The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL, USA

Reviews

The University of Alabama

Brittney from Birmingham, AL

a current student here
57 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This college is great for hands-on experience and in class learning. The teachers really care and are very knowledgeable in the area they teach. I have been able to take advantage of my teachers' office hours and really get to know them. I learned that they care about the progress their students make and how they are enjoying college. It is not simply about book smarts, teachers teach professional skills and life lessons. My first-year experience was so amazing, I would not have spent it anywhere else, because despite everything I learned so much and I am better because of it!
Am enjoying being here
The social and cultural experience is priceless. I love being at this University with so many wonderful people. During my first year, I lived on campus and was able to meet some of the people in my dorm and develop life-long friendships that are so special and it made me feel the family type atmosphere that I missed being away from home. Although the University is a large one, this negative in some peoples' minds is a positive in my mind because you get to meet so many different people from all walks of life. I enjoy the classes as well as the social scene.
Bang for the buck
My advice for prospective students is that you should not be driven away because of the high price tag of tuition because it is definitely a great investment in your education. The quality of the facilities and professors is amazing as well as the campus itself is beautiful. The campus offers free tutoring, a math lab where students taking math can get help, campus transportation, the bus system (which is very convienent in the rain), and the dining areas have a wide variety of delicious food. I really believe that with great teachers, and all the other things mentioned that you get the BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!
Tips for prospective students
My advice for prospective students is that during your time at the University of Alabama you should obtain hands-on experience, take advantage of office hours to get to know your teachers, and soak in the cultures that are represented on campus. Don't let your social life, control your college life and have a great time joining the many clubs that the University has to offer.
Great for these types of students
For the type of student that loves people and loves to learn, this college is for you! I believe that with the diversity and the wide range of opportunities that present themselves at this school it is for everyone who has the ultimate desire to succeed in life. Some people say the school is too big, but it offers small close- knit dorms and living learning communities that are similar to small liberal arts schools. Some say it is too much of a party school, but ultimately that area is a choice of the student. This college is for any student that wants to go far in life and this university helps make dreams come true!

Chelsey from Jamestown, NC

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Professors at Alabama are top-notch. Lecture classes of 100 people may be intimidating but the professors and graduate assistants alleviate the nerves by teaching the subjects well and by making themselves available when students need assistance. There is a wide variety of courses offered here at the Capstone and each one is very interesting. As cliche as it may sound, I really do learn something new every day.
Am enjoying being here
Being at Alabama is one of the greatest experiences you'll ever have. Football season here is incomparable to anywhere else I've ever been. There is a definite feeling of community on campus and you are always greeted with a friendly, smiling face. There are tons of student organizations you can get involved with in order to meet people and as big as our campus is, you never feel like a small fish in a big pond. Sports, especially football are a big deal here at 'Bama and there is so much pride in the Crimson Tide that you feel like you are truly a part of something rather than simply being at school.
Bang for the buck
Let's face it, tuition is expensive no matter where you go. But, the university as well as the alumni association have awesome scholarship opportunities that truly help cut cost down. Alabama does everything and more it can do to make its students feel at home here. By coming to Alabama, you're not only getting quality education - you're a part of one of the greatest and strongest communities in the United States. Between Alabama's educational value, social atmosphere and athletic forte - you definitely get your money's worth.
Tips for prospective students
If at all possible, take a tour - both an official campus tour and one of your own where you're just walking around! You'll get a great feel of what it's like to be a student here by spending some time walking through campus.
Apply early! Even if you're not sure if Alabama's the right fit for you, go ahead and apply early. The earlier you apply, the faster you will hear whether or not you've been accepted or not.
Don't be intimidated by the Greek system if that's not for you. It may seem like our campus is nothing but fraternity boys and sorority girls, but surprisingly our campus is only about 1/4 Greek. If you're interested in rushing, start getting recommendation letters now! If you're not sure about it, give it a try! You'll meet tons of great people during rush week!
Ask questions! There are admissions counselors waiting to answer your questions and there are students who are more than willing to help you out.
Great for these types of students
Every type of student has a place here at Alabama, from the bio-med student who has to spend all their time working to the mom who is going back to school; from the sports-obsessed student just looking for socialization to the home-schooled student looking to find a place to expand their horizons!

