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Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh, PA

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Carnegie Mellon University Reviews

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  • 09/05/2009

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    36 out of 36 people found this review useful. 1 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Intelligent, hardworking, team players, creative, logical, good-natured
    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to work hard, and you will learn more than you thought you could.
    Bang for the buck

    The average carnegie mellon graduate gets a lot of money per year, and has better opportunities for advancement than the average. This college will pay for itself if you put your effort in.
    Am enjoying being here

    I really fit in, and everyone here seems to be very intelligent and good-natured. Everything administratively, from housing to course design, just seems to make sense.
    Am learning a lot

    The amount of things you learn throughout your classes is amazing to me. Just this past 2 weeks, I've learned so many things about programming that it has made a noticeable change in how I approach problems.
  • 12/24/2009

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    27 out of 27 people found this review useful. 2 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    CMU is a place for nerds and artists who have a great passion for innovation.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be a serious student. You should have a strong academic record, leadership skills, and evidence that you are interested in the major you plan to pursue (ie - If you like business, have you done any internships in high school? If you are into computers, have you taken computer science and/or high level math courses?) At the same time, be well-rounded. Show that you have interests outside the classroom!
    Bang for the buck

    While it is an expensive institution to attend, the prestige and reputation hold true. CMU provides a strong background in any field, but it also provides a variety of diversity and experience that are invaluable and certainly prepare for life after college.
    Am enjoying being here

    Even though CMU has a reputation for all work and no play, there is surprisingly always something to do, both academically and socially. In the classroom, many professors are casual and approachable. Outside the classroom, there are many organizations, sports teams, dance troupes, concerts, musicals, and other social events at which to meet people...and that's just on campus! The city of Pittsburgh also has much to offer, including shopping, the arts, and food!
    Am learning a lot

    I am a freshman, so a lot of my courses are introductory and relate to courses I took in high school (ie - biology) and I am therefore familiar with the material. But I have learned a lot more detail, especially in my science courses.
  • 12/09/2009

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    17 out of 17 people found this review useful. 3 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    If your a fan of people who really love to learn a lot but who may not necessarily be the most involved in sports, then this is the place for you.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure that if you have any problems with procrastination like I did when I was first starting out, that you get over them fast!
    Bang for the buck

    This can always be up for debate. Although the cost is very high, the experience is priceless.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love it here. The people are a lot friendlier than they were back home. They know how to have a good time but, they also n=know how to get down to business when it gets down to it.
    Am learning a lot

    It seems as if though I am learning in a day what I once learned in a week while in high school. I am not only learning a lot about my major but, also about street smarts as well as other fields. Everyone is so knowledgeable and it doesn't take long to get a question answered.
  • 10/25/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    9 out of 9 people found this review useful. 4 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Students who can either plan projects out and get them done in small chunks, or students who can pull all-nighters and still turn out good work. While when I was researching this college I saw that a lot of people said there were no parties on campus, that is a complete lie. So if you like to party you should be able to get your work done also. You can't skate through Carnegie Mellon.
    Tips for prospective students

    I would put a lot of work into the essays you have to write to get in here because they count for a lot. Also try to be doing sports or drama or some sort of extra curricular. Carnegie Mellon is really hard to get into, but it is worth it. I wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
    Bang for the buck

    Carnegie Mellon University is insanely expensive, but the amount of learning that goes on in one week shows why it is so expensive. They are kind of random when it comes to giving out scholarships so even if you really deserve a large financial package, you might not get it. However students earn inordinate sums of money after graduating so it is worth your while.
    Am enjoying being here

    The people at CMU are really nice and there are just so many types. Of course there are the nerds, but there are also the drama kids and the partiers and people who are just normal. Everyone is there because they deserve to be there and it can create fascinating discussions.
    Am learning a lot

    There isn't wasted time in class and the teachers are always using the basic physics and chemistry we are learning to explain much more complicated ideas such as how to find galaxies in the universe and why scientists know that dark matter has to exist. Each class is fascinating to be in.
  • 12/12/2010

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    9 out of 9 people found this review useful. 5 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    If you're passionate about what you do so much that you consider yourself a nerd in your major, come here, you will be in good company!
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid to show the quirky, fun side of yourself too when you're applying. Carnegie Mellon is full of wacky people and the admissions office likes to see that in the prospective students.
    Bang for the buck

    It is true that Carnegie Mellon doesn't have the most amazing financial aid services, but the education that you are receiving here is definitely worth it. Also, you would definitely enjoy being a part of the great history and fun family that is CMU.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love it here at Carnegie Mellon. It is an awesome environment for many reasons. Most top-notch schools are specialized in only science and technology or only arts, but CMU has it all and because of that, you are surrounded by students who are passionate and smart in all kinds of fields, which often leads to interesting encounters between majors. Also, you get free bus transportation and free admission to local museums and other things to do, so there is always something fun to do in the great city of Pittsburgh!
    Am learning a lot

    You definitely get a great education at CMU. The professors are masters in their fields of study, but they still care a lot about the students. For example, my physics professor told us he wouldn't be in class the next day because he would be in Washington, DC helping solve the oil spill crisis in the Gulf. However, he always has office hours and encourages the students to take advantage of all the academic services offered.
  • 11/19/2011

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    3 out of 3 people found this review useful. 6 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Techies, artsies, musicians and all around solid students.
    Tips for prospective students

    CMU offers no merit aid so be prepared to dig deep if your parents earn over $100K. It's hard to believe with a school that has an endowment valued at almost $1B.
    Bang for the buck

    Hard to say as 4 years will set you back $250K...add another $60K for architecture school.
    Will enjoy being here

    Pittsburgh is a great town and the campus is easily accessible to some great communities.
    Will learn a lot

    I'm sure you will as it's a world class school.
  • 01/08/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    3 out of 5 people found this review useful. 7 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Bang for the buck

    Major drawbacks: * CMU costs over $50k a year. * Dining is disgusting. * Campus Wi-Fi network is a joke. * Lots of stinkbugs.
    What to do for fun

    University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) parties aren't too bad, the Steam Tunnels can be fun to explore a couple times, Schenley Park is pretty nice, and of course there's the tried and true hanging out with friends. Other than that, Pittsburgh isn't exactly an exciting place to be.
    Food and Dining

    CMU dining is something taken out of a horror film. Carnegie Mellon does not seem to care, and actually makes the meal plan mandatory freshman year.
    Dorm Life

    Nothing notable about the dorms. Most are co-ed and in okay condition.
    Academic Rigor

    CMU is certainly rigorous. Prepare to work a lot.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you're into CS or technology and didn't get into any other top school, you could do worse than CMU (after all, we are ranked #1 in CS -- above MIT / Stanford / UC Berkely with alphabetic sorting taken into account). As far as employment goals, most students here are interested in Google/Facebook (and a lot of them do go on to work at such companies), but if you look in the right places you can find a bit of interest in entrepreneurship.
    In three sentences

