Visit Report by briantheman (Member since May 23 2007 with 180 posts) Visit Date - March 2007
Visit to Vanderbilt University in March 2007 by briantheman (Student, HS Class of 2007)
Visit Activities:
Information Session:
Yes - Very well done. One of the few schools that spent more time on actual substantial information than pure sales gimmicks. 9/10. Campus Tour:
Yes - Nearly every school I visited felt completely "phony" as my good friend Holden Caulfield might say. The guides spoke as if they had memorized a script. This tour was...real. AMAZING campus! Classroom Visit:
Yes - I sat in on a philosophy seminar course. I had been studying similar material in a high school course at the time and was therefore able to contribute to the discussion. Very good fun!
Vanderbilt University Campus:
Friendliness/Courtesy of Students: 5 - Excellent -
If you want to even give the Ivies a real shot, visit them first. Do it the other way around and you'll feel miserable during the Northeast visits. People are almost TOO nice.
Friendliness/Courtesy of Staff: 5 - Excellent -
My decision came down to LAC vs. Major Research University. From what I've seen, the professors at Vandy are equally if not more courteous than those of the LACs despite the huge research output.
Appearance of Campus: 5 - Excellent -
The fact that it is a national arboretum should be enough to convince you that it's outstanding. I happened to visit on a rainy day, yet it still blew me away. Try that on for size.
Building/Facilities Maintenance/Cleanliness: 5 - Excellent -
Students first. A "motto" that is actually taken to heart at Vandy.
Dormitories: 5 - Excellent -
Unfortunately, I didn't have time to do an overnight in the dorms. I did, however, have the chance to look at each. They're superb.
Security/Safety: 4 - Very Good -
The Honor Code has a huge prominence. The school is in fact in a major U.S. city, but in the "better" area. Provided you don't run around ask to be killed, you should be good.
Overall Campus Impression: 5 - Excellent -
The visit made my decision. I completely fell in love with the school and cannot wait until I am actually on campus as a student.
Off-Campus:
Area Immediately Around Campus: 5 - Excellent -
The full scale reconstruction of the Parthenon in Centennial Park just a small walk away is absolutely terrific. The restaurants and shops nearby just add to the flavor.
City/Town/Community: 5 - Excellent -
Nashville lives up to its reputation. There was a huge festival going in throughout the downtown streets during my visit. I of course grabbed the signature hat.
Campus Visit Notes for Vanderbilt University:
Visit Description:
My list of schools wasn't huge. I had narrowed down my choices to places at which I could actually see myself. Prior to my visits they all stood an equal chance of ending up as my new home. Vanderbilt completely sold me. You'll find more well-rounded and unique individuals (t)here than in almost any place on Earth. The students have a balance to their/(our, soon!) lives that you'll find evident in the unofficial student motto, "Work hard, Play hard". There's no point in mentioning the academic prestige. I would hope that you're well aware of it by now if you're even considering Vandy. Make your decision based on the life you'll find there. If that ends up being a primary factor, it's game over.
Hotel/Lodging Recommendations or Comments:
There are hotels all over the place. Just be sure to book in advance and search for the better deals.
Dining/Restaurant Recommendations or Comments:
Ask around! You'll be amazed at the enthusiasm in the answers. Definitely check out the local places.
Other Comments (Transportation, local attractions, parking, etc.):
Go for a tour. Visit the Belmont Mansion. Go downtown. The list is nearly infinite.
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If you want to even give the Ivies a real shot, visit them first. Do it the other way around and you'll feel miserable during the Northeast visits. People are almost TOO nice.
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The Honor Code has a huge prominence. The school is in fact in a major U.S. city, but in the "better" area. Provided you don't run around ask to be killed, you should be good.