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College of William & Mary Reviews

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Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See College of William & Mary reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending College of William & Mary. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free College of William & Mary reviews, or contribute your own College of William & Mary review if you're a current student there.

  • 28 out of 29 people found this review useful.

    Anna from MI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    You will find great professors at William and Mary, and not just in the upper level courses. There will always be the dud teachers, but most truly want to be there to teach, not just to do research. It the ideal place for them to do both and they are very passionate about students and involving them in their research.
    Am enjoying being here

    You will meet some of the nicest people in the world at William and Mary, and this carries over past just four years in Virginia.
    Bang for the buck

    For in state students, it is the best college deal in the entire country. For out of staters, being a public university has some down falls, but the tuition is still lower than private colleges.
    Tips for prospective students

    Fill out the optional application submission and have fun with it!
    Great for these types of students

    Quirky, work hard yet play hard students who are always busy because they are the leaders and joiners of so many organizations. They want to make a difference in the world.

  • 21 out of 21 people found this review useful.

    Matthew from Fairfax, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors at WM have what's called office hours, which is time dedicated to helping students who decide to visit. The average size of classes is small, so professors are able to spend time with you if you want to. For instance, I missed a class because I was ill, and my professor practically repeated his lecture for me. Mind you, professors have their own papers and research going on and are thus not always free, but if you have a will to learn and are having a little trouble, professors at WM are definitely willing to help.
    Am enjoying being here

    College life is overall, the best experience ever. There is always something going on on campus, whether it is a concert hosted by students activities or a school-wide activity hosted by Greek life. The people you meet at WM are generally smart and can mix work with play pretty well. Learning to do that is probably the hardest aspect of living on campus, and even that is enjoyable.
    Bang for the buck

    Paying in-state tuition, I feel that I am definitely getting a bang for the buck. Even for those coming from out-of-state, tuition at WM is close to ten thousand less than tuition at a similar private school. The reason I would give WM 4/5 stars is due to the fact that it is a state school and cannot provide much financial aid beyond what the government is providing. Besides that, this is my greatest monetary investment, and that includes the rain boots I just bought.
    Tips for prospective students

    As a prospective, I had been told of the sporadic weather that Williamsburg was blessed with, but I had not planned accordingly. The end of August was scorchingly hot, especially without an A/C unit in my room. The random downpours were also quite inconvenient for getting to class, as I had failed to bring both an umbrella and waterproof shoes. I ended up wearing flipflops in the rain and went to the study lounge whenever it got too hot. Just a thought: bring an umbrella and a fan/air conditioning unit.
    Great for these types of students

    William and Mary is a great school for anyone who wants a chance to take classes in a variety of departments. It is also growing increasingly diverse, both in terms of the upcoming classes as well as extracurricular opportunities. There are many activities to discover, including a rock climbing wall in the rec center and a colonial town within sight. The campus is perfect for history buffs, bird watchers, and even those wanting to get involved in Greek life. Seeing as it is a place of higher education, it is also a great place for students who have a passion for learning, where professors and peers will help you learn and get where you want to go.

  • 17 out of 17 people found this review useful.

    Madeline from VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    William and Mary has blown my mind, and I love it. The classes are small and the professors are not only intelligent and talented but incredibly giving with their time, so personalized academic help is just a 5-minute walk or an email away. What surprised me, though, was how much I learned from my classmates! W&M is a tough school, and the intelligence, work ethic and dedication I see on a daily basis are positively humbling. Those same students are friendly, too, and often eager to share and listen to ideas. However the students are not competing with each other - the academic atmosphere both challenges and encourages students, and intellectual growth is almost inevitable, but not miserable and GPA-driven. W&M is also unique in its opportunities for undergraduate research. Professors who give so much time and effort to quality classes also often are conducting research, and they do not limit valuable research assistant positions to graduate students. Some friends of mine in a Biology lab discovered a new strain of bacteria phage - as freshmen! Few universities can offer both quality undergraduate classes and so many opportunities for both professor-led and independent undergraduate research.
    Am enjoying being here

    At William and Mary, work hard and play harder barely captures the atmosphere on campus. Academics come first, and everyone has that priority in common. Still, often the most difficult decision of the week is not how to come up with a thesis to answer a question for a paper, but what to do on a Friday night when four or five great possibilities all conflict! The students know how to have a good time, and most also have a good heart - volunteer work is common and constantly increasing.
    Bang for the buck

    I am an in-state student, and chose William and Mary partly for the in-state rate, despite its shortage of financial aid. Still, W&M puts students first, and it shows! Not only is a W&M education top-notch, but there is someone on-campus to help you with any conceivable question, dream, problem, or idea - for free. Swem Library is phenomenal, and offers services that I never knew any school could provide, let alone in a library. The on-campus events, organizations, and activities are fantastic, and almost all the flyers advertising meetings or events or clubs usually promise free food.
    Tips for prospective students

    Complete an optional submission - it can be anything! I submitted a DVD of a short film that I had completed during my time at the 2007 Virginia Summer Governor's School for the Humanities. It required no extra effort on my part except burning another DVD. I know other people who submitted essays written for other college applications. This is your chance to stand out!
    Great for these types of students

    William and Mary is highly residential, meaning the vast majority of students live on-campus, a few live very nearby, and only a handful commute. Thus the College is great for students who want a traditional on-campus college experience and/or for students who will not have a car in college. I literally can walk everywhere I need to, and bike only if I'm running late.
    For those interested specifically in a career in government or law, William and Mary's student body and location hold many possibilities. About two-thirds of the student body live in Virginia, and about half of those students live in northern Virginia, right outside of D.C. The W&M government department is huge, the W&M D.C. office coordinates more activities and internships every year, and chances are you will have at least one friend whose parent works for the government. That friend may or may not be allowed to know what exactly his/her parent does for the government!
    William and Mary has solid academic departments across the board, and so also would be great for students who, like me, had no clue what to study in college right out of high school. You can choose to study anything at W&M and get a quality education. I recently decided on a Film Studies major while also undertaking pre-medical classes, which is completely possible. William and Mary academics and busy campus lifestyle are not for the faint of heart or for those who want life to be easy. However, the work pays off immediately - life at William and Mary is immensely rewarding and ridiculously fun!