    Computer Science and drama are top notch, and the hard sciences are good. Everything else academic is either propped up by those, or about what you'd expect from any liberal arts college. Outside of academics, CMU very clearly cuts a lot of corners to maintain its CS primacy with such limited endowment.
  • 07/08/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 8 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    hardworking, ambitious, quirky
    Tips for prospective students

    My CMU pre-college RA told me that CMU harbors really strange but awesomely unique people. So my advice would to be yourself even if you're strange. The CMU admission process really does try to get to know your quirks because they believe those are your strengths as a person.
    Bang for the buck

    In general I think all universities charge way too much money for education. It especially bothers me that they waste my tuition money paying for the immense energy costs when they never even try to turn off the lights at night or during the breaks. Oh and those new plasma screen tvs that they use to show signs that could have just been on a piece of paper. Despite that, I'm still here because I trust that I will receive the best education here.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love that it has a small campus feel yet it is right next to Pittsburgh. When I'm not slaving away in studio, which isn't very often, my friends and I love to take the bus and enjoy what Pittsburgh has to offer. I only wish that CMU had better dorms, not that I spend much time sleeping.
    Am learning a lot

    I'm an architecture student--by now you're thinking oh man she probably doesn't leave the studio--so I definitely am learning more than I thought I could. The cool thing is I get to learn through hands-on projects that prepare for the stresses of becoming an architect.
  • 07/21/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 3 people found this review useful. 9 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    people that want to study and live their major. You develop into the professional that you are presently studying.
    Tips for prospective students

    be prepared to work long difficult hours and to excel in your major! You work hard and you learn to succeed.
    Am enjoying being here

    great small city; living in a PA Soho with culture and sophistication within reach
  • 08/08/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 10 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Hardworking, motivated, eager students. A lot of times Carnegie Mellon is characterized as a nerdy school or great for geeks but what it really is is a community that has a shared passion for learning and knowledge, and out of that passion comes a lot of great accomplishments, inventions, and other advances. So I'd say that Carnegie Mellon is great for anyone with a passion for learning.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come in with an open mind - not only are you going to meet a ton of new people that way but you will also benefit more from taking all kinds of different classes and you will learn a lot more than you maybe expect to. And you'll be surprised at how much you can learn not only from classes but also just from all of the amazing people around you. Also, don't be afraid to be yourself, Carnegie Mellon is a really accepting school and there really is something for everyone here. But don't forget to come prepared - you will work hard at this school, but that just means that you'll be able to get a lot more out of your education.
    Bang for the buck

    Carnegie Mellon is a little bit on the expensive side, but one major benefit to that is we, even as undergraduates, get to partake in and perform so much research. It really feels like if there's a will, there's a way with research here.
    Am enjoying being here

    One thing I looked for as I was doing my college visits was the elusive fit - does this school feel right for me? And I have to say that I feel that I can be so much myself here, there is such a diverse group of people that anyone can fit in. And while we do have a lot of work, there are also so many activities and clubs to be a part of that you will never not have something exciting to do and be a part of. Also, since Carnegie Mellon isn't too big of a school, it really does feel like a comfortable community once you start getting to know people.
    Am learning a lot

    At Carnegie Mellon you take many different and diverse courses which really pushes and encourages you to learn not just about your major but also get a truly well-rounded education. Further, by taking so many courses you really get to explore a lot of different fields while being in college and focusing on one or a few (Carnegie Mellon does a really good job of combining fields of studies which fosters all kinds of innovation). And in each course, professors are extremely knowledgeable and successful but are still down-to-earth and will go out of their way to make themselves available to help you succeed and learn as well.
  • 11/15/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 11 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    You have to be prepared for a hard curriculum. You also have to want to do well, and you will. However kids who do more than just academics are the ones who truly thrive here.
    Tips for prospective students

    Obviously keep your grades up. Carnegie Mellon loves to see kids who are well-rounded (computer science majors who are musically inclined, etc.) so make sue you have a wide range of activities.
    Bang for the buck

    This school knows how to get you a job. The teachers know their stuff. There are resources everywhere to make sure that you are doing well in school. The career center is great! The tutoring is also very useful, and almost everyone takes advantage of Academic Development.
    Am enjoying being here

    Despite what some people say, this school can have fun. There's plenty of activities and clubs to get involved with. There's an active and very fun Greek life. You can find your perfect niche anywhere.
    Am learning a lot

    This school is all about its academics. Everyone you meet here are really focused on doing well in their classes and getting the met out of their education.
  • 12/29/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 4 people found this review useful. 2 people found it offensive. 1 person found this inaccurate. 12 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Students who want to learn.
    Tips for prospective students

    It's a tough school and the girls are ugly. If you want to work and learn it is a good school. Partying here is hard. You have to travel to other colleges in Pittsburgh, so you will miss out on some college experiences. Sports are not big here
  • 01/08/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 13 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Clubs and Activities

    Anything you wish to participate in will be here
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Painting the fence, rolling chair races, Kiltie band
    Food and Dining

    Food plans are very limited, but the food itself is not too bad.
    Dorm Life

    The majority of dorms are very nice, and they provide many opportunities to meet new people.
    Tips for prospective students

    Find the perfect balance between school work and extracurriculars- don't risk your grade, but make sure you're enjoying yourself!
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon is an amazing university and provides endless opportunities to its students. The experiences one will find here as a first year are incredible and I would never trade this year for anything. Everything from the people to the majors to the clubs are so diverse that no matter who you are, you can most definitely find your place here.
  • 04/10/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    2 out of 2 people found this review useful. 14 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    The University of Pittsburgh campus is right next door, so with both police forces, there are few crimes.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are tons of clubs offered and if one doesn't exist, it's extremely easy to create one.
    Great for these types of students

    People who care about their education, nerds, geeks, musicians, artists,
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There is a fence on campus that different organizations paint between the hours of 12am and 6am. It works as a great advertisement for clubs and organizations.
    Bang for the buck

    Carnegie Mellon is very expensive. The school does however offer good financial aid, and can often bring down the price to meet other colleges.
    What to do for fun

    Carnegie Mellon is right next to the City of Pittsburgh, and with a free bus pass included in your ID, it's easy to get around the city. Every weekend there are cheap movies played in an auditorium. There are also many clubs that meet to do fun activities during the week.
    Food and Dining

    The freshman meal plan is required. There are multiple dining options and they serve a decent amount of food. The freshman meal plan is slightly overpriced, so after freshman year you should just use cash and eat at all the great locations in Pittsburgh. Each dorm, as well as each apartment room, has a kitchen.
    Dorm Life

