University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ, USA

Reviews

University of Arizona

Alexis from Phoenix, AZ

a current student here
74 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Not all of the learning you do is academic. Much of my first year was personal growth learning. Just be expected for both.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely looooove this school. I've taken classes at some other colleges during the summer when I was in high school, so I know what other colleges offer and how they work. UA just absolutely blows them all out of the water. The people are nice and friendly, the city's great, the campus is beautiful, and the programs are all so unbelievable. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Bang for the buck
UA tuition is going up, but I still think it's worth it. I wouldn't be going there if I didn't!
Tips for prospective students
Definitely at least a dorm for the first year, especially if you're not from Tucson. You'll meet more people, get to know the campus better, and get more advantages than people who move there from out of state and have to worry about the commute, rent and utilities right off the bat. Do try to stay away from the larger dorms, unless you like to meet hundreds of people at once.

Try everything once. You only go through college once, and a little experimentation--both academically and socially--is the only way to fully take advantage of it all.
Great for these types of students
Definitely be willing to work. You could just do what you did in high school, and it's probable that you'll do well--but if you really work your butt off, UA has some of the most cutting-edge research facilities, laboratories, and programs in the country, and hard work is the only way you get in those.

Kristy from small town, NY

a current student here
34 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There are so many classes to take and lots of majors offered. That's what I like about it being a big school. I got to start with the introductory courses in my major right away and even took the honors strand (open to everyone) so I had a great professor and we went a little faster and more in depth.
Am enjoying being here
It's a long ways from home and I'm more homesick than I thought I would be, but the people are very nice and I've made lots of friends especially in class everyone wants a study group so introduce yourself before the professor starts. I found my first week that a simple introduction in a science lecture can led to quick friendships especially if in your major you'll see them a lot!
Bang for the buck
I'm out of state, but their out of state scholarship makes it almost in state price and it's a lot cheaper than private schools! The private school I was looking at gave me a larger scholarship and was still about 20 thousand more a year. Also they sent their undergraduates here for research! Including my major they have many programs that are ranked very high in the country, I won't list them because I know they advertise them.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be afraid to apply from out of state, the out of state scholarship can take care of most or all of the difference between the two prices. Also live on campus the first semester and get a meal plan. There really are great food options on campus and it's a long way to the grocery store. Bikes help if you want to go off campus, but often get stolen especially if you're on campus it's cheaper to buy the bus ticket every once and a while. Don't bring a car traffic is crazy and parking is expensive, besides it's unnecessary everything's on campus.
Great for these types of students
Of course self-motivated, responsible adults like any college. Also social people, it's a big school so if you are afraid to get out there and make friends you may end up hiding in your room. Athletic people, sports events are huge (if you don't attend the games people think you're weird) and the new addition to the recreation center is amazing!

Sarah from Scottsdale, AZ

a current student here
21 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I almost never missed class last year. Class is educational, entertaining and difficult. Although some classes are of large proportions, the professors are always willing to give individual attention through office hours. If you study hard and make time for each of your classes than you should be fine!
Am enjoying being here
I love the campus. Although U of A is in Tucson, campus is filled with grass and trees. A misconception is that Tucson is a bad place to live. Although there are some parts that might not seem appealing to all; there are extremely nice parts to the area. The students are all extremely friendly and out going.
Bang for the buck
Budget cuts are going into effect but the administration is doing everything they can to keep from tuition raising. It is the highest priced university in Arizona but educationally it exceeds. If you are looking for the best education in Arizona than it is well worth the tuition.
Tips for prospective students
Live on campus first year. This is where you will meet some of your best friends and it is a awesome experience. Get involved in something that interest you! Go to athletic events! Come visit the campus in the Fall! This is some of the nicest weather and with football and school going to campus is in full swing! Summer campus tours are really hot and the campus may seem dead due to lack of people around campus.
Great for these types of students
Like warm weather, frat and sororities, friendly environment. Interested in health, astronomy, or business ( some of the top programs for those majors).

Freshman

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
There is so much to learn, too much it seems sometimes. I am a freshman and I took Bio and Chem at the same time it was very difficult.
Am enjoying being here
I am enjoying it here regardless if the classes are hard or not. Make sure you don't just drown yourself in the books, talk to people make new friends!
Bang for the buck
It is expensive to go to college, finding used text books and living with family is cheap and you will have extra cash to spend!
Tips for prospective students
Don't take two sciences or a science and a math at the same time. It is a lot to take on especially if you plan on working. Don't procrastinate! College takes away from your sleeping time so do work before hand and eat a health meal to get you through your day!
Great for these types of students
Any student can attend the U of A. College won't be as easy as high school so be ready to keep yourself motivated and focused!

