<p>My D chose ND over UVA last year. Tough decision since both are great schools.</p>
<p>She also did not want Greek life or dressing up for football games or a party school. I think she would have done well at UVA but the spirit at ND is unbelievable. </p>
<p>Her classes are small and she loves the professors. She is always doing some sport or going to a concert. The dorms sponsor their own charity events and formals. </p>
<p>Here is something that we did not expect – whenever any of us in the family wear ND gear, we are stopped. The guy at my bank high-fived me when I was setting up her bank account. I have an ND decal on my car and someone honked at me at stoplight the other day. I rolled down my window worried I had a flat tire or something and the other driver yelled “Go Irish!” She interviewed recently for a summer job and the manager wanted to hear about the school. The name seems to open doors.</p>
<p>The biggest negative of ND is location. It’s an 11 hr drive for us. My D has taken coach bus (sponsored by local ND club) and Amtrak. Flights are easier but expensive. It’s also cold, but I’m sure you’ve heard that. Lots of snow this year and some rain/hail.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>