    I am very good friends with everyone on my floor. The lounges are pretty large and most students spend their time outside of their rooms.
    Academic Rigor

    Carnegie Mellon is known for being academically rigorous. It was even featured on The Simpson's for it's toughness. That being said, there is a lot of help available to all students. Upperclassmen are very willing to help, as well as Teachers who hold multiple office hours and answer emails quickly.
    Tips for prospective students

    While GPA and SATs are extremely important, colleges look for students who will add to their campus. What extra-curriculars do you do? Do you play a musical instrument? Sports? Do you lead a club? Do you volunteer? These are things that colleges want to see.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon University is ranked as one of the top universities in the nation. It's a small research university that gives the feel of a secluded campus while being in the city of Pittsburgh. It is very easy to get involved in clubs and organizations on campus.
  • 12/30/2011

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 15 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Those interested in Technological Fields (Computer Science, Engineering, Robotics.)
    Tips for prospective students

    Talk to everyone and take advantage of their knowledge. Don't feel intimidated by the intellect of your peers, but rather learn form what they have to offer! Know that you will spend most of your time working and studying, but the end result is worth it.
    Bang for the buck

    Our tuition is a hefty price tag, but doing things like living off campus and cooking for yourself can greatly reduce the cost. Additionally, CMU actually offers very generous need-based grants, so you never know exactly how much you'll end up paying until you sit down and work closely with a financial aid officer. I'm paying less than I would at a state school in CA as a resident, which is amazing and a serious blessing. The people you will connect with and the supportive network of professors, instructors, and professionals is very much worth the money spent.
    Am enjoying being here

    The city and campus environments are great and the students are social but with a focus on academics. You'll find many great minds and great conversation!
    Am learning a lot

    CMU is academically rigorous, and somewhat open to interdisciplinary study. If you want to supplement what you're learning in your major, it's likely there is room in your schedule or a unique opportunity for pursuing your broad academic interests.
  • 01/17/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 16 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Our school band is known as the Kiltie Band because they wear kilts. We have Spring Carnival, which is awesome and has too much going on to write everything here!! There is also The Fence, which you should just visit campus to learn more about.
    What to do for fun

    Almost anything you want to do you can do on campus, in the city, or somewhere nearby.
    Food and Dining

    Like any campus, the food gets old after a while even with a good variety.
    Academic Rigor

    Depending on your major you will have some tough times, but it will be worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you have the opportunity to visit, do it. If you can, try to also participate in a Sleeping Bag Weekend so you can stay with a current student and attend some classes to get more of the real CMU experience.
    In three sentences

    I have never regretted my decision to come here, despite it being a highly challenging school. Carnegie Mellon is a great university for a number of fields of study, especially engineering. Pittsburgh is also a great city to be in!
  • 02/21/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 17 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    the police are watching you.
    Greek Life

    quite a few frats and sororities.
    Clubs and Activities

    lots of clubs and activities.
    Bang for the buck

    you will probably get a job with your degree.
    What to do for fun

    study.
    Food and Dining

    lots of options, standard pricing, pretty good food.
    Dorm Life

    dorms are good.
    Academic Rigor

    you learn an incredible amount, but it can be stressful.
    Tips for prospective students

    get in the habit of working 12+ hours a day.
    In three sentences

    it's a good school. you learn the material incredibly well. however, it's quite rigorous and can be extremely challenging.
  • 05/23/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 18 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Bang for the buck

    Expensive, but the education and prestige is worth every penny.
    What to do for fun

    Go around Pittsburgh - Oakland, Squirrel Hill, South Side, Downtown, ...
    Food and Dining

    The food is good to start with, but after a while you get tired of it.
    Dorm Life

    If you don't put your deposit in early for freshman year you probably will not get the best of dorms.
    Academic Rigor

    Many of the classes are extremely tough with papers, homework, and midterms but thats why you go to CMU.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be ready to work, but also be able to manage your time to allow for a social life.
    In three sentences

    I am currently a student at CMU and I just finished my first year and it was great. This school is great for people of all majors and who are willing to be challenged academically. The campus may not be as big as one of a typical university, but the students and faculty you will meet are amazing as well as diverse and there is so much going on around you.
  • 06/28/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 19 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Super safe. Guards and policemen 24/7. There's also a emergency medical service team responding 24/7 as well.
    Greek Life

    Big on campus, but not the typical Greek life seen on movies. It's more nerdy...
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a variety but it's hard to start a club. CMU is really stingy in funding.
    Great for these types of students

    hardworking, know what they are doing, ready for the real stuff.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    We have the fence. It's a property owned by students. We get to paint it. People usually use it to promote their events/ organizations. On 911, people have a little thing going.
    Bang for the buck

    well, if you are not aware yet. basically all CMU colleges are on like the top 20 of most $$ earning colleges/ departments list
    What to do for fun

    Nearby neighborhoods are reachable by walk! if not take the bus and everywhere else is close too.
    Food and Dining

    Other than the fact that most food here is greasy, it's pretty good actually. We don't have cafeterias, instead we have like restaurants.
    Dorm Life

    It's pretty good. Freshmen year, RA coordinated a snowboarding trip. Besides Pittsburgh in general has a lot to do if you really want to.
    Academic Rigor

    Just like our motto says, my hear is in the work, CMU is the place to work.
    Tips for prospective students

    Plan out your schedule aka future plan ahead of time if you know what you want to do, because that'll save you a lot of time. If you don't know what you want to do, that's fine too, but you might just end up feeling like you wasted a semester or two.
    In three sentences

    This school is good for you if 1) you are ready to work 2) you want to meet someone rich in the future 3) you want to be successful in the future.
  • 10/28/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    1 out of 1 people found this review useful. 20 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus is very safe, with low burglary numbers and even fewer assaults. The off-campus area around Shadyside and Oakland get a bit more dicey, but there are still few incidents.
    Greek Life

    Greek Life is different from most campuses - frat parties are not crazy blow-outs, and we even have one dry frat on campus. Sororities are a big commitment of time, and require a long formal initiation process, but become very tight sisterhoods with huge pride. All the Greek houses get together to do a show called Greek Sing every year, putting on parodies of popular musicals in a competition show.
    Clubs and Activities

    You can find a little bit of anything here (just ask the CMU Bronies group that started this year). Especially popular are the social group KGB, the theatre group Scotch'n'Soda, and service and program groups like SIFE and TEDxCMU.
    Great for these types of students

