is in-state, the best college in-state, and the courses they offer through Honors are very attractive. A lot depends on your work-ethic and attitude- it is possible to not get sucked into what has to be a fringe issue.
My daughter loves UNC and could not picture herself anyplace else… she does not have the “ we are the best” attitude… at all.
I won’t lie … leadership positions can be competitive, but internships and research positions are not difficult to come by for those who pursue them.
As for being a party school… it’s not. Yes there are parties… but they are generally off campus and easy to avoid. There are many who don’t party at all.
My daughter loves UNC and could not picture herself anyplace else… she does not have the “ we are the best” attitude… at all.
I won’t lie … leadership positions can be competitive, but internships and research positions are not difficult to come by for those who pursue them.
As for being a party school… it’s not. Yes there are parties… but they are generally off campus and easy to avoid. There are many who don’t party at all.