Marie from San Diego, CA

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
All the classes you can chose from are quite interesting. Most of the professors really take the time to make sure you understand everything if you go to their office hours. Also, you learn a ton about yourself as a freshman living in the dorms, and you learn to grow up fast if you were always helped out by your parents.
Am enjoying being here
I LOVE being here. It's hard being away from home, but I've met so many people who make me forget my homesickness. I joined a sorority which is my home away from home, and everyone has helped me a lot with classes, dorm living, friendship problems, the whole 10 yards.
Bang for the buck
Tuition is raising, but coming from California where budget cuts are terrible, and students can't get classes, Arizona is a dream come true. You are guaranteed English and Math classes, so you don't have to worry when registering for those. Also, living here is extremely cheap, so after freshman year, you can find apartments for almost any price and within a few miles of campus.
Tips for prospective students
Really remember the saying: Social, School, Sleep. You only get two of the three, so which is it going to be? If you manage your time well, and do homework ahead of time, the weekends are relaxing, but if you procrastinate, it really gets you in the end. You're not in highschool anymore, so you really have to take control of your own learning now.
Great for these types of students
Social, outdoors loving, academic driven students.

Summer from Mesa, AZ

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Arizona has been all I've ever dreamed of so far! There is something for everyone, no matter who you are or what interests you have. It has been the perfect college experience and more.
Tips for prospective students
I highly advise the University of Arizona if you're looking into it, go for it! Make sure you get all your applications in on time and are meeting the requirements to get into the University, then you're all set.
Academic Rigor
All of my professors and teachers are highly educated and have many cool experiences, like publishing books. I have enjoyed taking courses at the University of Arizona this semester. I have learned so much already and I still have 4 years left!
Dorm Life
Dorm life has its positives and negatives, but it's something everyone should experience. The RAs and DAs are very friendly and helpful. I've met so many cool and interesting people in my dorm. It is definitely the best way to meet new people. Roommates are interesting. It takes some getting used to living with someone you don't know. Hopefully you and your roommate become good friends. I highly recommend dorm life to incoming freshmen.
Food and Dining
The University of Arizona has a wide variety of different foods and places to eat. The Student Union has a food court, which is just unbelievable. There are many choices like Panda Express, Chic-fil-a, Burger King, a Deli shop, frozen yogurt, and several sit down restaurants. You can purchase a meal plan at the beginning of the semester, and then you just use your student ID to purchase your food which is so nice!
What to do for fun
There is always something going on at the University of Arizona. Activities going on in the grassy area outside the mall, shows, games, tailgates, parties, exhibits, and the rec center. No matter who you are or what you like to do, there is sure to be something fun for you to spend your free time doing.
Campus Safety
The campus does a great job of ensuring students safety on campus. At night, there is a service provided called safe ride which will drive you to where you need to be. Also, there are stations throughout the campus where you simply press a button and the police are notified that there is trouble and where the location is. This helps me feel so much better about walking around campus alone, especially at night.