  • 8 out of 8 people found this review useful.

    Andrea from Williamsburg, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Learning is a relative term- it is said that it is impossible to stop learning. This is especially true at William and Mary. Learning isn't limited to the classroom. Walking from one’s dorm room to the cafeteria, a William and Mary student can learn about the history of America by passing various colonial buildings. For example, the Brafferton Building, built in 1723 was one of the first Indian schools and it is right in the middle of William and Mary campus. Students are constantly in a learning environment - whether in an academic building or in a freshman dorm. Students learn how to become adults, to test their limits, and to grow intellectually.
    Am enjoying being here

    William and Mary has the perfect environment. Not only is the campus absolutely beautiful, but the students and faculty are friendly. It has the perfect combination of a learning and social environment. Friends greet each other on their way to class and it is easy to meet new people daily. There is an area on the campus called the Terrace where students can sit and enjoy lunch, drink their morning coffee, or study and socialize. Since it is outside, and in the center of campus, it is impossible not to see friends and peers passing by. On a sunny day, it is the perfect place to lounge. Another great thing about William and Mary is that it has all four seasons. Students can experience the beauty of spring, the warm summer, leaves changing color in the fall, and snow in the winter. The night life is active and it is an all-around good time with endless activities.
    Bang for the buck

    For in-state students, William and Mary is such a bargain! It was recognized by a national magazine as one of the leading public universities. It is even affordable for out-of-state students since it is a public school. Students have the opportunity to take large lecture classes or small classes (15 people or less). Students will be able to know their professors personally and can participate in research.
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply to William and Mary.
    Be Yourself.
    Study, but not too hard.
    Have Fun.

    William and Mary Tips:
    - VISIT THE SCHOOL!!
    - Enjoy the tour
    - Ask the tour guide many questions
    - Walk past the sunken gardens
    - Visit the Wren Building while on Campus
    - Take a picture with Thomas Jefferson

    Once You're at William and Mary:
    - take a class in the Wren Building
    - play frisbee in the sunken gardens
    - listen to your echo at the whispering wall
    - Throw a holly leaf into the fire
    - go to Convocation as a freshman and an upperclassmen
    - make your own memories and your mark on William and Mary
    Great for these types of students

    William and Mary is diverse: culturally, ethnically, economically, interests-wise. It is the perfect school for any student interested broadening his / her horizons and opening the doors to success. It is great for all students.

  • 5 out of 5 people found this review useful.

    Samantha from Chicago, IL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Being at the College of William and Mary is so much more than a classroom education! The professors know what the real world is like and relate all the material they teach the students to something that will truly pertain to life after college. The professors think out of the box and use methods, such as observations, research, and games that go beyond the traditional lecture hall style. William and Mary is without a doubt one of the country's best public Ivys!
    Am enjoying being here

    The best word to describe William and Mary is Community, ask any other student and they will agree. We may not have the best football team in the country, but our students all come out to support the players and looking into the stands is a sea of yellow and green! No student at WM is the same, you will learn so much not only from your professors, but from the students as well and that is a great environment to spend 4 years in!
    Bang for the buck

    William and Mary is by far one of the best public schools in the nation. This means that the education surpasses most other universities, however the pricetag isn't painful to look at! Living in Williamsburg is relatively cheap, and the school offers so many free activities that I never feel compelled to spend a lot of money while I am on campus.
    Tips for prospective students

    In applying to WM, be different! The admissions office is looking for a person who will surprise them, excite them, and pull at their heart strings. Write your essay about something that you know no one else in the country will write about and you will definitley distinguish yourself among the competitive applicant pool. And as always, just be yourself!
    Great for these types of students

    The students at WM are a little quirky, they all have something interesting or different about themselves and are certainly not ones to just follow the heard. Students at William and Mary are driven and want to make a name for themselves on campus and after graduation, but there is no competitive air between students like you might see at other top-ranked schools. We form the best community to live and learn in!

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Kristin from Colorado Springs, CO

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    While my academic course load here isn't completely overwhelming, I am learning a lot in class. Some classes are definitely more work than others (labs, for example), but my classes are definitely teaching me. All of the professors that I have are very accessible and knowledgeable about their subject. The classes are all taught by professors, not grad students, which is nice. First semester course load depends a lot on which freshman seminar you take, but as a whole, I'm learning quite a bit academically.

    Outside of school, there are a wide range of people here, so you have a chance to make friends in whatever environment you prefer - whether out socializing at nights, or hanging out in your dorm with friends. So, yes, I'm learning a lot both in and out of the classroom.
    Am enjoying being here

    There are so many clubs and organizations that are very involved on campus, as well as tons of different people from all sorts of backgrounds. I really like how accepting W&M is of all sorts of differences.

    The student-run group AMP (Alma Mater Productions) puts on lots of different events - they bring in musicians and speakers and comedy events. Clubs put on programs open to everyone, so there's always something to do.

