Academics
One student reports that West Virginia University boasts “a relaxed, social, and extremely school-spirited environment,” and that WVU's academics “challenge students in the classroom” and prepare them “to be successful in the next step of life after college.” Another student praises the engineering program, which offers “many opportunities for seniors looking for jobs. I also like the fact that it is a big university, but being in Morgantown gives it a homey feel.” Students find a happy medium that combines studying and socializing. “The school is all about connecting academics and leadership with incredible enthusiasm for school activities.” “A wonderful experience with a good balance of academics and fun opportunities.” “Great academic experience wrapped up in a fun college atmosphere.” For in-state undergraduates, affordability is the key to choosing WVU. Many students are drawn to the “diversity of programs” offered at West Virginia University. With this variety of programs comes a “diversified faculty who bring a wide range of knowledge and experiences.” Some students would prefer smaller classes because, as one student put it, “The large classes make it difficult to form solid teacher-student relationships.” But another student offers a different perspective, “If you put forth any type of effort, you’ll get to know your professors at WVU. Of course, with some of the bigger classes, you can sit in the back and go unnoticed, but that’s a personal choice.”
Student Body
Students describe themselves as “outgoing” as well as “relaxed and social.” School spirit is evident. “The typical student always has some piece of WVU apparel on, and that’s usually sweatpants.” “Students are very involved on campus with academics and various clubs and organizations. It is a very lively campus and there is always something going on. Although one student reports, “A lot of people here drink quite often,” students also say that there is plenty to do on campus that doesn't include alcohol.
Campus Life
There is no escaping the “pride” West Virginia University students feel for their school, many of whom say they were “born to be a Mountaineer.” Whether it’s describing their majors, the marching band, alumni, or the football and basketball teams, it seems unanimous that the “spirit of the university is outstanding.” As one student states, “West Virginia University is all about combining such high academic standards with the atmosphere of Mountaineer pride, only something you can feel at a football game singing ‘Country Roads’ with 50,000 of your closest friends.” “Fun” seems to best describe student life at WVU. Whether on campus at the “amazing student recreational center,” which is “complete with weight room, indoor swimming pool, hot tubs, indoor track, indoor basketball and racquetball courts, ping-pong tables, and boxing equipment,” at the Mountainlair student union watching free movies, or off campus exploring Morgantown, everyone seems to be having a good time. “One of the best things about Morgantown is downtown High Street. People always ask, ‘you goin downtown tonight?’” This is referring to the very wide selection of bars, clubs, lounges, and restaurants that are located downtown, most concentrated along High Street. High Street starts at the south end of downtown and travels all the way up through the downtown campus. Some students would like to see an improvement in both parking and transportation, but the beauty of the area and the level of student assistance “outside the classroom with learning centers, free tutors, [and] group work areas” all get high marks.
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