    Committed, energetic, intelligent, focused
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Fence gets painted for large campus events, but only between 12am-6am, and must be guarded at all times. Campus groups vie for control of the Fence when they have a big event coming up. Also, Carnival is a 4-day spring festival with no classes, where the Greeks and other organizations build large carnival booths on a theme with artwork and games, and large music groups and comedians are brought in. The highlight event is Buggy, where teams that have built aerodynamic bullet-looking vehicles housing a small girl driver are pushed in a footrace around campus.
    Bang for the buck

    You're getting a lot of education jammed into 4 years. Be ready for it.
    What to do for fun

    Pittsburgh has a great sports scene, with the University of Pittsburgh right next door, and a thriving arts scene both within the University (come see a stunning Drama show or watch a virtuoso play in the historic Kresge Auditorium) and downtown. Bar life is fairly tame when you get older, but there are sufficient hangouts. No real campus bar.
    Food and Dining

    Operated by Culinart, the food options are okay, if not great. Rather than a central cafeteria, the campus eateries are separate themed stalls around campus, all selling ala carte. This is great variety, until you consider eating at the same 14 restaurants for your entire 4 years. Menus do not change.
    Dorm Life

    Dorms are average, and the dorm experience is what you put into it. I was never around my freshman dorm, and moved into an apartment as soon as I could. That said, there are some nice upperclassmen options. As a freshman, I'd go for the Prime housing if you can afford it - they seem to build a better community than do the Standards.
    Academic Rigor

    The campus is hopping from about 8am - 2am with students everywhere, and I have often seen students still in the library even when all the campus coffeeshops have closed. Academics are really king here, and you have to know going in that because everyone wants to learn, they're willing to put in the time to get the work done.
    Tips for prospective students

    Know what you want for a degree, and know what you want out of it. The Undecided major really doesn't exist around here. But if you can show how interested you are in the program and your enthusiasm for learning, that gets chosen far more often than how much you've done in high school.
    In three sentences

    A jam-packed, fast-and-furious four years. All programs are very passionate about what they do and their students show it through a commitment to a fairly rigorous courseload. Definitely time to get the well-rounded college experience, though.
  • 01/03/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    0 out of 3 people found this review useful. 21 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Weird
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure that CMU is really where you want to be. If not, you won't be motivated to do the work.
  • 02/23/2012

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 22 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    the campus is extremely (almost scarily) safe, with the exception of a few robberies down the street in central oakland. the shadyside/squirrel hill area of pittsburgh where cmu is located is very upper-class and safe.
    Greek Life

    greek life is pretty good from what i've heard, and there are a lot of diverse frats and sororities.
    Clubs and Activities

    cmu has basically everything you could ever want; the problem is finding the time to fit things in.
    Great for these types of students

    it's great for people who don't value having an extensive social life, who prefer not to go out on weekends, who don't drink, prefer not to party, and for anyone seeking a degree in computer science, engineering or the arts.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    our campus has a large asian population, so if you are asian or enjoy asian traditions, you're in luck! there are a lot of opportunities to be on asian-inspired dance teams and be in asian culture clubs. one positive aspect of cmu is their ethnically diverse population.
    Bang for the buck

    overall, if you go to cmu, you're basically guaranteed to get a good job (especially if you work hard and make connections). but i didn't enjoy myself at all and most of my friends and peers also didn't like it but just stayed for the prestige. if you have any desire to have fun, remember there are other good universities that offer comparable educations and opportunities to pursue a social life.
    What to do for fun

    there isn't a whole lot. i tried doing some extracurricular things, but i found that with academics and maintaining a job, it was way too much. if you don't work, there are lots of opportunities to get involved, especially with the arts and sports. they also do offer a lot of fun exercise classes and good fitness facilities. as far as social life, there are a few fraternities and sororities, and there are some parties, but they're not very fun and very hard to get into unless you know the right people. if you like to dance or party on days other than the weekends, you'll have to go off-campus. also, cmu is trying to get rid of the frats and sororities, so good luck.
    Food and Dining

    the food is terrible for the most part. if you are unhealthy and omnivorous, it's not too terribly bad, but if you try at all to maintain a healthy diet (or just like to eat food that hasn't been drenched in grease), cmu dining isn't for you, and it's way overpriced. and forget it if you're vegan.
    Dorm Life

    dorm life is just like any other school, although the ra's tend to baby their students and set some policies that are a bit too strict.
    Academic Rigor

    i'd give it five stars, maybe six; they push their students a little too hard in order to compete with ivy leagues.
    Tips for prospective students

    only go here if you plan on focusing every facet of your being on your education. most people i know who go here don't like it but stick it out because it's a good school.
    In three sentences

    carnegie mellon was not at all what i expected. while i knew it would be rigorous, i didn't know that the environment was so unfriendly, competitive and demeaning. carnegie mellon made me dislike learning, which i have always loved, though i must say i learned a lot.
  • 03/03/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    0 out of 1 people found this review useful. 23 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    cmu has its own police force and shuttle escort service. if a crime that involves a student takes place, the cmu police will email everyone with tips on how to be safe on campus or in the city of pittsburgh.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are lots of clubs for students to choose from here.
    Great for these types of students

    very smart and academically inclined.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    cmu has what is called the fence. student organizations will paint the fence with whatever colors they choose to give a message to the rest of the university. they then sleep overnight in a tent next to the fence to make sure that the fence isn't vandalized by competing groups.
    Bang for the buck

    i am a phd student, and my tuition has been paid by the university or outside organization in the past, so i am unable to answer this question.
    What to do for fun

    every spring term, cmu has their annual buggy race where students design and race inside these little buggies.
    Food and Dining

    i live off campus and bring my own food, so i can't give an objective rating. however, there are plenty of places to eat on and off campus.
    Dorm Life

    i don't live in the dorms, so i wouldn't know.
    Academic Rigor

    the professors here are experts in their fields, and they expect a lot out of their students. i think this is a great thing.
    Tips for prospective students

    expect to spend many hours studying hard, as cmu is known for tough academics.
    In three sentences

    the professors here value learning and are very helpful in helping students achieve their goals. there are also graduate student teaching assistants willing to help their fellow students. cmu is also on the leading edge of computer technology.
  • 03/08/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    24 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    workload is challenging. that said, there is a reward in the end - a lot of respect from the professional community.
    In three sentences

    cmu is a great technical institution. rather than having expertise in each and every field, cmu chooses to lead research in a chosen number of fields. a great place for those looking for a science, engineering, or economics exposure.
  • 04/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    25 of 48

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    If you have no work, there is a ok party scene if you know where to look. You gotta be proactive, the party does not come to you here
    Food and Dining

    Average
    Dorm Life

    Its ok, second year move off campus. If you join a greek organization, you can move into the house your freshman year if there is space
    Academic Rigor

    Extremely hard. Expect to study and work like you never have before. Its all worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Join a fraternity, its not the frat bro scene, since the school is so hard. Its just an extra method of support to get you through CMU.
    In three sentences