    There's the normal college transition here, as well as everywhere, but so far I'm enjoying the experience.
    Bang for the buck

    Compared to private universities that give similar educations, William & Mary is a great deal. Even though I'm from out-of-state, tuition for me is still much less than most of the other schools I was looking at. No matter what you're paying, you're getting a great education here, that I think is worth it.

    The only problem is that William & Mary gives very little merit-based financial aid. They have good need-based aid, but earning extra money from the College is difficult for freshman and its highly competitive. There are more scholarships and grants available for things like research and study abroad once you're accepted, though.
    Tips for prospective students

    If it's at all possible, visit campus! I toured campus, hung out on the Sunken Gardens, and sat in on classes. Somewhere during that day, I fell in love. If you can't visit, don't be afraid to e-mail professors and just ask what they think about their program, and what their experiences have been like. All of the people in the admissions office, as well as all of the professors I e-mailed were more than willing to talk to me about the College.
    Great for these types of students

    Stereotypically W&M students are the nerdy, slightly offbeat type. We're into being a little bit crazy sometimes, and we show our enthusiasm. But there is still an active sorority and fraternity community, and a good football team. I've found all kinds of people here. It's a community of people who are interested in what they're doing.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Taylor from California

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am learning a lot in most of my classes, although I transferred here and have had trouble getting teachers to let me test out of classes (particularly where the classes are major requirements), so I'm stuck taking a class right now that is all review. Overall, though, I think most of the classes are pretty rigorous but are taught well so that the students come out actually understanding the material rather than memorizing a lot of stuff they will forget a week after the exam.
    Am enjoying being here

    I absolutely love William and Mary. I am in way too many student clubs and activities and there are still more that I really want to get involved with. They really do have a club for everything here, and if for some reason there isn't one already, you can start one. There isn't much to do off campus in the evenings, but there is always something happening on campus, and at such a small school, you know a lot of the students so chances are you will at least run into someone you know even if you don't plan to go with someone ahead of time.
    Bang for the buck

    For in state students it's reasonable, but for out of state students it's expensive. It is definitely worth it, but will probably mean a lot of student loans (at least in my case). The dining hall meals are also expensive (about $10 per meal swipe) and I don't always use all of them because it's pretty easy to get tired of dining hall food.
    Tips for prospective students

    Watch out for confusion corner (where you cross the street from the Wren building end of campus to get to CW). Try to get at least one class in Wren (the oldest Academic building in continuous use in the US) before you graduate. Find a group to get involved in, particularly if you are looking at transferring and don't have a freshman hall, because it's easiest to make friends that way. My biggest tip for prospective students, no matter where you end up enrolling is not to enroll without visiting the campus. I did that last year and it was HORRIBLE. It ended well because now I'm at William and Mary, but freshman year is hard enough without going to a college you end up hating.

    Great for these types of students

    TWAMPs! TWAMP is a Typical William And Mary Person, which is to say just about anyone who is smart, friendly, honest (we take the honor code seriously) and enthusiastic about using what they learn to make a positive impact on the world. W&M places a lot of emphasis on integrity. It isn't a party school, but most of the social activities are through student organizations. Community service activities and spring break service trips are a big deal here, so if you are interested in community service and a strong academic program, William and Mary might be a great fit.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Christiana from Chevy Chase, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors at W&M are definitely great, some more so than others but you can find a phenomenal professor in any department, or for any type of class (if you take the time to look). In general, they make themselves very available outside of class time to talk, are engaging and passionate about their subject and are recognised experts in their field, outside of the university. In a lot of cases, you can even do research with the professors, even as an undergraduate. A few of my friends looked into it and had no problem finding a professor to work with, in a field they were interested in. This is especially true for science majors, because W&M has no graduate science program, so you aren't competing with grad students to do work with the professors.

    Learning comes from more than the professors though. W&M is a community of very intelligent and driven students. The other students impress you with your knowledge and challenge you to try harder. It's cliche, but you really do learn from your peers.

    W&M also provides ample opportunities to learn/ gain experience outside of the college. Study abroad is HIGHLY advertised and encouraged (and has very strong programs), and the career center is a fantastic resource for finding jobs/ internships while studying, during the summer, or after graduation.
    Am enjoying being here

    As I mentioned, the community here is great. Students are competitive, but in a positive way that encourages you to work harder; I have not encountered anyone that tries to out-compete by sabotaging others' work.

    The campus is beautiful. That's all I really need to say about it.
    Bang for the buck

    I am out of state, so tuition is incredibly expensive and the college is pretty stingy when it comes to financial aid. I am certain that I could not get the experience I'm having at W&M for cheaper, though, and I know that the experience will eventually be worth the extra costs and work. For the time being though, the high price is a big worry, and one that I probably wouldn't have at most other universities in the country.
    Tips for prospective students

    for people who are accepted:
    Attend Admitted Students Day . It was what convinced me about William and Mary- I hadn't been too impressed on the tours or other visits, but they had really good programs at their admitted students day and they gave me a much better understanding of what William and Mary is really like.

    for people who decide to go:
    Visit the Cohen Career Center your freshman year and definitely sign up for the various listservs that the Center offers. Make an appointment to get advice on your resume, or to look in to possible internship/ job opportunities, even if you aren't interested in applying for any yet. Make yourself known there and start that relationship with them, because they'll end up offering you opportunities you might not have known to even look for otherwise.

    Be thoughtful when answering the questions about the dorm you'll live in. Your freshman hall is really what makes the difference between a good freshman year and an invaluable freshman year.

    Buy a cider mug from the Bake Shop on dog (duke of Gloucester) street in January. For $11 you get free cider, soda, coffee, ice cream (possibly more...) for an entire year, so if you buy it in January you'll have it for two semesters instead of one.

