My Review of Brandeis University

It's really hard to know where to begin when attempting to write an objective review about a college that you love. However, I believe that I am in a position where I know enough different kinds of people and am involved in enough different activities to do just that! : ) For the sake of clarity, I am going to write this review in bulleted form, outlining some of the highlights and downfalls of some of the many elements that make up Brandeis University.

1.Academics

Bottom line- the academics are exceptional. Brandeis is extremely strong in all fields, and has exceptionally good graduate school acception rates for those applying to law and med schools. As at any college or university, there are going to be bad teachers, and you are not going to love every teacher you have. However, I promise that if you are looking for a school where you will have the ability to learn a lot in a very nurturing and dynamic academic environment, you will love Brandeis.

2. People

At Brandeis you will run into all sorts of different people, most of whom will be Jewish. Some groups that stand out particularly include those who are very socially awkward and spend the majority of their time doing work, those who try extra hard to fit in by joining a frat/sorority, those who care an awful lot about international politics (specifically genocide), and those who manage to have a good time while maintaining a decent social status. In the end, it seems as though most people find a group of five of six friends that they really enjoy being with, and spend the majority of their time hanging out with those people. It is important to note that the majority of the people on campus do seem to be content with these social circles, despite the generally small size of the social circle as well as the lack diversity within the circle...

3. Campus

The best adjective I can think of to summarize this campus is "interesting." Basically, there is a lot of pavement, and a lot of large brick buildings. The Castle and the Shapiro Campus Center are definitely the campus' two big highlights. However, if you take the time to explore the Brandeis campus, you quickly realize that it is filled with many beautiful places. If you ever happen to visit, make sure you check out the view of Boston located behind the Castle. Also, if you're up for an adventure, take a climb up to the water tower after the leaves are gone. I promise that you will not be disappointed with the view : )

4. Fun : )

The college books are not lying when they say that the Brandeis experience is really what you make of it. I would say about 25% of the Brandeis population does not set foot outside of their dorm buildings during the weekend. If you are looking to have a bit of college fun there is the occasional decent frat party. Also, once in a while Student Union plans a fun campus wide activity (such as Springfest : ) However, you will find that your best times at Brandeis are those where you plan your own "adventures" with your close friends. The best advice I can give to anyone who is thinking about attending this school is be ready to make your own fun on the majority of the weekends : )