    A very different college experience, filled with moments of hardship and very long nights, but also satisfaction. Everyone here is passionate about what they do, and seeing this in in people's work so often is one of the best things about being here.
  • 05/30/2012

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    26 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Greek Life

    Dying out.
    Clubs and Activities

    Club variety is unlimited. However Division 3 sports, and thus little attention to sports here.
    Bang for the buck

    Expensive. But if you do the work, you will get a higher paying job than any other schools.
  • 05/31/2012

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    27 of 48

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Go out to Pittsburg or watch a Steelers game at the stadium.
    Tips for prospective students

    They love interesting and unique students so show that side of you, because everyone has one.
    In three sentences

    Very different from any other college. The students aren't all nerds. Very academically driven.
  • 06/07/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    28 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    I think the campus is very safe. I've never felt in danger in anyway and have never had any bad experiences regarding safety.
    Greek Life

    I wasn't apart of any Greek organization so I'm not sure.
    Clubs and Activities

    I think that there are clubs/activities for everyone on campus. If there isn't I'm sure it wouldn't be too hard to start.
    Great for these types of students

    Carnegie Mellon is great for students who enjoy diversity, who don't mind working hard, and who aren't afraid of trying new and unusual things.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    I would say our most unusual tradition is the fence. You will find out it's history when you visit, but basically it's this big fence like in the center of the campus that groups/organizations gain control of in order to paint messages on it. The group always has to have two or more people guarding the fence or else another group can come and take it. Also the fence has to be painted in it's entirety by hand paintbrushes and only after 12 am or else it's considered vandalism. If given the chance, I would definitely recommend painting the fence.
    Bang for the buck

    Carnegie Mellon is more expensive than other schools, but I think that it pays off with all that they offer you.
    What to do for fun

    The events on campus are really fun like the A'capella concerts, fashion shows and the dance shows. There is also a game room that has pool, shuffleboard, DDR and other games. If none of that floats your boat, you can always explore off campus. Pittsburgh has a lot of interesting restaurants to try.Two favorite destinations for CMU students are the Waterfront, which has a lot of shopping and an AMC movie theater, and South Side Waterworks, which has many restaurants and a movie theater that has specials and low prices for students.
    Food and Dining

    The food is pretty good and there is a lot of variety. You can also use your dine-x to get some off campus food.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are nice and most have facilities like workout rooms and printing stations. The best place to live as a Freshman is The Residence on Fifth, if you don't mind a walk.
    Academic Rigor

    The work is pretty hard, but doable. It's possible to pass every class as long as you try hard enough, and there are endless ways for you to get help.
    Tips for prospective students

    Prepare to work harder than you have before, but make sure to get involved in some way on campus. Participating in events and organizations on campus really help you get accustomed to the school and help you have fun! Also make sure to have as much fun as possible during orientation week because that is your last stress free week.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon is really different from most schools. It's big, but small enough to know a good amount of people there. There are a lot of events that go on so that there is always something to do.
  • 06/18/2012

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    29 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Hard-working, motivated, silly, out-of-the-box, dorky yet proud.
    Food and Dining

    Have been hearing that the food is not too great here. Sucks because for freshman year you have to pick a meal plan. RED 9.
    Dorm Life

    I've already found my roomie! Make sure to research the dorms and what they offer before applying for housing. They even have housing for quiet kids!
    Academic Rigor

    If this is anything like IB, then we're in for a ride.
    In three sentences

    Just meeting the kids on the Facebook '16 page and through Google Hangouts lets me know that this is the place for me.
  • 06/25/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    30 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus police is always around and the campus is very safe. You can feel same at the oddest hours of the night even though we are in the city. It is very secure.
    Greek Life

    Greek life is very active on campus and in the community.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are a LOT of organizations to join on campus, but don't overload on joining too many. :-) You will find something that you love.
    Great for these types of students

    Anyone who is driven, loves diversity, and is passionate about anything. You will find something that you are passionate about around campus.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    BUGGY!!!!!! It's to epic to explain. Honestly, it is one of the most talked about events during Carnival weekend.
    What to do for fun

    There is always something to do on the weekends whether it's a frat party or an organization's late night event. You will always find something to do.
    Food and Dining

    The food is good as well, but it can get repetitive. There are some vegan and vegetarian options as well, so there is a nice variety for every person.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are very nice, Some don't have AC, but it is manageable. They are clean as well.
    Academic Rigor

    The professors expect you to put in a lot of effort into your work, but they understand that you are a student as well. They will help you out if you need it and your peers will as well.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be too hard on yourself. You will make some mistakes, but stay connected with a good group of friends and you will be fine. Also try some activities that you never thought you would.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon is a great school. Everyone here is passionate about what they do and they enjoy it as well. You will meet great people here as well.
  • 07/06/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    31 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus police is always close by and the school wants to ensure above all else the safety of its students. If any crime or suspicion of something happens, all students will be notified by a mass e-mail instantaneously.
    Greek Life

    There's not an extensive Greek life on campus but it is very active in recruiting and social gatherings as well as parties.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are hundreds of clubs and organizations and all you have to do to create one is gather 5 people interested and you can apply to be a club or organization.
    Great for these types of students

    The school is great for all types of students. Mostly for those that want to experience diversity and cultures because that is what Carnegie Mellon is all about; and we all bring something new to the mixture.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Buggy has got to be the most unique campus tradition. This is the event where all the organizations compete against each other in a race with their own designed and built buggies.
    Bang for the buck

    I would say that without a doubt Carnegie Mellon has an immense amount of resources and activities to show for the money it collects.
    What to do for fun

    There's all types of possibilities from a day outside playing with your friends to doing research with your professors. There are many school sponsored events like skiing or whit-water rafting where you get incredible discounts.
    Food and Dining

    It is mostly unhealthy and repetitive. But within the school you can find that there are places that have top-notch quality food. You just have to look for them.
    Dorm Life

    Make sure you get many friends so that you can get pulled into the best places on campus. Only some dorms get air conditioning.
    Academic Rigor

    All classes I've taken have proven to be challenging and important in the growth of my knowledge.
    Tips for prospective students

    Enjoy every second of it and take all the opportunities granted. The money paid only goes into value if you decide so.
    In three sentences

    Resources and opportunities will be more than available to those who want them. The professors want nothing but the students' growth. Yet most importantly, everyone here is family, we all love and help each other.
  • 07/10/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    32 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Pittsburgh is one of the most livable and safest cities in the country. Still, there a emergency phones and lights stationed all around campus so if anyone is in danger, police (Campus Police, Pittsburgh Police and University of Pittsburgh Police) are just a button push away and are trained to be where you are within a minute.
    Greek Life