    Orientation is not at all what college is actually like, but bear with the sleep deprivation and awkward mixers because it definitely keeps you from being homesick and will prove to have been a worthwhile experience by the end of the week.
    Great for these types of students

    Students at William and Mary are called twamps (typical William and Mary person). I'm not entirely sure how to best describe what that means, but definitely intelligent and driven (as I mentioned before), but also pretty dorky (in the best way possible). I've met some of the funniest and smartest people here, but none of them take themselves too seriously. If you've got quirks and like to laugh, you should fit in fine.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Emily from Yorba Linda, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    William and Mary has awesome faculty and a wide-range of course options. There are general ed requirements of course, where if you are already familiar with the topic may expect to be disappointed, but I was challenged even in courses I felt overly prepared for. Each class expanded my horizons and stretched me in ways I had not expected. The professors expect a lot of us but in return pour a lot of themselves back in to the students. That combination really maximizes how much each students learns and grows.
    Am enjoying being here

    Besides the academics, the best part of W&M is the sense of community. The honor code and general morale on campus makes the 5,000 students on campus feel like a much smaller number. There are so many rich traditions combined with passion and innovation that make W&M a very unique, very special place.
    Bang for the buck

    For in-state students, tuition is great and there are a lot of aid options. Unfortunately, I am from out of state and received no financial aid. The education is well worth the $40,000 ticket price for out-of-state students, but it still hits the pocket pretty hard.
    Tips for prospective students

    WORK HARD. It's not an easy school to get into and they expect a lot out of you once you get here. But the opportunities at W&M, the connections you'll make, and the extraordinary growth as a student and as a person that you will experience is 1000% worth it. Apply early if you know that this is the place for you.
    Great for these types of students

    It's not a party school by any means, but if you want to learn and are interested in community service, politics, or international relations- this is THE school for you! I read once that all Griffins are a little bit nerdy, but endearingly so... it couldn't be more true!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Student from RI

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    william & mary is an excellent institution that will make you work for your prestigious degree in an academic environment. the focus here is clearly on academics, but greek life and various clubs and organizations guarantee something to do for everyone. it could take a while, but if you're willing to actively seek out your niche and what makes you tick, you shouldn't have a problem establishing a solid base of academics, extracurriculars, and friends.
    Tips for prospective students

    prospective students should have good study skills and not be afraid of devoting time and energy to their schoolwork. william & mary also likes to see students with personality (the student body here seems to take pride in its collective dorkiness, ex. love of harry potter, lord of the rings, etc.) so try to do something creative for the application's optional supplement that captures who you are, or at least some of your better qualities.
    Academic Rigor

    the classes here can be challenging, but i was surprised at how few concrete assignments were given in some of my classes. tests and papers often carry the weight of your grade, so studying independently is far and above the key to doing well academically (no coasting by on natural intelligence here!). many of the students here, however, are used to academic rigor, having taken ap and ib courses in high school, and may find that some courses are less or merely as demanding as their harder high school classes - overall, academics here are rigorous but definitely doable with the right work ethic.
    Dorm Life

    most of the dorms here are alright (there are around twenty). they aren't renovated very often, but some of the nicer and newer dorms include barrett and dupont (both freshman dorms) and jamestown north and south (upperclassman dorms, both very new). there are also a number of apartments that are open to the housing lottery, as well as several small houses located in the middle of campus. halls are usually coed, with single-gender wings. most dorms don't have air-conditioning (although you can easily get a unit from the school if you get a doctor's note saying you have allergies) and you can find cockroaches in some of the older dorms every once in a while, especially while it's warmer.
    Food and Dining

    the biggest selection of all-you-can-eat food is at the commons dining hall (also known as the caf), although this option is also offered at the sadler center dining hall. the food offered at these halls is usually simple but alright, and if all else fails, waffles, pizza, and salad are always options. the marketplace offers a different kind of swipe system, where you basically get one plate of food from any of the stations and a fountain drink and then swipe for that. there's also an einstein's bagels underneath sadler and a cafe in the library.
    What to do for fun

    a little over a quarter of both female and male students join greek life, and (speaking from the outside) the greek community seems really tight-knit and is a good way to get to know a lot of people on campus really fast. there are a number of sports teams and clubs, including things like quidditch and fencing, and a bunch of other random organizations you'd expect on a college campus. a cappella singing is relatively popular here (there are eleven groups). there are a lot of open frat parties in the beginning of the year, but as the school year progresses most of the parties are either closed or are mixers. late-night events such as trivia are put on every so often by amp.
    Bang for the buck

    for in-state students this is a fantastic value. as an out-of-state student, i can say the cost of attending this school was lower than it would have been for a lot of the private schools i applied to, in terms of the cost of tuition before and after financial aid and scholarships. i do know a lot of people who were offered work-study who had trouble finding a job on-campus, though. overall, in my opinion, this school offers a better-quality education than a lot of more expensive schools, private and public.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    some william & mary traditions include campus golf, celebrating charter day, wren ten's, completing the infamous triathlon, and walking through the doors of the wren building during orientation (and back out in the opposite direction when you graduate).
    Great for these types of students

    hardworking, academic-minded, outgoing, friendly, and level-headed students will thrive here. people who know how to relax and play after working hard will also fit in well here.
    Campus Safety

    campus safety is quite good. the college uses the blue light system, and the phone numbers for steer clear and campus escort (two nighttime services where a driver will come pick you up if you're on or close to campus) as well as campus police are on the backs of everyone's student id.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Meha from Colorado

