Miami University-Oxford
Oxford, OH, USA

Reviews

Miami University-Oxford

Samantha from Erlanger, KY

a current student here
35 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Several teachers teach from the course textbook, but also draw from their own experiences and other media/texts. Miami gives a well-rounded education because they stress that non academic activities are important, too. Learning comes from the classroom, but more importantly, I believe, outside of the classroom. There are many lectures, performances, art shows each week to further the education you can get from Miami.
Am enjoying being here
I am on the fence about my experiences at Miami. I think Miami is an exceptional school. I let myself get away from getting involved on campus for my entire freshman year. I wasn't involved in much and I spent most of my free time being bored. There are hundreds of clubs and organizations that students can join, it's just finding the right group that is key. If I would have joined the groups that I considered joining my first year experience would have been much more enjoyable.
Bang for the buck
Prices at Miami seem fairly reasonable in terms of tuition. The bookstores' merchandise is overpriced. Shows and performances are at no cost or at a low price. Sports' events are free to students. On-campus restaurants are pricey but can be paid for with meal plan.
Tips for prospective students
1. Free time can get boring after a few weeks, there is little to do if you're not into partying.
2. Make sure you'll use your book before you buy it (often, you don't need to purchase books for the first couple of days). I've bought a few books in the past that I never needed. If you do buy it and decide you don't need it, return it within a week and you'll get a better price than you would if you waited. Also, make sure you get the correct edition.
3. Come early on move-in day, it gets hectic later in the day. Save your trip to Wal-Mart until the day after move-in because that gets very busy as well.
4. Don't forget an umbrella, rainboots, and snowboots.
5. You have to live on campus for the first 2 years, so be prepared to live in a dorm for that long. Becoming an RA (resident assistant) is a great idea for sophomores since you're there anyway, might as well make some money and the job isn't too demanding.
6. Get involved.
Great for these types of students
Athletes : Miami is highly school-spirited, it seems as though everyone goes to athletic events to cheer on their team.
Students who plan to go to graduate school : Miami is a highly respected and prestigious university, graduate school admissions are often impressed. Miami also has a wonderful graduate program itself.
Students who would like to join a sorority or fraternity : Greek life is big at Miami, there are several options for males and females.
Christians : There are many Christian organizations including Christian sororities, there are 2 Churches on campus and a few that are in walking distance.

Demitrios from Chicago, IL

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
In my experience, the professors at Miami are passionate about their topics and really want the students to do well. Professors are readily available outside of class and eager to help the student learn. Students are heavily encouraged to be more than just students. Although the curriculum is challenging, it opened my mind to new ideas, concepts, and perspectives.
Am enjoying being here
The students here are very friendly, fun, and easy to get along with. There are a wide range of students activities and clubs, so it is easy to find something that caters to your interests. Oxford is a small town setting, but it is an ideal college town, if that is what you are looking for. The campus itself is very beautiful.
Bang for the buck
As an out-of-state student, the tuition was a little steeper than I would have liked, but it is not ridiculously expensive. In-state tuition is more affordable. As far as financial aid is concerned, I would classify Miami as middle of the pack.
Tips for prospective students
1. Bringing a bike might be a good idea as it makes going uptown or even traveling to class more manageable.
2. Get involved early on--there are numerous organizations and clubs and it is a great way to meet people.
3. Explore the beautiful and scenic Ohio landscape surrounding the campus.
4. Don't expect a lot from the town--the university is the town.
Great for these types of students
Students here are strikingly similar. There is a reason Miami is labeled J. Crew U. Almost all are upper-middle class and affluent, and a high percentage of the student population is caucasian. However, students are typically well-rounded, generally show support for Miami athletics, friendly and open-minded. I think anyone could fit in here.