Matthew from Tucson, AZ

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Am currently in my second year, so some of the stuff is not quite relevant yet, but this is to be expected because there are still some GenEds (General education or unrelated to major classes) to take care of. In my major-oriented classes I am learning TONS of information that is all very important and useful to my current major.
Am enjoying being here
Tucson is a fantastic place to be. It is sunny most days of the year, although during the summer it can get very hot (good thing there's no school besides summer session!). The winter/fall/spring are all pleasant and enjoyable and has many of those days where you step outside and are just a happy person because of the weather. As far as entertainment, the U of A's sports games are always fun to go to as well as the many clubs and memorable eateries located on 4th Avenue. And, for the gentlemen, the women are beautiful, so be sure and buy a jaw lock to keep it from dropping your first day on campus!
Bang for the buck
I am an in-state student, so the tuition isn't quite as high as many other people will be paying. For what I pay for though, I get a fantastic education and really learn a lot. There are still some classes here and there that truly don't feel like college classes and are either too easy or not important/interesting in the slightest.
Tips for prospective students
To future students, I would recommend a couple of things:
•If you're not from Arizona, be prepared for the heat. Buy plenty of light clothing to wear in the summer, and a light jacket for the winter. I personally wear basketball shorts year round and am comfortable even in the winter.
•Be prepared for anything when it comes to classes. Many of the classes will depend upon the teacher's style and requirements. The same course could just as easily be a class you sometimes don't remember you have, or the nightmare that has you working 2 hours a day on homework. If you are ready for either, you will succeed.
•Join clubs or organized sports. There are HUNDREDS of clubs and sports which you can participate in, and they are for all kinds of interests. The UA has a policy where you can even create your own club! Because of this, there are a wide variety to choose from and enjoy. They keep you active and give you a social foundation.
•Condense your schedule, and have it mid-morning to mid-afternoon. I currently do this, which is to say having my classes back to back and having them start around 9 or 10 and go until about 1 or 2. It is the most effective way to schedule. This way, you can get plenty of sleep, and still have a night to do things the day before class. When getting out at 2, you can complete your homework and have the rest of the day to yourself. It's a great stress relief and will keep you happy.
•Finally, get plenty of sleep and eat a good diet. These two things you might be thinking are only health related, but they're not. They are also school performance related. Getting plenty of sleep, which is 7-9 hours, is CRUCIAL. I went my first semester getting only about 6 hours of sleep, and I was always exhausted and couldn't focus. Eating healthy is the same deal. It helps your mind churn and keeps you happy. Many fear the freshman fifteen but with a solid eating plan and exercise I actually lost about 40 healthy pounds entering college!
Great for these types of students
The University of Arizona is great for:
•People that can stand/enjoy heat
•Those that dislike freezing winters
•Those that want a challenge but not Mission Impossible
•Those that enjoy the city life/can handle many people in Tucson and at the University.
•Basically anyone that finds his/her education important and central.

brianne from phoenix, az

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
the university of arizona is an awesome campus that is just the right size to be able to easily walk across campus. although there are a lot of students at the school the campus has a community-like feel. there are so many clubs and programs to be a part of you are sure to never be bored here.
Tips for prospective students
make sure to check out the campus through a tour and join any clubs you are interested in.
Academic Rigor
classes can be challenging but make sure to take advantage of the library and some of the free tutoring services the school has to offer.
Dorm Life
i loved the dorms. i lived in likins hall and it was right next to everything i needed including most of my classes.
Food and Dining
the dining hall does not have any healthy options.
What to do for fun
i love to involve myself in my sorority that i am in as well as the clubs i have joined. there are also always things going on at the campus mall.
Greek Life
i am in a sorority on campus and it's one of the best decisions i've made at the school. i always have a house to go to a a great group of girls i can count on.
Campus Safety
i feel safe on campus.