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    the college of william and mary is: quirky. i have met some of the most amazing, down-to-earth people here; kindness and humor is emphasized, and academic passion is a must. college is what you make of it but w&m will be more than happy to meet you half way!!! :)
    Tips for prospective students

    who are you down to your toes and that squishy part between your ribcage and gallbladder? for my application essay, i wrote about how i used to hate my name because it's different/cultural/ergo weird but how, through reading and writing and general growing-up, i came to love my name and all that it represents. what's your flavor? what do you dream about? in your applications show don't tell who you are with anecdotes/stories about things that make you tick, things that have changed you. be honest, funny and quirky.
    Academic Rigor

    w&m is no joke! make friends with your professors, do your work/reading, study ahead of time and you will be fine. better time management = more free time = less stress = more fun! you learn that in college ;)
    Dorm Life

    average dorms (mold, cockroaches in the summer, no ac in some) but the people there are amazing. if you want strong friendships for life then opt for a small dorm freshman year. the housing lottery sucks so maybe look at special housing one year!
    Food and Dining

    average--three and a half stars. sadler (central dining) is the best and sometimes they do a great job but the meats are iffy...salad bar/pizza is excellent. the caf is crap (i have maybe two friends that like it) and marketplace is pretty good (they have an excellent deli section/veggie burger...) wish they had organic options though...
    What to do for fun

    go to colonial williamsburg (cw)! (i'm an old/quiet soul so i like walking around/people watching/going to shops with friends/going to the williamsburg library...it's a very picturesque setting). fun really happens when you're hanging out with friends and someone says, hey! does anyone want to____? (fill in the blank with go see a shakespeare play, go stargazing at lake matoaka, go off campus and watch a movie, etc). i've been to some great college parties (implication?) hosted by upperclassmen friends (i don't drink but i have fun anyway and never feel pressured to drink...) the frats have dance parties, but i've heard it's rank nasty sometimes...i love dancing but i've never been to the frats. you'll just have to see for yourself, i guess!
    Bang for the buck

    sucks for out-of-state students, great deal for in-state...very high-quality school overall :)
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    colonial williamsburg events (during winter it looks adorable!) and wawa runs (for snacks).
    Great for these types of students

    nerdy, quirky, funny, adventurous; must value education and positive friendship above all!!!
    Clubs and Activities

    i am vp of club tennis and it is amazing and awesome and marvelous i've met some of my best friends through the club, and i know many people have similar experiences with other sports clubs. we got fourth place in sectionals and are going to nationals in april.
    Greek Life

    about a third of people are in frats. it's not a big deal if you are/aren't; it's not really a huge status change if you are/aren't. people are very down-to-earth here. frats/sororities are a good way to meet a crap ton of people but at the same time rush/general events take a crap ton of time. there are also stereotypes associated with each one so just be aware--i don't really judge based on that, so whatever floats your boat!
    Campus Safety

    very safe campus! very trusting, close-knit environment. we leave our keys/ids/wallets/phones on tables to reserve them at mealtimes, i've lost my id and had it returned twice, etc. etc. that said, our professors accuse us of being a bit too trusting and there have been some incidences with stealing in the past (bikes and textbooks especially for some reason). don't be an idiot but don't worry, basically.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Anna Rose from New Providence, NJ

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I'm not sure yet what I want to major in, so I've taken a variety of different classes here. They are all STELLAR, and I'm not just talking about the astronomy class I had last semester! The GER's force you to become well-rounded, and you'll be exposed to great teachers and subjects outside your main interest. All the teachers care passionately about their subjects, and most can even communicate that to the students. I've taken several classes that have really opened my mind.
    Am enjoying being here

    The students are friendly, intelligent, and motivated. The campus is gorgeous and absolutely OOZING with history and tradition- you get a sense of that from your first day of orientation. There are clubs for anything you could be interested in, and there's always something randomly fun going on. The Rec Center has great facilities, the food is decent, and everyone has a functioning sense of humor. The whole school experience here is a dream come true.
    Bang for the buck

    I pay out-of-state tuition, which can be a real bummer, but I have enough financial aid, scholarships, etc. that it's not too much of a burden on my family. For in-state students, the education and experience here are insanely good for the price you're paying. Actually, that's true for me too!
    Tips for prospective students

    You will love the many traditions here, from serious ones like the Honor Code (which people do take seriously) to sillier ones like the Yule Log ceremony, where the president of the college reads Twas the Night Before Christmas to the student body. Practical tips: be sure to bring an air-conditioner, rain boots and an umbrella. Also, it's always cheaper to get the textbooks off Amazon.com than from Barnes and Noble. Finally, tight competition for classes means that freshman rarely get the ones they want, so use the website to keep track of which classes are full already and have several backups when registration comes.
    Great for these types of students

    Motivated, outgoing liberal arts students with a passion for knowledge and fun. There's a place for everyone here EXCEPT for slackers.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    JR Rob.