    About 20% of students are involved in Greek Life on campus, and everyone who is involved loves it. We offer about 20 fraternities and sorties combined on campus
    Clubs and Activities

    CMU boasts about 300 student clubs and organizations which are easy to join and start.
    Great for these types of students

    Hard-working, passionate, unique students that have the confidence to change and lead their field.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    THE FENCE. The campus of CMU used to be split by a ravine guarded by a fence. When campus was going to be expanding, the ravine was going to be filled and the fence taken out. Since it was a usual meeting spot for students, students weren't happy about this. The night before its demolition, a fraternity snuck out and painted it to advertise a party. Since then, the Fence has been painted over and over by different school organizations and clubs. There is competition over who owns the fence and it is the by far the most fun and widely recognized tradition on campus.
    Bang for the buck

    CMU is a very expensive school, but when students come out in the top of their fields, its definitely worth the price. Majority of students are on financial aid.
    What to do for fun

    The city of Pittsburgh offers many things to do for fun. Students' IDs also qualify as a bus pass so transportation is easy. Students have free admission to museums and get discounts at many restaurants around Pittsburgh. The school is located about 10 minutes walk from both Oakland and Shadyside, two communities that offer shopping, restaurants, movie theatre etc.
    Food and Dining

    The dining system is great. There is not main cafeteria at CMU like other colleges but instead many different venues scattered throughout campus making food always close with many different options to choose from every night such as Indian, Vegan/Vegetarian, Pasta, Mexican etc.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are very nice, many of them new or newly renovated. Definitely spacious enough. First years are required to live on campus but the option becomes available to move off campus sophomore year, which many students take advantage off.
    Academic Rigor

    This school is VERY rigorous. Expect many late nights and early mornings and lots of classes.
    Tips for prospective students

    This school is definitely designed for people who know what they want to do and are willing to work to the extreme for it. There is not a strong sense of community within the entire university but each school (school of computer science, engineering, drama etc) develops an insane strong community of love, support and friendship.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon University offers an intense 4 years of training and education for all its students, regardless of their major. Each and every student is immeasurably passionate about their field of study. After graduation, students come out in the top positions of their field, making an average 20,000/year more than students graduating from other universities.
  • 07/11/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    33 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    The CMU Alert System keeps students aware of important safety-related events taking place on and near campus. There is an escort system if you feel uncomfortable walking back to your dorm alone at night. Campus Security has always been accessible.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are so many clubs and activities offered. There are lots of recreational sports clubs. There's buggy, which is quite popular. (Look it up, it's interesting.) There are also more relaxed clubs like the Board Game Club or more theatrical ones like Scotch and Soda Theater or more innovative ones like the Robotics club. If you don't like any of them, you can make one.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    THE FENCE! The Fence sits in the middle of campus. It gets painted by organizations on campus or just groups of friends that want to get some sort of message to the campus. The Fence can only be painted between midnight and sunrise and has to be guarded once your message is up, or else, anyone can paint over it.
    What to do for fun

    The city of Pittsburgh is abounding with things to do. Carnegie Mellon is right next the Phipps Conservatory, within walking distance to the Cathedral of Learning, and generally an accessible distance from the cultural district, shopping areas, the Science Museum, and the Duquesne Incline. There are also tons of things on campus to do, but if those don't interest you, you can find ads for interesting things nearby that you can catch a bus to.
    Food and Dining

    The food is palatable. We could stand to have a greater variety and healthier options for those on the meal plans (which applies to all first-years). All things considered, you can definitely find something or someplace to eat that won't get too monotonous. There are also tons of food places nearby to eat at if you want to take a break from campus food for a bit. A few of these places will accept payment from your meal plan too.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are generally nice and livable. Carnegie does its best to make sure we are comfortable in the dorms and that we have the support we need to deal with being away from home (if we need it). There are options for quiet living if you prefer, but as someone who did not choose that I would say noise levels don't tend to be too bad.
    Academic Rigor

    The rigor differs depending on your college or program, but Carnegie will definitely push you pretty hard, no matter what program you're in.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be confident and be ready for a great challenge. Expect to get knocked down a few times in your first year, but remember that your comeback makes it all worthwhile. Also, bring business clothes and start preparing your resumes.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon offers the best of the college experience. It delivers the academic rigor that it is known for, especially among its students, and also offers opportunities and outlets for your passions and entertainment needs. Living and learning at Carnegie Mellon ensures that you dull moments are few and far between.
  • 07/12/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    34 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Never have felt threatened at CMU.
    Greek Life

    Not a huge factor at CMU though Greek life is visible and greeks can be seen working on various events around campus. Overall though, no pressure to join, although those that do certainly enjoy it.
    Clubs and Activities

    Too many to list!
    Great for these types of students

    Driven, intelligent, and talented students can all find a place at CMU.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    One of the only schools to still offer a major in bagpipes, CMU is closely tied to Scottish tradition.
    Bang for the buck

    CMU is pretty pricey, but the education and atmosphere are well worth it. You feel as though you're a part of the next generation of leaders, and you are!
    What to do for fun

    The city of Pittsburgh provides so much to do for fun! If you're not involved at CMU's campus (and there are PLENTY of opportunities), you can visit one of the many other colleges in the area and meet new people there. And if you don't want to do that, Pittsburgh has everything a big city has to offer, great shopping, good dining, and awesome culture.
    Food and Dining

    One of the only things CMU is not top-ranked in. Typical college food and dining.
    Dorm Life

    Great people at CMU, it's a wonderful school to be a part of and the dorm life was great.
    Academic Rigor

    The level of academic courses at CMU is very high. So is the amount of work, both inside and outside class.
    Tips for prospective students

    Have fun in college but make sure to go to class and get your work done first. After all, you are paying to go there, do your best!
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon provides one of the most unique college experiences I have ever witnessed. The diversity of the students, both in nationality and in talent has yet to stop impressing me. The school promotes academics and talent above all and the amount of support available is outstanding.
  • 07/31/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    35 of 48

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Pittsburgh is a huge city - it offers everything a metropolis possibly could.
    Food and Dining

    In the first few months, the array of choices seems endless. Pretty soon everyone is sick of the food and ready to get off of the meal plan.
    Dorm Life

    Depends on the dorm. Some I would give 5 stars, some I would give 3 or fewer. Freshman dorms especially tend to be very social places.
    Academic Rigor

    Classes are extremely challenging.
    Tips for prospective students

    The most important thing is to take full advantage of the incredible array of opportunities CMU offers, because college is truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance to study, meet people, travel, explore, learn, and grow.
    In three sentences