Mike from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here have great qualifications to be teaching, and prove it by helping me learn a lot. There have been many situations where i was not certain what exactly I was supposed to be learning, but the professor would always take the time to teach me, and help me understand what I actually needed to be learning.
Am enjoying being here
Miami serves as an excellent place to form social bonds, and also creates an atmosphere where school isn't really that bad. While some kids may have an attitude where they think they are better than others, most of the students here are very friendly and make being here enjoyable. Also, the smaller campus makes it easy to meet a lot of new people which is very important to enjoy being in college.
Bang for the buck
Miami certainly has a big bang for the buck. Some may complain about a higher tuition, but you really are getting what you pay for. Being apart of the business portion of Miami, I am given the opportunity to be looked at first for career recruitment due to Miami's high reputation. Like some people say, Miami is the Ivy league public school. You are required to take classes with all back grounds in order to make you a well rounded, knowledgeable citizen. Also, your money is going towards great living conditions, and the food is great. On top of that, the amount of extracurricular activities really provides even more bang for Miami. Miami really does have a big bang for the buck.
Tips for prospective students
I would suggest that prospective students make sure they practice good study habits. Coming into college most grades are only tests and quizzes so you really have to make sure you can study correctly.
Also, I would recommend saving up as much money as possible so you have one less thing to stress about, and possibly get into an argument about with the parents. This problem can also be solved by getting an on-campus job, which I highly recommend.
Great for these types of students
Miami is great for people who love to do sports and other extracurricular activities. As I said before there are endless opportunities to join club sports, varsity sports, or any other activity you could possibly think of.
Maimi is also a good fit for hard working students. Miami offers classes that really challenge you if you want them to. On the other hand there are always easier classes to take if you are a little intimidated by the experience.
Social people will really find a home at Miami. With all the sororities and fraternities on campus it is easy to meet new people and get in with a large group. If you don't like that kind of atmosphere there are many other opportunities to be social with your fellow peers.

Emily from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This beautiful campus has something for everyone. There are thousands of clubs and activities and even though we may not look diverse, the range of personalities is unlike any other. The medium class class is the best of both worlds; not overwhelmingly large and you make great relationships with your peers.
Tips for prospective students
1. Apply for the Bridges Program (it gives you some extra scholarship money)
2. Apply early (its less stressful to know earlier if you are a future Redhawk)
3. If you decide to join us, sign up for the free, early move in program. You will meet people living in your hall and its a fantastic program.
Academic Rigor
We take classes seriously and our professors are very passionate about their classes. that being said, if you try your best and focus on learning and growing as a person, the grades will follow.
Dorm Life
There are some beautiful renovated dorms and a few older ones. Honestly, a dorm room is pretty standard wherever you go. We have quiet hours, great RA's and interesting people who fill the halls.
Food and Dining
Awesome food. Period. There are so many options from deluxe design your own burgers to a allergy free and gluten free stations.
What to do for fun
There is something for everyone. Miami is known to be a party school however, if that's not for you do not worry. Exploring Uptown with friends to shop and eat is one of my favorite things to do. Miami also hosts a program that prepares FREE activities for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. It ranges from bringing in musicians, free food, concerts, popular movies that just came out of theaters, and so much more. I am so glad that Miami has this option as I haven't heard of anything like it any where else.
Bang for the buck
Its an in state and public school. You can sleep easy knowing that your taxpayer money is partially funding your experience at Miami.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
DON'T STEP ON THE SEAL. But if you do, rub the turtle heads on the sundial to ensure you wont fail your next exam. Also, find your soul mate and kiss them at midnight under the Upham arch and you will get married.
aside from traditions, there are some beautiful hiking trails behind western campus.
Great for these types of students
Any student can make a home here. Plain and simple.
Clubs and Activities
TONS of activities. if there isn't a club you like, you can easily create your own.
Greek Life
Only about 30% of the school is involved in Greek life. I'm sure your surprised. It seems like more are since the ones who are involved love it.
Campus Safety
We have an awesome police force and theirs lots of light in the evening hours. I feel very safe and at peace walking alone as a women at night.

Lauryn from WI

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Tips for prospective students
1. Don't wear a lanyard with your ID on it.
2. Wait until the class starts to buy books- the bookstore website doesn't always offer the right ones, you don't always need them, or you might end up dropping the class and have a totally useless book.
3. At the end of each semester, lots of people will be giving away their unused stuff or selling books for cheap. Take advantage!
4. Go to MegaFair and get involved in at least one activity. However, this isn't high school- you can't be involved in every club. Pick a couple things you love and don't worry about resume builders.
Academic Rigor
As a Miami student, you're held to a high standard of learning. You have to work outside of class if you want to pass. However, the professors are typically great and very willing to work with you. Go to office hours if you need help!
Dorm Life
The dorms aren't the greatest unless they're brand-new, but people are pretty respectful. Try to bond with your roomie so that it's not awkward to live with them. With the dorms, you get what you pay for- so Heritage Commons will be nicer than, say, Scott or Dodds, but you're going to have to pay more. Make sure you take care not to damage your room or furniture, cause you will get fined.
Food and Dining
The food on-campus is actually pretty good- Miami has your typical college dining halls, but they also have restaurant-style places to get food. Your meal plan rolls over, so unless you eat a ton, you don't have to add all that much after your first semester. There's a couple market-style places where you can use your meal plan to buy groceries.
Food uptown is decent. There's plenty of cheap pizza places, which will become a staple of your new college-student diet. There's also lots of dessert! Be aware of which places will deliver and which won't- and be prepared to wait at least half an hour in line if you feel like getting Chipotle.
What to do for fun
Go to hockey games. Go uptown and paint pottery, or go dancing at Brick or Decibel. Get ice cream. Go see Sketched Out, the improv comedy group. There's usually a show or a sport every weekend. Don't worry too much about being bored.
Clubs and Activities
Miami has just about every club you can think of and then a couple you can't. Go to MegaFair to get acquainted and get involved!