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The learning atmosphere is absolutely amazing at William and Mary, the brick buildings and historic landscape make the campus truly a place for academia.
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus definitely has a college feel to it. Its so historic and genuine. This is the college that set the precedent for what a college is supposed to be like.
    Bang for the buck

    Because William and Mary is a public university it isn't as expensive as most other schools. Although it still isn't cheap, William and Mary is consistently ranked among the best schools for the cost.
    Tips for prospective students

    Fill out all that is asked for on the application. NOT just what is required. If you really want to attend, you can even respond to the joint degree program application that William and Mary offers in conjunction with St. Andrews University in Scotland. The program looks great and with a three thousand word essay you can definitely tell the admissions staff much more about you than they can read from a five hundred word essay. I did just that and even though my class rank and my GPA was much lower than the average I was still admitted and I honestly believe it was because of the heart and soul I poured into my essays.
    Great for these types of students

    I am not quite sure what the student body is like at William and Mary quite yet but I know that the students are very involved with their coursework and their prospective careers. If you are smart and bold and love a genuine college atmosphere then why not apply!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Emily from Longwood, FL

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I have learned so much about so many different subjects. I always have the upper hand in trivia games. But seriously you learn so much from passionate professors.
    Am enjoying being here

    William and Mary is the school for those kids in high school who performed well academically but maybe a little socially awkward. At W&M we all embrace our inner nerds and have fun. I've met some of the best people and had so much fun exploring Williamsburg and the campus itself.
    Bang for the buck

    It's a great deal for in-state students. For out-of-state students it is expensive but for the education you are going to get, worth it. William and Mary is also really great about giving financial aid to those who need it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to work hard and learn a lot.
    You will make great friends and there is a club for everyone.
    Take advantage of on campus events, they're actually cool.
    The saying on campus is One Tribe, One Family and it is the absolute truth.
    Great for these types of students

    Determined students who may not have the best social skills.
    Down to Earth students who are willing to learn about different cultures, try new things and make the most out of life.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Jessie from Sterling, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    William and Mary professors are some of the most intelligent people I have ever met. The course material is challenging but not impossible, and professors are always willing to help. W&M offers classes on an incredibly wide variety of topics, and though the required GERs are not always everyone's favorites you really do learn about a lot of things you might not have otherwise.
    Am enjoying being here

    The student body is great - they're kind of nerdy and awkward, but chances are if you chose W&M you have a side like that too. Sometimes things get really stressful, of course, but everyone gets the feeling of being stressed out together and people are generally helpful.
    Bang for the buck

    While tuition is going up due to state cuts, W&M is still an incredible value when you consider all of the opportunities. The science departments in particular concentrate heavily on undergraduate research, and the tuition exchange for study abroad students is an exceptional value for in-state students. It also has a lovely campus and atmosphere that makes William and Mary feel like home.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be creative in your supplement, but be forewarned that lots of people submit collages and things like that. Also, make sure you bring rainboots and an umbrella, because the 'burg is a bit of a swamp at times.
    Great for these types of students

    Intelligent, somewhat shy, interested in learning for the sake of knowledge.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Dallas from Franklin, VA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The College of William and Mary was my first-choice college, mainly because of the quality of it's education and it has an AMAZING Pre-Medical program. The students are passionate about learning, and the professors are all very knowledgeable. I can't wait to start this August! On a side note, W&M is one of the original Public Ivies
    Will enjoy being here

    At the Day for Admitted Students (DFAS), I was shocked by how nice the current students were. Students who weren't even helping out with DFAS would randomly strike up a conversation with you, and they were all very pleasant. Plus, everyone was willing to help out the thousands of admitted students who were wandering the campus with know clue where they were going.
    Bang for the buck

    Slightly more expensive than other public colleges in Virginia, but it's worth it. However, it is certainly one of the best deals for in-state students.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definitely fill out the optional submission section, it makes you stand out much more. Also, be sure that you have really good SAT scores, and GPA, your chances of being excepted with a 3.0 GPA and a 1,600 combined SAT score on all sections are slim to none.
    Great for these types of students

    Science and Art majors, anyone interested in Pre-Med, and of course, the people that were considered over-achievers in high school.

  • A Student at the College

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The College of William & Mary is a great college with an incredible student atmosphere. The College offers a plethora of clubs and other opportunities to meet people and do fun things. Finally, the College is filled with many traditions and history stretching back all the way to 1693.
    Academic Rigor

    As most people discover, college academics typically are harder then high school academics. William & Mary is no exception; the College prides itself on giving out massive quantities of homework and other assignments. Essentially, William & Mary is one of the most challenging College's in the nation when it comes to work in and out of the classroom. However, it does pay off because a degree from William & Mary is worth more than degrees from many other universities. Basically, be prepared to work because William & Mary loves making the students do massive quantities of work.
    Dorm Life

    When it comes to dorm living, your experience will be defined by where you live. The freshmen dorms leave something to be desired. The Botetourt Complex consists of some of the oldest dorms on campus and they are showing their age. Furthermore, Yates Hall is also showing its age, but it is a step up from the Botetourt Complex. However, Barrett, Brown, Jefferson, Hunt, and Dupont are all decent dorms freshmen can be assigned to. The other dorms range from great (Jamestown, Randolph Complex, Tribe Square) to decent (Ludwell, Chandler, Landrum) to sketchy (the Units). All in all, dorm life can be a great experience at the College and if you live in one of the older dorms; it can be a very interesting experience.
    Food and Dining

    The food and dining at the College of William & Mary is just like dining at almost every other University in the country: adequate. The food is straight up cafeteria food, which leaves a lot to be desired. However, the college deli's and WaWa are right across from Zable Stadium and offer a refreshing break from the cafeteria food.
    What to do for fun

    For fun, I recommend joining a club or some other on campus organization. These are great ways to meet people who have similar interests as you. Doing this will make your experience at William & Mary much more enjoyable.

    Also, Colonial Williamsburg is right across the street from the College and if you want you go in and enjoy everything CW has to offer.
    Bang for the buck

    It's William & Mary: you get a great bang for your buck. A degree from the College of William & Mary means that you had the ability to put in tons of effort to earn that degree. Degrees at William & Mary are earned, not given.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The best tradition is blowout; on the last day of classes, most of the student body will go to the Sunken Gardens and have a huge party.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are so many clubs, activities and other ways to get involved that you will only have yourself to blame if you leave William & Mary without having done from awesome things.
    Campus Safety

    It is a very safe and secure campus. The William & Mary police do a great job making sure the campus remains a safe place.