Madeline from Denver, Colorado

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Arizona is great university that offers opportunities for undergraduate research. This is particularly unique, because it allows for the students to actively engage in research early in their careers. Overall, the University of Arizona is a rigorous university, especially for any STEM majors, but it all will be worth it in the end.
Tips for prospective students
If you are planning on applying to the University of Arizona and you are from out-of-state, I suggest that you prepare yourself as much as possible for the heat, because it is HOT here, and you're going to need plenty of lighter clothes. And also prepare for monsoon weather, the rain can be very intense here.
Academic Rigor
It all depends on how much you are willing to devote your time into each of your classes. No one said it's going to be easy to go through college, so work hard in your classes regardless if they seem have more or less rigor.
Dorm Life
Honestly, it depends on where you live. If you are coming in as a freshman, I highly suggest living in the dorms because it allows for you to make friends easily and creates a good bonding relationship with your fellow peers. It also depends on where you are willing to live. Choosing a dorm that is closer to the Union would be preferable, especially if you have many classes that are close to that area (especially for science majors, who most likely would have at least one class in the Koffler building). The party dorm is Coronado, but Arbol de la Vida is right next door and is a VERY nice dorm, since it is the newest on campus. It is also the honors dorm. If you're not in the honors college, you can still live in Arbol, as long as your roommate is in the honors college.
Food and Dining
The food is kind of a hassle. It can be annoying to go to the Union constantly just to get your food and fulfill your meals of the day. The food options are not the healthiest either, there is Cactus Grill upstairs, which has some good options if you need vegetables or protein other than a Chick-fil-A sandwich or a burger from Burger King. However, the prices at Cactus Grill can be expensive (except the burgers). The meal plan tries can be somewhat enticing at first, but the whole 10 percent off your meal can be somewhat of a ploy since the average price for food can be $6-10, which can add up overtime and it's not all you can eat unless you go to Pangea for $10.99. There are a lot of options, but I regret having a larger meal plan since I barely use it due to the fact that most of the food is not as healthy and too far away from the dorm. That being said, there are A LOT of off-campus food places that are super cheap and affordable for college students. Just explore the options and do your research on Yelp before going because I know sometimes the pictures can be deceiving.
What to do for fun
There are a lot of activities that freshman can do during the first week of the semester. There are great cookouts and free food with free t-shirts handed out on the UA mall that have great ways to meet new people. There's a recreational center, the pool is very nice and can be a great place to sunbathe on the water with floating foam pads. Clubs are also a great way to have something fun to do over the weekends, especially intramural club sports. I know for a fact that it can also be fun to just take SafeRide (the free transportation service on campus) to Walmart or shopping outlet (within in 10 miles of the University) to buy food and hang out! A good place to just chill would be the Scented Leaf, which is a great tea house that sells all sorts of teas that offer free second refills. (Just be warned, the tea can be VERY addicting!!)
Bang for the buck
If you use the resources that are available on campus like ThinkTank and resources that help with individual financial struggles and fully utilize the on-campus services like SafeRide, your college experience will definitely be worth the money that you invested into each of your classes. It also is completely dependent on the amount of effort that you put into making your college experience the best that it can possibly be that truly improves the fulfillment of you bucks.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There are some unusual locations on campus if you're looking for them, I know there is a huge rock near Old Main that is called the music rock because it has holes hollowed into it that make different pitches of sound if you bang on the outside of the hole. There are many practice piano rooms available in the basement of the music building, many of them are just open for the public. And supposedly on campus, there is a unicorn statue, just haven't gotten the chance to see it in person. If you need a nice place to study or relax outside (when it's not melting weather), a great place would be the turtle pond, which is near the park.
Great for these types of students
If you are a science major, it would be best to get into research early. Find a lab that interests you and go directly in and begin your work, because the sooner you start, the more experience and insight you'll have in the future, which will help you improve upon your skills if you're planning on going into research or any health professions. Also, manage your time and do NOT procrastinate! Just because you have a 2 or 3 hour gap or more, does not mean you should take a nap! Rest is important, but make sure to review over concepts each week in order to reinforce the concepts, so that when it comes time for the Final exam, you're ready!
Clubs and Activities
It depends on which clubs you plan on joining. There are A LOT of clubs that are involved on this campus. Find one that interests you, or are unique to your personality, even your ethnicity. Because, I know there are a lot clubs that are specifically for ethnic American groups that always have great opportunities for whatever major or profession you are pursuing, and they always have authentic free food that is great bonus! I would try as many clubs that you are interested in as possible in order to keep your options open, see what each one is about, take the free pizza, and decide whether or not you're interested in them or not!
Greek Life
I know the greek life is supposedly not as good as other campuses, but it seems like there are a lot of hazing and incidents that do not end in a positive way. The U of A is said to have the worse greek life in the collegiate society and may result in losing their funding for the sororities and fraternities. So if you're planning on joining the U of A just to come for the parties, I suggest a different place for the greek life, because it is said to be not the best.
Campus Safety
Overall, the campus can be kind of sketchy to walk around at night. It has been getting better, the blue light system and SafeRide helps a lot, so use those resources. A lot of the roads and sidewalks leading to dorms can be very dark, so bring a flashlight or ask someone to escort you. The key is to always travel smartly and to make sure that you avoid situations that may increase the risk of being attacked or assaulted. This means, avoid dark alleyways, don't walk alone, be alert, don't text while walking, pay attention to your surroundings, and with these tips, it will be easier to avoid these types of situations.

Tory from Albuquerque, NM

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Not only do you learn academically, you learn in many other areas. Greek life, dorm life, and sports all have a great impact on learning and growing. You grow academically and intellectually here.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful and the weather is wonderful. Being from out of state is not a big deal because people from all over come here. The sports events are so much fun and our teams are only supposed to getbetter. Every aspect of college life is great here. Tucson has a lot of interesting places to go see and if you are bored, Phoenix is just over an hour away.
Bang for the buck
For how inexpensive it is, you get a great education. The scholarships awarded to in-state and out-of-state students are great. I get over half my tuition paid for and I'm from out of state!
Tips for prospective students
Try to get a dorm on Highland. Unless you eat all the time, watch what meal plan you get because you can't downgrade! If you are interested in Greek Life, go for it! It's huge here and so much fun! Get you Zona Zoo pass so you can go to the football and basketball games, they are a blast.
Great for these types of students
Any type of student. It is a very diverse campus.