Andrew from Lima, OH

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
While at Miami, I have learned so much, both about myself and about the world in general. Previously I had little to no experience with being on my own, and Oxford's college-town environment is perfect for learning and growing. Everything is very personal and familiar, but without being boring or restricting. In addition, my professors know their subject matter well and are eager to help me when I come to them after class or during office hours. They genuinely want to be here and want to teach, so they are better able to make the classes enjoyable. Their enthusiasm spreads to students and makes for an excellent atmosphere.
Am enjoying being here
Miami is both challenging and fun. In my Statistics class, I was pushed nearly to breaking point every morning. I think my professor joking around and making the class lighter and more student-friendly was the only thing that brought me back each day. There are also many enjoyable, but still stimulating courses that students can take outside of their field of study. I took a social dance class and loved every minute of it. I've always wanted to learn ballroom dancing, and Miami gave me the perfect opportunity. There are countless clubs, organizations, sports, and electives for students trying to find their niche. Whether your passion is people, places, things, or thoughts, you will be able to find your place here at Miami. You may have to seek a little, though.
Bang for the buck
Miami isn't cheap, but it's also not one of the most expensive schools on the market. It's a public institution. And considering how prestigious Miami is - arguably the best public university in the state of Ohio - the experience is well worth the expense. Home sporting events are free to Miami students, which is invaluable by itself during hockey season; free or inexpensive events are held frequently, including concerts, lectures, and events held by the Residence Hall Association; and, although some of the dining options can get pricey, they are covered by your meal plan. Also, any credit that's left on the meal plan at the end of the year (as long as you're not a senior) is put onto your MUlaa account, which can be put toward text books, laundry, or other on-campus expenses.
Tips for prospective students
1. When scheduling classes, don't make any assumptions or take anything for granted. Check the availability of classes. Also, the grade distributions from past semesters can be found on the Miami web site.
2. There may be times when a professor will not use a textbook at all in a course. Waiting a couple of days before buying books, or asking a professor can save you money that would otherwise be wasted on a 500 page paperweight.
3. If you have spare time, feel free to join a club. But if you don't, DON'T! There are a lot of great opportunities for networking and meeting people here at Miami, but they will be around every semester. Meeting people is inevitable. You won't have to work too hard at it. Just be friendly and keep an open mind.
4. Go to office hours if you need help. And don't be afraid to look clueless. Better now than at Finals. Sometimes you just need to say, I'm completely lost. Can you go over this again?.
5. Try to relax! Half of my problem was that I never gave my brain a chance to slow down. If you get yourself too worked up, you can have trouble sleeping or even make yourself sick. Then you'll be even more behind. It's a cycle. Break it!
Great for these types of students
Confident: There are a ton of networking possibilities and student-run organizations. Active students can really branch out here if they're interested. Student government, study abroad, Greek life, and internships are only the beginning.
Shy: Miami is a great place to grow and develop as a person. You can really start to come out of your shell without going hog wild. Don't let the party scene scare you off. There are a number of ways you can meet people and have fun without taking a giant leap outside of your comfort zone.
Athletic: Redhawk sports are always a big deal. Whether you're interested in club sports or intramural sports, there is something for everyone. The Rec is amazing, and Goggin Ice Center has a lot to offer.
Christian: There are several Christian groups and Bible studies that meet on campus. There are churches on and off of campus as well. I didn't get involved in Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) until later in the semester, but I'm glad that I did. I found that people I already had met in several of my classes were active in Cru. There are events almost every day of the week and it's not overwhelming for those who are just trying it on for size.

Jeremy from Toledo, OH

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Miami is an amazing place to go to school, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my years here. The campus is stunning, the academics are great, and the people are fun. I have never met so many people who study so hard during the week and have so much fun on the weekend.
Tips for prospective students
My best advice is to come with as open a mind as you can. Miami gets the image of being preppy and, despite that being pretty true, you can find people you like anywhere. You know those stupid ice breakers and "fun RA-sponsored dorm activities?" Go to them. They're goofy and lame but you meet a whole lotta people. I am entering my senior year and most of my best friends are those I met my first week of college.
Academic Rigor
This largely depends on your major, so I'm going to speak from a business perspective. The classes can be difficult, but the professors are one of a kind. Miami is ranked as the top school in the country for undergraduate teaching and it shows. They say "teaching is for those who couldn't make it in the industry," but that simply doesn't apply at Miami. Just about every professor I have had either works or has worked in their respective industry. I mean, the CEO of Cincinnati-based, Fortune 500-company Cintas drives to Miami -- his alma mater -- after work to teach classes at night. That's pretty cool.
Dorm Life
Miami requires you to live in a dorm for your first two years as opposed to just one, but that does not have to be a bad thing. You'll meet people from just about everywhere.