  • Tribe Love

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    This place is amazing because you CAN make a name for yourself here and the staff truly cares. Not just the professors or the College President, but everyone down to the kind people that work at the cafeterias. The sense of community here is outstanding.
    Tips for prospective students

    -Buy textbooks, do not rent. You spend much less in the long-run.
    -Before registration, pick 3 or 4 back-ups for each class. It's annoying, but necessary. You're probably not going to get every class you want.
    -BRING RAINBOOTS! When it rains in Williamsburg, it floods.
    -In most cases it's best to go random when picking roommates. Most people end up becoming very close to their roommates and the ones who roomed with people they already know are more likely to butt heads and have problems.
    Academic Rigor

    With proper time management, you will not have too many problems at this school. It can be distracting being surrounded by friends 24/7, and there will be times when you just have to tell your friends you can't hang out for a couple of days. But contrary to popular belief, we do NOT spend all of our days in the library! Most people I know don't even like going to the library. We're a smart bunch, but we have social lives, too.
    Dorm Life

    I lived in Jefferson this past year, and it was really nice. My hall was full of awesome girls and we all became extremely close. Most dorms are decent. The worst freshman dorms are in the Botetourt complex and the worst upperclassmen dorms are called the Units. In the Botetourt complex, however, everyone becomes friends with each other and manages to make it enjoyable. At least, that's what I've heard. Upperclassmen dorms are less tight knit. But because Williamsburg is not a booming city and there isn't much of a night life, you learn how to have fun hanging out in your dorm and visiting your friends in theirs.
    Food and Dining

    I'm not a huge fan of the food here, but they're making improvements. Unfortunately, starting with my class (2015) they're requiring we have meal plans all 4 years. This sucks, but they're promising to use our money to make necessary improvements. As a vegetarian, there aren't many options for me here, but I make it through.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's a club for EVERYONE here.
    Campus Safety

    You never feel unsafe on campus. Needless to say, you should always be cautious, but safety is not an issue here.

  • Michelle from Fairfax, VA

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    While this is no doubt an academically challenging university, it also has a warm environment and supportive community to help students with personal growth. The sense of community here is hard to miss and has provided me with the best friends, professors, peers, opportunities and the best four years of my life! I am grateful to have been able to develop myself in so many different channels while at William and Mary, and incredibly grateful for my time there.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make use of your time and enjoy the gorgeous historic campus! Be sure to keep in mind that while college is about an education, it is also about personal and emotional growth. Don't forget to have fun and study! Its about a balance.
    Academic Rigor

    The professors will challenge you and push you to think in new ways, those are the best classes.
    Dorm Life

    Everyone is very quirky and can be somewhat awkward but its hard to find bad people on this campus. The passion people have for life is incredible. You will not find as many cookie cutter types here who just do what they do to get by.
    Food and Dining

    Food has become much better over the years, there has also been more vegan and vegetarian options available now compared to before.
    What to do for fun

    Sports, parties, bars (not many), hiking, whatever you want.
    Bang for the buck

    Incredible value for top quality school.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    We have lots...we are a old school and have tons of traditions. The most famous and I guess the most popular are Blow Out and Triathlon. Blow out is the last day of school where everyone or most people drink and go to class or during class. Its just a fun way to celebrate the end of the year. There is also moon bounces and lots of other celebrations around in case you aren't a drinker or just want to watch others. Triathlon is when we jump the governor's palace wall, streak the sunken gardens then swim the crim dell.
    Great for these types of students

    Quirky, funny, nice and not worried about conventionality.
    Clubs and Activities

    Lots to do from the typical ethnic groups to things like jiu jitsu and scuba diving.
    Greek Life

    Our Greeks are way nicer than others at bigger schools. You will never not be welcomed into a frat party for not knowing enough brothers.
    Campus Safety

    Nothing but old people, golfers, and tourists in addition to students, if you can outrun a baby or retiree, you are fine.

  • Kiara from Norfolk, VA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    This is an amazing five star college with so much to offer. Every time I visit the campus, I fall in love with it over and over!
    Tips for prospective students

    When they say be yourself, do it! This college seriously appreciates genuine people with a natural thirst for knowledge and fun.
    Academic Rigor

    I sat in on lectures and have spoken to many students and professors. W&M is one of the best academically challenging schools in the country.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are the perfect breeding ground for bonding and thrilling hijinks. It is like living with hundreds of your brothers and sisters. Anthing can happen!
    Food and Dining

    Food is delicious, and offers plenty of variety.
    What to do for fun

    Fun can be found anywhere. Don't let the colonial setting fool you.

  • Kayla from Newport News, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    William and Mary is a very rigorous college, but it provides the assistance that the students may need. William and Mary also has a very strong and diverse community. All feel at home when they come to William and Mary.
    Tips for prospective students

    William and Mary is very good at helping its prospective students. They have students and faculty tell the students just how vigorous the college can be and how to handle it.
    What to do for fun

    There are not very many dance parties for those that are not involved in Greek Life here at the College. It seems that most of the parties are geared towards the Greeks. But different organizations have parties sometimes and there are always cultural events here that are fun to go to.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The Triathlon is something students here do. You have to jump the Governor's Wall in Colonial Williamsburg, streak the Sunken Gardens and lastly, swim the Crim Dell, which is a pond that is not very clean.
    Great for these types of students

    Those who are ready for the academic rigor and those who are very friendly.
    Greek Life

    Very good, The Greeks seem like they have a lot of fun and there are many options that one could join.