    CMU is an incredible place to attend college. Students here are immensely diverse, but they all have one thing in common: a willingness to work. While certain programs here are more highly-regarded nationally, professors and courses are top-notch in all disciplines.
  • 08/22/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    36 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Very safe.
    Greek Life

    Awesome. Minimal hazing, maximal fun and brotherhood.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's a club for everything, if you can make time for it.
    Great for these types of students

    Studious Smart Ambitious
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Freshman Orientation The Fence Carnival (buggy, booth) Bagpipes, kilts
    Bang for the buck

    It's a really expensive school, but it will prepare you so well for jobs that you don't need to worry about it.
    What to do for fun

    Explore pittsburgh! Especially Southside.
    Food and Dining

    College food. It's not the best, but it gets you by.
    Dorm Life

    Not your typical college dorm life. You can, however, find parties, if you're in that crowd.
    Academic Rigor

    extremely rigorous.
    Tips for prospective students

    Work hard, or your grades will suffer. Take advantage of research opportunities and TA for classes that you're interested in.
    In three sentences

    Excellent academics. Social life is acceptable, but balancing social life and academics is extremely difficult. This is the school for you if you want to learn a lot during your undergraduate education.
  • 09/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    37 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Nerds who can do more than just school.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    You need to paint the fence at least once in your college career!
    Bang for the buck

    I am not sure yet, but I hope.
    What to do for fun

    I hang out with friends most weekends and take little adventures around the city. If we want to party, we go to Pitt because the parties are CMU are less than par.
    Food and Dining

    The food is bad unless you learn to customize and make friends with the people in dining services.
    Dorm Life

    The community makes the dorms better, but no one can deny that the physical dorms are terrible.
    Academic Rigor

    You will work hard!
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure that you visit! The people here are unique, so you need to make sure that you are a fit. I can see a lot of people who want the prestige, but would hate it here, whereas others who did not think that they would get it, but did, love it because of the people.
    In three sentences

    I love everything about Carnegie. I am the Tepper School of Business, so I do not have as much work, but the rest of the school is constantly studying. The food is acceptable if you learn that orders can be customized.
  • 10/13/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    38 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus police can be contacted at any time. The campus is small and in a good neighborhood. There are always other students walking on campus, so it is never empty.
    Greek Life

    Greek life is definitely present at CMU, but by no means the majority. Greek houses provide the majority of parties, especially for freshmen, and typical greek stereotypes like hazing, and out of control alcohol are generally not present at CMU.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are plenty of clubs and activities at CMU. The problem is that most students are too busy with their classes and heavy workloads to participate in many clubs.
    Great for these types of students

    Motivated, studious, and with a general direction in what they want to do with their lives. It is not a good school for students who are undecided in their majors, or who are looking for a well rounded liberal arts education.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The fence is a landmark in the cut on the center of campus. Students can paint it during the night, and can guard it the following nights. Students are known to sleep by the fence in tents and sleeping bags.
    Bang for the buck

    Carnegie Mellon is very expensive. Most students here are having to pay much more then they had hoped for a college education, but in the end chose CMU because of the excellent education and the opportunities it provides its students. It is very rare to find someone who is unhappy with their experience at CMU.
    What to do for fun

    CMU is not known for it's great party life. For most students, this isn't a problem because they came for the great education. However, there are usually a few parties going on every friday and saturday night. There are also one dollar movies provided weekly in the University Center, live musical performances, shows and galleries from the College of Fine Arts, and many other fun things to do on campus.
    Food and Dining

    The food at Carnegie Mellon is good by college standards. Unlike other colleges, CMU doesn't have a typical dining hall or cafeteria. Instead, there are multiple locations throughout campus that are like informal restaurants where students use their meal-blocks to purchase food. There are lots of options, including sub sandwiches, sushi, burritos, indian food, waffles, sandwiches, pizza, and much more. The options are almost unlimited. There is also Skibo Café, which is open until 2am every night, which is always bustling. The one complaint people have is that meals are not worth the eight dollars that is charged regardless of what block meal you choose.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is what you make of it. While many students keep to themselves, there are also many opportunities provided to get out and get to know one another. Dorm meetings, discussions, movie nights, free food, etc are provided multiple times each week. The hall counselors are more than friendly and ready to get to know the students. A huge plus is orientation week, which Carnegie Mellon is known for. Orientation takes place over the entire first week for incoming freshmen, and while it is not required, attendance is excellent due to the fun activities and ice breakers.
    Academic Rigor

    Carnegie Mellon is known for it's intense academic rigor. All majors have an extensive course schedule that is required to graduate. The workload is substantial, and students can be described as the most studious. However, there is time to have fun and make great connections as well if you can manage your time well.
    Tips for prospective students

    Carnegie Mellon is a great school for any major they offer. All classes I've heard of or taken are excellent, taught by knowledgeable professors that are helpful and looking to help you succeed. As a prospective student, know that Carnegie Mellon expects a lot from its students. The workload is substantial, and studying on friday and saturday nights is common. If you want to come to Carnegie Mellon, be ready to work hard and be presented with amazing opportunities.
    In three sentences

    So far, Carnegie Mellon University has proven to be a wonderful college with lots of opportunities available. The staff here is ready to help, the students are all intelligent and friendly, and the teachers are excellent. The only negatives thus far is the slow social scene on campus, the weather, and huge workload.
  • 10/20/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    39 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Outstanding.... police on campus is great
    Greek Life

    Great with a lot of fraternities and sororities.
    Great for these types of students

    Entrepreneurs, Innovators and Nerds
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Not really.
    Bang for the buck

    Very expensive
    What to do for fun

    Extra Curricular Activities.
    Food and Dining

    Variety of cuisine
    Dorm Life

    Good but less of partying.
    Academic Rigor

    Very tough and demanding.
    Tips for prospective students

    It's all about studies and the college essays.
    In three sentences

    It is a brilliant university but academics are tough.
  • 10/30/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    40 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    The campus is very safe, with police officers monitoring activity constantly.
    Greek Life

    I'm a member of Alpha Phi women's fraternity, and so far I love it! About 30% of campus members are associated with Greek life. My sisters are like my second family here at school.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's literally a club for everything!
    Great for these types of students

    Great for the academically inclined and overachievers.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Fence is a trademark of CMU's campus.
    Bang for the buck

    Computer Science school just got rated one of the top ten best schools for your money.
    What to do for fun

    Explore Pittsburgh!
    Food and Dining

    The food on campus is constantly improving. CMU recently changed vendors to CulinArt, and students are satisfied with the improvements.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm bonding is definitely a major part of life here- I'm friends with people today that I lived with in my freshman dorm
    Academic Rigor

    VERY rigorous, be prepared to push yourself!
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply! It's a great school with lots of opportunities, and you never know if you'll have gotten in if you don't try. The campus is very lively during the year, and getting involved is as easy as signing up for an email list. There's always something fun going on, and students here definitely work hard, but play harder!
    In three sentences