Every dorm is nice, and the new ones are just amazing. Any dorm that is older either has been or is in the process of being renovated.
Food and Dining
There are a ton of options on campus. Western Commons, located on Western Campus, is one of the top-35 dining halls in the country. Compared to most other schools, we eat like royalty.
What to do for fun
Miami likes to work hard and play harder. That does not mean, however, that the bars are the only places to go. There is a program called "Late Night Miami" that puts on a ton of events for students. These range anywhere from movies and stand-up shows to hosting exotic petting zoos and comedians.

Both Miami and the local bars are good at attracting big-name bands, comedians, and speakers Since I've been here, we've had All-American Rejects, B.o.B, Timeflies, Aziz Ansari, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar show up in Oxford.
Bang for the buck
As with any school, it's what you make of it. There are so many cool people around -- all it takes it stepping out of your room and talking to them. The academics are great and the campus is beautiful. The Miami slogan of "To think that in such a place, I led such a life" rings true to just about every senior too depressed to leave Oxford.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Miami is known for having a very attractive student body, and therefore has an unusually high percentage of students who find their future spouse while at school. The tradition goes that kissing your loved one under the Upham Arch at midnight fates you to be married.

Also: Don't step on the seal! You'll fail your next exam.
Great for these types of students
Miami is a great place for people very dedicated to their studies, and it doesn't hurt to be outgoing. People are so driven here, and in turn you feel called to push yourself to do your best.
Clubs and Activities
Broomball and video games to quidditch and weight lifting. Want to start a club? Miami will help fund it.
Greek Life
I believe the average student body is 15 percent Greek. Miami's is 40. You'll know so many people in fraternities and sororities it's crazy, but deciding not to join definitely won't kill your social life.
Campus Safety
Miami is in a small town and is therefore pretty safe, but it has had its share of issues in recent years. Drinking seems to be the main culprit. Other than that, it's not like the campus is any less safe than others.

Hannah from N Canton, OH

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This is an incredible institution. No one is a number at Miami, all professors (yes, PROFESSORS!) take their student's education as a priority. Classrooms are interactive, and learning is not limited by lecture based teaching. Educators do not stand for laziness. If you're at MU, you're here to learn.
Am enjoying being here
Miami is a beautiful and friendly place. Even though it is a larger school, a community connection is made at Miami because of Living-Learning communities, and the outgoing students. I've made really good friends through classes, and we enjoy hanging out on the weekends, eating toasted rolls, and eating tuffy's ice cream. Miami is a magical place.
Bang for the buck
It's worth it. What matters at miami is YOUR education. Why do you go to school? To learn. (Or that's why you're suppose to attend institutions of higher learning.) Students are offered a great range of classes per semester, and many valuable resources. I probably cannot count how many advisors I have on one hand! (And the food is fantastic.)
Tips for prospective students
If possible, attend an overnighter. It's the best way to judge the climate of a school. Visit with teachers, department heads, etc, but more importantly, talk to students (without faculty in hearing range). Imagine yourself there. Could you sit in King Library? Would you enjoy doing your homework outside, can you see yourself standing in line for an intense hockey game?

And, always keep your education in mind. What are your goals? And what resources are available to you to achieve them.
Great for these types of students
Anyone who loves to learn, and can take a challenge. Miami is often stereotyped as J-Crew U!, sperry's, northface, and Greek Life. However this is not true. (but it is a stereotype for a reason.) Although there is a prominent Greek Life, it does not interfere with other students, and rush does not commence until second semester. (So don't fear.)

But Miami is definitely a place to achieve. If you wish to get a degree, go online. Don't waste time here, because the faculty and students here CARE.