Brianca from Prattville, AL

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At The University of Alabama excelling in learning is a part of our motto. Whether a student is taking Theatre or Human Development classes they are sure to learn something that will not only help them in class but as well as out of class.
Am enjoying being here
I love The University of Alabama environment. It is my home away from home. During the week the campus environment is very relaxing and displays an easy-going vibe. People are friendly and helpful as well. Along with relaxing environment the campus is full of traditions. On game days there is not a dull moment. The University of Alabama football team won the 2009 National Championship and a member of the team won the Heisman Award in 2009 as well. Those two victories excites the students as well as fans. Game days are a blast at The University of Alabama.
Bang for the buck
If an individual decides to come to The University of Alabama it would not be a waste of time and money. The University of Alabama is one of the top colleges in the state of Alabama. Learning is a key to success at the university. Along with the importance of learning, there are several out-of-class activities on campus. Anyone who attends The University of Alabama is sure to love the campus.
Tips for prospective students
My tip to prospective students is to stay grounded in your goals and the purpose of coming to college. Because of the big traditions in sports, the university can become quite a party college. Students must stay focus in their education but also have a balance lifestyle by studying as well as relaxing.
Great for these types of students
Colleges and Schools :
Arts and Sciences
Commerce and Business Administration
Communication and Information Sciences
Community Health Sciences
Continuing Studies
Education
Engineering
Graduate
Honors
Human Environmental Sciences
Law
Nursing
Social Work

Lindsey from Tuscaloosa, AL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Coming to college you are expected to learned. Coming to the University of Alabama you love to learn. I never really wanted to learn but each teacher here has their own way of making it very interesting and fun to learn. Each teacher loves what they do and enjoys the subject themselves and they want you to see it to.
Am enjoying being here
Although, I am not apart of a sport team, or any Greek organizations. I have still enjoyed being here. The University has many different things that you can do. I love being able to go to the quad and just look around.
Bang for the buck
The University not only uses your tuition for paying the wonderful teachers here, but they use it to better you. They use the money for building, grounds, and buses. If they see that a building is not standing up to what the university standards are, they call in a repair group. You will never have to worry about grounds, there is always someone cleaning, sweeping, mopping, or mowing. The bus system for UA is the best! Although each bus could be a little later then the normal 15 minutes, the bus system makes it easy to get from the other side of campus quick!
Tips for prospective students
The biggest tip I have for a prospective student is to not just sit in your room. Get out to know someone, or maybe just your roommate! Get out and go someone, walk around campus, walk around the strip on University. I would say get involved you never want to just go to class, come home, and repeat.
Great for these types of students
-Hands on students
-social students
-eager to learn students
-ready to have fun students

Joshua from Huntsville, AL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The atmosphere here is great and loving. Everyone is accepting and makes you feel at home. Whenever you need a break from work you can always count on a good time following a football game or just a party.
Tips for prospective students
Rule #1 Try not to procrastinate even though its hard getting ahead of your work will cause less stress.
Academic Rigor
Academic level here is great, and if you need help you can depend on fellow students, professors, and tutors to assist you in your work so you won't get behind.
Dorm Life
The neighbors you live around can become your best friends, and the janitors and staff here are all loving and makes it feel like they are your friends also.
Food and Dining
The dining halls are usually open late and when you need a late night meal will provide you with some good food. The staff here are also very generous and try to make conversation as you wait on your order.
What to do for fun
The football games are always great to attend. You can have fun on the quad or go to other sports events that the university provides for free.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Bryant Denny Stadium one of the best stadiums in the nation is always a great place to escape to an cheer on the #1 team. The quad is a great place to go and enjoy the sun and/or meet people playing things like Frisbee.
Clubs and Activities
There are many clubs and activities that are held by the university programs each week. They give you a great opportunity to get out when you need a break from work and enjoy great shows.
Greek Life
The parties are always super fun and will guarantee you a great time. I mean who doesn't like to party when they can?
Campus Safety
Campus Police are always roaming around all through the day and nights keeping an eye on everyone's safety. They make you feel like you are protected.

Peter from Birmingham, AL

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The learning experience at UA is very thorough. You not only receive top of the line instruction from your teachers, but you also learn from peers through countless group assignments. The assignments encourage students to break out of their shell and not reach their own full potential, but also help their peers reach theirs as well.
Am enjoying being here
There is a never a dull moment at UA. Whether you are at a football game,(Roll Tide!) basketball game, soccer game, or simply just relaxing with friends, you will always find something to do, not to mention the dozens of signs around campus informing students of upcoming activities!
Bang for the buck
UA is more than worth the price. One thing I can say about the staff is that they are truly concerned about the success and careers of their students. It seems like they are always letting us know about the latest internships and job openings. Also if you have a question or concern about a class, the teachers will treat you as if you are the only student in the class by displaying patience and kindness.
Tips for prospective students
My tips would have to be making sure you are responsible and take advantage of every single opportunity that you encounter. Whether it be going to hear a speaker, or volunteering, you should do it. I guarantee it will benefit you in the long run.
Great for these types of students
To be truthful and honest, UA is great for all majors. They are ranked pretty high in all of their programs. Also you'll get a great all around experience here as the teachers are very well rounded and knowledgeable.