  • Xiaorui from Williamsburg, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    William &Mary fufills one's potential.
    William &Mary provides a diversed campus environment.
    William &Mary helps students achieve their dreams.
    Tips for prospective students

    Pay attention in class.
    Complete homeworks.
    Ask professors questions.
    Academic Rigor

    5 star difficulty.
    Most tests and quizzes are not multiple choice questions, so that means more works to do well.
    Dorm Life

    Everyone's friendly. You will feel you belong to this big family.
    Food and Dining

    Not very good. I hope they increase food varieties and lower the prices.
    What to do for fun

    There are many clubs and organizatons that provide opportunities as well as fun.
    Bang for the buck

    When registering for classes, you have to be quick or someone else will get the very last spot available. This is especially true for freshmen.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students who love to study and who is determined to do well.

  • Alexandria from Newport News, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    William & Mary is prided on tradition. The college takes great joy in academic excellence. The college is a tight knit family.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are into tradition, making bonds, and committed to academic excellence this school is for you.
    Academic Rigor

    We take pride in being a public ivy
    Dorm Life

    Freshman Dorms leave a lot to be desired.
    Food and Dining

    Cooking for yourself isn't a bad option, the dinning is sub-par at times.
    What to do for fun

    Colonial Williamsburg, the outlets, thrifting, etc.
    Bang for the buck

    We're awesome
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The triathalon you will find out when you get here.
    Great for these types of students

    Studious
    Clubs and Activities

    Many diverse groups
    Greek Life

    Great, if interested check it out.
    Campus Safety

    Excellent

  • Yasmine from WILLIAMSBURG, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The College of William and Mary provides a very peaceful, scenic, area in which students can relax and complete assignments. The people here, faculty and students, are very warm-hearted and welcome all to their community. I love that the faculty are willing to meet with a student at reasonable times to help them.
    Tips for prospective students

    Join, join, and join. Join as much clubs that interest you. I say this because they will help you to get to know new people and will also provide you with something to put on your resume.
    Academic Rigor

    Depending on what type of person you are, the academics here are doable. If you tend to procrastinate, you might want to procrastinate less because the work load is heavy but definitely spread apart. I also recommend you don't stress over everything too much because you will drive yourself crazy; yes, you might not get an A all the time but that is not a life or death matter. Enjoy you're college career and be responsible.
    Dorm Life

    Everything at this school is what you make of it. If you start off being awkward and very pessimistic, you will not have a good dorm life. You have to remember that not everyone in your dorm knows each other; everyone's new too! After you conquer that phase, you'll really feel like you're going home every day.
    Food and Dining

    Food here is generally healthy and available. My favorite part of dining are dining dollars, basically free money you can use to purchase Domino's Pizza and other cool things at school.
    What to do for fun

    Clubs and sight seeing. I am an outdoors person so the scenery here is great. If you're into sports and not an athlete they have great clubs for that. William and Mary basically has a club for everything so you'll always have something to do.
    Bang for the buck

    Tip: Go to every class. You or your parents are paying for tuition so you skipping class is you giving away free money. This school is great but the reputation from the name is even better.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Lake Matoka- best place to chill and be one with nature. If you're feeling stressed from classes or people, go to the lake and kayak or ride a canoe. It's one of the best non-secret but could be secret places.
    Great for these types of students

    People who love to learn will love it here.
    People who like anything Sci-Fi.. love it here.
    People who have a brain will love it here.
    Clubs and Activities

    Honestly, they are everywhere. They're interactive and the students are very helpful.
    Greek Life

    Honestly, don't know about the system but my friends tell me its great. I have 3 friends in the Greek life and they love it.
    Campus Safety

    Very quiet area and the towns people are very kind. Not much to be afraid of or worry about but you can never be too sure of any area so precaution anywhere is always a must.

  • Joshua from Lorton, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Josh from Herndon, VA

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    Amazing
    Will enjoy being here

    All the time
    Bang for the buck

    Public ivy, best price for the best education.

  • Rachel

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The classes are extremely difficult, but the professors are more than willing to help.
    Am enjoying being here

    I definitely like it a lot more than I thought it would. The orientation groups are the people on your hall, not just a bunch of random strangers, so you get to know the people you're living with pretty well. Everyone I've met is really nice. The biggest downside is the extremely limited amount of washers/dryers - about 2 of each per 80 freshmen.
    Bang for the buck

    Again, difficult classes, but it's so worth it. The only classes taught by TAs are the labs, so it's not a graduate student with zero teaching experience giving the lectures.
    Tips for prospective students

    Dual-enroll as much as you can to get the universal requirements out of the way; because of the way registration is set up, it's unlikely you'll get them all done before your junior year at the earliest. Have fun with the essay, don't make it dry and boring.
    Great for these types of students

    People who don't like big schools, are shy, and want to be challenged.

  • Matt from Concord, NC

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    The campus and the town of Williamsburg is absolutely amazing!

  • Stephan from Wayne, NJ

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Tips for prospective students

    If you're the compulsive kind who needs to know when information about your admission will come out, be warned. WM only gives out multi-week time frames at best. Somewhat frustrating.

  • Brittany from Chesapeake, VA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors at this school are super friendly, and actually interested in how well you do.
    Am enjoying being here

    Even though it seems like a cliche, the campus really is beautiful here and everyone is super nice and friendly.
    Bang for the buck

    The tuition is fairly priced considering the prestige of the school and the great opportunities offered here.