Jennifer from Cincinnati, OH

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Miami University not only helps one to learn a lot academically but helps also in learning essential life skills. Besides the excellent academic curriculum Miami University also helps its students with skills such as time management and creating a resume. Miami teaches one to work in many different environments with many different people. I have personally learned how to efficiently use my free time and have conquered the art of studying.
Am enjoying being here
I most certainly enjoy being on Miami University's campus. From the beautiful flowers and architecture to the friends and faculty, Miami offers so many things to enjoy. The University has facilities that many schools would dream of having, like its spacious swimming pool and ice skating rink. Miami University is also close to Uptown, which is an area filled with many shops and restaurants. Uptown is constantly filled with students enjoying its shops and restaurants. The dorm rooms are not as small as I've seen at other Universities. With a little TLC they feel just like home. The dorms and halls are kept exceptionally clean by an exceptional cleaning staff. What I most enjoy about Miami is the friends that I have made. Many people see Miami as a very preppy, predominately white school. Although much of that could be true when one truely looks into the University and meets people they would realize that even though many students might dress or look similarly, one will still find an exceptional array of different personalities all over the campus. My group of friends holds an array of different skin tones, cultural back grounds and personalities. My closest friend at the University is from Guatemala. This just goes to shoe that Miami has more to offer than what is seen on the surface and that is why I enjoy being there.
Bang for the buck
Miami has so many facilities such as its ice skating rink, pool, and its gym. Students also get free admission to events in those facilities, not to mention the delicious dishes prepared for students right here on campus. There are so many things offered that the tuition of the university is often shocking. When all those facilities are factored into the tuition it is often wondered how the price could be so low. It is most definitely a bang for the buck.
Tips for prospective students
Thinking about going to Miami? You won't want to pass up the opportunity. The administration and staff are so kind and welcoming. If you do bring a bicycle (I have one and find it very handy) make sure to lock it securely no matter what. They are often preyed on by the bikeless. Also the food is delicious, but don't get carried away or you won't fit your pants by second semester. Get involved to meet people who are interested in the same things you are. Its a great way to do things you love and make long lasting friendships.
Great for these types of students
Miami has everything anyone could ask for. I am involved in so many different things. I'm involved with Miami's radio station as well as theatre and choir. This coming semester I have even decided to participate in Tae Kwon Doh. There is so much to get involved any student could potentially like the university.

courtney from fairborn, oh

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
miami university is a beautiful campus full of amazing professors with tons of opportunities. although it may not seem like a good fit for someone who doesn't fit into the miami stereotype, everyone can find their place. there are countless ways to get involved and countless paths to follow.
Tips for prospective students
first and foremost - try out tons of things. get involved in activities, go to mega fair, go take classes at the rec, join clubs, go to hall events, look into studying abroad. there are endless opportunities to have an amazing college experience at miami, you just have to get involved on campus and find what you love.
Academic Rigor
as a mechanical engineering major, most of my classes are more difficult than other students at miami. most of my classes are quite challenging but professors are always willing to help.
Dorm Life
as a resident assistant, i know firsthand how many amazing opportunities the office of residence life provides to first and second year students. while living on campus, you will have a ton of opportunities to interact with others in your dorm. we offer multiple activities for residents every single week so there's always a fun way to enjoy your weekdays and weekends.
Food and Dining
miami has a lot of options for dining halls, there are a few buffets, a few "grab and go" locations, and even an on-campus grocery store. my only complaint is that there aren't enough healthy options other than the salad bars.
What to do for fun
there are always fun activities on campus like dorm cookouts, on-campus carnivals, late night movies at the student center, hockey games, ice-skating at goggin, and my personal favorite - festivals uptown that are centered around hispanic or asian food and culture.
Bang for the buck
con: miami is one of the most expensive public schools you'll come across, especially for out of state students

pro: miami gives out a ton of merit-based scholarships. in fact, many people at miami (including myself) are on full academic scholarship. the whole reason i chose this school was because it was the cheapest place for me to go out of all the schools to which i applied.

con: even with scholarships, miami has a lot of annoying fees including student center fees, course fees, dining fees, and expensive housing.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
traditions: kissing someone under upham arch at midnight, never walk on the seal, rubbing the turtle heads
locations: western campus is absolutely gorgeous. it used to be a separate college and is now home to a few dorms, a very old church, an art museum, and some very beautiful scenery. it feels completely separate from the rest of campus.
Great for these types of students
i believe that anyone can feel at home at miami!
Clubs and Activities
there are so many clubs and activities; truly something for everyone! whether its an intramural sport, academic club, volunteering organization, social change group, or literally anything else you're interested in - miami has it.
Greek Life
greek life is huge at miami. if you're interested in, there are lots of chapters to choose from for men and women and in fact, many sororities and fraternities were founded at miami.
Campus Safety
miami and the surrounding areas of oxford are constantly patrolled by miami university campus police, oxford police, and butler county police. campus police is always a call away and will come within a couple minutes for any reason. there are also emergency call stations all over campus in residential and academic areas.