Engineering Major

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I'm a senior, and looking back, I've had a great experience. I've been able to be involved in many more opportunities than I would have gotten at my state's flagship school, or any other 'name' school for that matter. UA is becoming much more well known, and more than 50% of its students are from out of state.
Tips for prospective students
Don't let the party atmosphere fool you and suck you in. From the very beginning, work hard to get the best grades you can. The law of averages means that poor grades your first few semesters will be very hard to balance out, even if you get straight As later. It's just how it works. And get to know your professors in order to get letters of recommendation from them. Join at least 1 club that is similar to an activity you had in high school...and then join 1 club that is something new for you. Don't wait until later years to join stuff. Time flies. School work goes by 2-5x faster than in high school...so above all, go to class, lectures and labs no matter what.
Academic Rigor
Some classes are insanely hard (due to my major). Some classes are not difficult to pull an A in. If you go to class and keep up on the work, you should not fail any class, except if you don't have the ability (Iike the math/STEM courses if you're not good at these).
Dorm Life
The suite-style dorms are like mini apartments and there isn't a lot of social interaction outside of the suite. You'll meet people if you want to...or you may not, if you keep to yourself. It is important to have good roommates - not necessarily your best friends, but people who respect the dorm rules and personal boundaries.
Food and Dining
You'll get tired of it, but that's the same at any college. Use your unlimited mealplan (which is mandatory the first year) as much as you can - even if you just go in for a snack. You can take stuff to go, too. There are several dining halls spread around campus. There is a food court and we have the largest Starbucks in the country.
What to do for fun
Rec center is popular. Going out for dinner with friends. There's always something going on on campus, from movies to speakers to improv shows to live theater to concerts....there's so much going on, truly.
Bang for the buck
I'm on a great scholarship, and if you qualify, UA is very generous to high stat students, and this makes UA very affordable for most families. The suite dorms are expensive, so your first year on campus will be expensive no matter what.
Great for these types of students
Greeks.
Engineering and smart (Honors College) people.
Out of state students.
Football and sports fans.
Nursing majors.
Business, Finance, Marketing majors.
Great Law School.
Clubs and Activities
There are 100s. JOIN!!!!
Greek Life
I'm not in it, but it's extremely prevalent on campus.
Campus Safety
Be sensible. Don't walk anywhere at night alone, or with your headphones in so you can't hear what is around you. There is a ride program you can call and someone will come pick you up. There are the usual blue light emergency stations throughout campus. I never see Campus Police myself, but I guess they are there.

Rachael from Elgin, IL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
I think my courseload is exactly what I signed myself up for. I'm challenged in my classes, which is what every student needs. My professors make learning the material interesting, and even fun!
Dorm Life
I live in a suite style dorm, and I think it was definitely worth the price. I live with three other girls, but we each have our own room, with a door that locks. The suite is like a baby apartment, complete with living room and kitchenette. The highlight of this style of dorm in definitely the having your own room. You can study all night without the worry of keeping up a roommate, or you can go to sleep early and not have to worry about being kept up.
Food and Dining
As a freshman, I'm on the unlimited meal plan. I'm trying to stay away from the Freshman 15, which seems to be impossible with an all you can eat dining hall package. The benefit is, however, that you can get whatever you want. Whether you want to sit down for a full meal or are just looking for a snack, that's possible here on campus.
What to do for fun
GAME DAY!
I'm from the north, so football game day is an amazing experience. The Crimson Tide is such a great football team to support. All of Tuscaloosa seems to be buzzing on gameday, it's a sea of crimson and white. It's a 'must see for yourself' type of experience.
Bang for the buck
At the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter they do puppy happy hour. You can take out a dog from the animal shelter for the day (within the time constraints) for FREE!
You need to have a car or know someone with a car to be able to get there. Definitely worth the 10 minute drive of campus!
Greek Life
My roommate is a part of Greek life here on campus. She loves it so so much. She's quite the social butterfly, she's constantly talking to people and trying to make new friends. Greek life is HUGE here. It wasn't something I specifically wanted to do, but it's a great option for many!