    CMU is definitely a very challenging institution, but it's well worth it in the end. CMU graduates tend to do very well either with admissions to graduate institutions or with finding jobs right out of graduation. Take your high school's valedictorian, multiply him/her by 5,000, and that pretty much sums up CMU.
  • 11/25/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    41 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus Police has got your back.
    Greek Life

    FMR wasn't the most fun but I'm completely adoring being a sister. You should at least check it out. It by no means is dead. About 25% of campus is Greek.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Capture the Flag with Stuff, hosted by the CMU KGB. You've got to do it once before graduating :)
    What to do for fun

    Go to the symphony!
    Food and Dining

    The food here is not that bad, but does get monotonous. The block system ain't that hot, but it's only freshman year.
    Dorm Life

    Loving my dorm. I currently live in Donner House. My RA is excellent! She's a great resource for all things, from homework help to life advice.
    Academic Rigor

    It's a tough place, no lie. But you can manage if you do just that-- manage time, manage stress and manage fun.
  • 12/09/2012

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    42 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Very safe.
    Greek Life

    I'm Greek, along with 23% of campus. People who want to be Greek are, and they still have non-Greek friends as well.
    Clubs and Activities

    280+
    Great for these types of students

    People who enjoy a challenge, people who love knowledge, people who want a new experience.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Fence: Paint a fence with your message on it! Really cool, google it.
    Bang for the buck

    Hoping it will pay off after graduation :)
    What to do for fun

    Get involved! Once you're 21, Pittsburgh is a fun city.
    Dorm Life

    Lots of fun!
    Academic Rigor

    It's got a fantastic reputation with employers for a reason.
    Tips for prospective students

    Love what you do and where you go, no matter where that may be!
    In three sentences

    It's a great place to be challenged. It opens eyes to a lot of different experiences, and I could not imagine a better place for me.
  • 01/07/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    43 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    Campus police is just a quick call away and responds to any needs in seconds. CMU also has a SafeWalk program as well as EMS.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's a club for almost everything. It's extremely easy to find something you're interested in. And if you're not sure if you're interested, then you'll still find something you'll like.
    Great for these types of students

    Motivated, inspired
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Fence is the absolute best thing ever!
    What to do for fun

    Pittsburgh is an incredible city. There is always something going on. I would recommend trying different street car foods, going to the Strip District, climbing up the Cathedral of Learning, and exploring every district of Pittsburgh. Each area has a distinctness to it that's very interesting to compare.
    Food and Dining

    The food on campus tends to get tedious, but luckily, Pittsburgh as a city has a wide array of cuisines at cheap, college-kid tailored prices.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is great and luxurious. CMU provides several on campus housing options and a great RA staff. Adjusting well is a given.
    Academic Rigor

    This school is hard. It's filled with bright and innovative students, thus creating quite a competitive and sometimes intimidating atmosphere. But if you adopt the philosophy work hard, play hard, you will enjoy the academics here.
    Tips for prospective students

    Orientation is the most embarrassing, yet useful time you get in the entire school year to make friends. The friends you make during Orientation Week are the friends you keep throughout the year. Also, make sure you check out the general education requirements for the school you've applied to. Those make all the difference.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon University is a strong university for anyone interested in modern technology and the changing world. The people here are enterprising and ambitious, and you will be sure to find yourself in inspiring companionship. For someone who knows what they want to do and how to get there, CMU is the perfect place to start and thrive.
  • 02/27/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    44 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Campus Safety

    I always see the campus Police car patrolling the college streets. Dorms are very secure. Can only be open with card access and a specific code.
    Clubs and Activities

    Always a lot of options. Big event fair each semester. Lots of options to explore related to culture, sports, extracurricular activities, or community service.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The FENCE. Its a fence painted over way too many times. It is like eight inches thick only with paint. It is used to express college/group/community life spirit or just to make announcements.
    Bang for the buck

    Like mentioned before, watching movies each week at the University Center for $1.
    What to do for fun

    Attend many of CMU's special events like Spring Carnival, Lunar Gala (Fashion show), or even small events like movies at the University Center for $1 (movie theater style).
    Food and Dining

    Like dorm life, there is not only one cafeteria. There are many different eating areas and that also allows for many options and each student gets what is right for them.
    Dorm Life

    Overall, dorm life is really descent. There are various options so each students can find what type of living is right for them.
    Academic Rigor

    I don't know how else to say it, but teachers at CMU want students to WANT to study, WANT to learn new things. There comes a point where even the laziest students have the initiative to start working and learning new things.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get ready to meet great people, each one with unique personalities and background. Be open minded and learn to accept people how they are. Everyone is talented and certainly passionate about what they are studying. Classes might become really stressful, but that passion helps every student here at CMU keep moving forward.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon has so far been a wonderful experience because of its close and intimate community. Everyone cares about each other, even teachers respect and treat students as individuals. Carnegie Mellon just makes students feel at home while also providing great education.
  • 03/08/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    45 of 48

    Categories Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Want to work across disciplines
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Box Car Competition
    What to do for fun

    Down town Pittsburgh
    Tips for prospective students

    Think outside the box.
    In three sentences

    Awesome atmosphere. Tight knit. Challenging.
  • 03/19/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    46 of 48

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Study!
    Food and Dining

    There are minimal option and most of it are unhealthy.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is great because you get to know everyone and it's usually pretty close to campus.
    Academic Rigor

    Courses at Carnegie Mellon are challenging, but they aren't impossible.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to come and work hard. No matter how hard you try to slack off, the atmosphere here makes everyone want to succeeded.
    In three sentences

    It's a great university with a beautiful campus in Oakland for students to attend to become academically challenged. The size of the university is big enough yet small enough so that students get to know one another. The academics here are challenging and rewarding.
  • 04/15/2013

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    47 of 48

    Categories Comments
    In three sentences

    An academically strong university with quirky, nerdy, and artistic students who enjoy what they're learning.
  • 04/30/2013

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    48 of 48

    Categories Comments
    What to do for fun

    Museum and theater admissions are often free for CMU students.
    Food and Dining

    Fairly diverse range of dining options.
    Dorm Life

    Every freshman has to live in one, they are a great way to meet friends outside your major.
    Academic Rigor

    The infamous CMU stress culture reveals the intense workload of this school. Expect countless all-nighters if you come here.
    Tips for prospective students

    Consider the selectivity of the program you are applying to, you can always transfer once you're in.
    In three sentences

    Carnegie Mellon academics are rigorous, but quite rewarding. Almost every student here is exceptional, and very motivated about their field of study (and other things). It is definitely not a party school, but you can still find parties.
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