Academics
University of Alabama—Tuscaloosa is an institution where “students reach their full potential and accomplish their dreams.” Undergrads here are drawn to the school’s rich history, beautiful campus and wide range of challenging academic programs. A major benefit is the fact that “there’s a lot of funding for scholarships…[as well as] research and facilities.” As with any large university, students are likely to encounter a range of professors, but for the most part, Alabama undergrads enjoy their time in the classroom. They report that the majority of their teachers are “caring,” “engaging,” and “highly intelligent.” Professors hail “from a myriad of backgrounds, and a lot are here to carry on research that they are interested in.” Fortunately, “their passion drives classes and make learning very interesting and fun.” Even better, “they are willing to help you if you need it and sincerely want you to succeed.” Standout programs include business, communication studies, engineering, and nursing. The honors college offers “smaller class sizes and more theory-based assignments.”
Student Body
Over the past few years, University of Alabama has done a great job of attracting large numbers of out-of-state students. As such, undergrads here report “the culture is definitely shifting from ultra-conservative to more progressive.” “School spirit permeates every aspect of campus and student life” and we’re assured that “all students bond over the love of the Tide no matter what differences they may have in passions, interests, or politics.” And just as important, regardless of a student’s hometown, we’re told that “Southern hospitality” shines through. Hence it’s not surprising that many students describe their peers as “friendly,” “polite,” “warm, and inclusive.” The vast majority promise that there’s “something here for everyone, and there are people on campus that fill every academic and social niche imaginable.” As one content student conveniently sums up, “There are the students who are here just for football and partying; there are students here strictly for academics; and there are students…that will be with you at 2:00 a.m. in the library or at 2:00 a.m. in a frat house.”
Campus Life
Life at UA is active: “there are over 400 clubs and organizations to fill your time here.” Crimson Tide football is dominant; “Tailgating before games and then going out to party after games is common.” Beyond football, “intramural sports are popular [as is] going to the rec centers to exercise” Greek life is popular and a big part of the social scene. “Fraternities and sororities have swaps on Thursday nights. Friday nights the fraternities have band parties or DJ’s come in.” The university sponsors plenty of alternative options as well. Undergrads can attend “concerts and fairs,” “movie nights,” “book clubs,” and cultural events like the “Japanese festival.” And when students want to take a breather from campus life, they can easily head to “Riverwalk, a walking trail close to campus that goes along the Black Warrior River.” Moreover, hometown Tuscaloosa “has more restaurants than you could try in four years so we go out to eat a lot.” Finally, if undergrads want to further explore the surrounding area, “Birmingham [is only] 50 minutes away.”
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