Kathryn from Roseville, CA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The academics are challenging and keep you thinking. Football and traditions here are important. Roll Tide.
Tips for prospective students
The campus is very large, but don't be overwhelmed because everything is very easy to get to. Go to the football games and get involved. Make sure to have fun but always put academics first.
Academic Rigor
Classes can be tough, it really depends on the professor. The library will become your best friend for homework and studying.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is awesome! You meet so many amazing people and have the best experiences. It's great living on campus and being close to everything. A lot of students live on campus their sophomore year as well.
Food and Dining
The food at the dining halls is pretty good, but gets boring and old after awhile. They do try to mix things up every once in awhile so make sure to go to the dining halls when they have themed days.
What to do for fun
Go for a walk on the river, volunteer with community service group, fraternity parties, going out on the strip. It is never boring here!
Bang for the buck
You are paying a lot, but you also get a lot in return. The professors are very knowledgeable and the campus is beautiful!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The traditions are endless here, especially during football season with the walk of champions and Big Al's elephant stomp. Not to mention saying roll tide becomes a normal phrase in your vocabulary.
Great for these types of students
If you want a big campus with a lot of people, but also want a small campus feel Alabama is the place for you. While there are a lot of people that go here and classes can be big, the University offers many opportunities for smaller class sizes and many different interest groups so you can be a part of this large university without getting lost in the crowd.
Clubs and Activities
Get on Board day every year shows all of our clubs and activities that we have to offer. There is no way of not finding your niche because there are many different types of clubs and groups for every type of person.
Greek Life
Greek life is very prevalent but not necessary. A lot of the school is Greek and the parties are pretty fun, but you can have a lot of fun not joining a fraternity or sorority as well.
Campus Safety
I feel very safe here and have never thought I wasn't safe. UAPD is very prevalent and there are emergency light poles all over campus.

Allison from Birmingham, AL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am a Biology major with a French minor on the Pre-Medical track. If you are planning on majoring in anything science prepare for a demanding road. My Chemistry 101 class took over my life but because I love the sciences, I found everything interesting. I learned so much and the teachers really want to help you but you have to work for a good grade. My teacher was Joseph Thrasher and he is a tenure chemistry teacher here with amazing accreditations but he is teaches a difficult class. If you don't mind staying up every night to learn the information he doesn't teach in class but has on the test, I would recommend a different teacher. My French teacher was Prof. ReMine who is a good-natured young lady who I think I can say is a friend of mine. She had no problem reiterating her point for any student who didn't understand something and she wrote me a great recommendation for an organization I was really interested in.
Basically, the teachers care so much about the students but the sciences will run you through the mill to get you ready for your intended career. We also have a great Business school and Education school along with our Nursing and natural sciences.
Am enjoying being here
I have really found a home here in Tuscaloosa. The campus is so beautiful from many dimensions and the people are friendly and willing to help. The volunteering office is always busy accomindating students with the passion to help the community. Our school is focused on outreach to the student and to the community and I feel we have excelled in that. I enjoy being here because of the amazing people I have met through being an Orientation leader and living in the all girls dorm on sorority row, Tutwiler Hall.
Going to football games is a lifestyle here and when you go to a school with 12 National Championships under it's belt and an undefeated season, it's easy to jump right into it. The first game I went to as a student here was so much fun! The tickets are purchased in the summer before the fall season and there are two ticket packages to choose from for incoming students and full home game tickets for upperclassmen.
I love going here and sometimes I find myself yelling Roll Tide! to random people on the Quad or sitting at Denny Chimes. But everytime it makes my day.
Bang for the buck
I have instate tuition so my tuition will be half the amount for out of state students. I pay around $5,000 a semester for my dorm, books, classes, meal plans, Bama Cash, and tuition. Seeing as though most colleges would make me pay twice that much even being in-state, I would say it's a great deal. When I first visited UA, I knew it was home and I was excited to come here, but my family is very tight for money and I was not going anywhere that expected too much from me financially. That approximate $5,000 may seem like a lot but with financial aid and scholarships to incoming students, you could be paid to come here. Some of my friends with 30's on their ACTs are not only being paid to come here but also recieved free Macbooks from the university! Everyone at UA really wants to see you shine so scholarship is given in great amounts.
Tips for prospective students
The biggest tip I have to give to prospective students is to find the best way for you to study. We have a fun night life and over 500 organizations to join but you go to college to learn about your prospective career. Learning how you learn will make it soo much easier for you to do well in class and will bring more opportunities to you like exclusive honor societies like Golden Key as well as Premiere Awards from the university.
Another tip is to pace yourself with the multiple opportunities you will be offered. I am a member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority, SGA, Avanti which leads orientation for fall and spring, and a few honor societies. I get stressed out being so busy so pace yourself and really think about which organizations will get you to where you want to be.
If you don't already work in groups, I found that working with a group on studying for a test or working on a large project is very helpful.
Finally, this is college, so try new things. Open yourself to things you never saw yourself doing. This could be the perfect opportunity to conquer your fears.
Great for these types of students
UA is a big place with a lot of students but I have found that your community is as small as you make it. We cater to different types of people and welcome different backgrounds. There is a place here for anyone who wants to succeed and grow.