University of Delaware
Newark, DE, USA

Reviews

University of Delaware

David from Fairfield, CT

a current student here
26 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Pulling an all nighter never seemed so exciting before. One computer science class, and I felt like I could tackle and computer programming question out there. Most classes are similar in the amount of learning that goes on. Everywhere you turn, you will see students seeking help or offering help. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Am enjoying being here
Great social lifestyle. All the dorms are close to classes and people are generally welcoming and friendly. Partying is big here, so pick your social scene carefully.
Bang for the buck
Ranked on Princeton Review's 'Worst financial Aid' list, Delaware definitely isn't a place for someone looking for a full ride. With an out-of-state price tag of about 32,000 a year, one might find it hard to afford without some sort of financial aid or scholarships.
Tips for prospective students
The University of Delaware is a very eye-catching institution. It boasts a beautiful campus that will hook you the minute you lay eyes on the main green. However, don't let it get to your head too much. Consider the majors you're interested in, as well as the social atmosphere of the school. It is a smaller state school than other Division I schools, but nonetheless just as competitive. Engineering, Business, and Chemistry are notoriously competitive majors here. Be ready to be up late for papers, studying, and socializing. You're best friends are your neighbors. The dorms contain a wealth of information helpful for surviving college.

If you ever struggle in a class, do not be afraid to schedule an appointment with an advisor or professor. They are your best friends. If they can't find an answer to your problems, they will find someone that can answer to you.
Great for these types of students
If you like to network and meet new people, Delaware is right for you. Also, if you like to work hard, and feel rewarded afterwards, Delaware is also right for you. Basically, it is a school suited for anyone. However, it is you're own personal college experience, and it is here for you to make what you want out of it. Nobody is going to force you to become something/someone, but everyone is here to help shape a great life experience. An open minded student with a positive attitude is welcome at Delaware on any given day.

Maria from Long Island, NY

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I'm a Music Education major here, and not only am I already finding myself improving (not even two months into classes!) with my piano and vocal studies, but my General Education classes are teaching me a great deal. I like that there is a large amount of breadth requirements for all majors. Although it is stressful at times, it allows for a well-rounded, exciting education. My Professors all love what they teach, and many are published experts in their field, making their knowledge that much more valuable.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful, everyone is friendly, the staff and faculty are so helpful, the food's really pretty good, school spirit abounds. Literally every day I think of how lucky I am to be going to such a great school and studying in such a fantastic music department around such talented and encouraging Professors AND peers.
Bang for the buck
I got a pretty good scholarship so a lot of the financial burden has been taken off my family. But I definitely do see that tuition goes to good use, between classes, facilities, student programming, etc.
Tips for prospective students
Apply to the honors program; I'm currently in it and am enjoying the challenging and engaging classes. Honors students all live together, and it's really nice that on weeknights or Sundays, when we have to buckle down, we either sit in the hallway or the lounge and study together. We all might be stressed about classes and wanting to put off our work, but the fact that everyone around you is studying makes it easier. It's also nice to be able to knock on your neighbor's door and ask them to proofread a paper for you or answer a quick question. We lean on each other.
Great for these types of students
Music students, those who enjoy peer encouragement/feedback on their work, honors students.
I just wanted to write a message for people who are concerned that Delaware is a party school...on any given weekend (probably weeknight, for that matter) lots of people will be interested in going out and drinking, and lots of parties are available nearby to cater to that. But really, if you're being true in your friendships, you'll find people who prefer watching a movie or playing board games, and you'll find school-sponsored activities or performances to enjoy. While I don't consider myself a partier and spend a lot of my weekends in, I do appreciate that if I do want to go out, I can easily find a party. And I feel no pressure to drink. It's just a matter of finding a group of friends who enjoy the same activities that you do.

Laura from Whitehall, PA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Since I have come to this school I have learned more than I could have imagined. The professors are all really nice and pull knowledge and information out of me that I never knew I had. All are very encouraging and personal. Yes, they learn your name and take time to make sure you understand the material properly. I haven't just learned from the school though, the other students attending have also helped me learn and grow here. We tend to stick together in rough classes, help each other out with problems, and build great friendships. And don't forget, we're living on our own here now, requiring newly learned ways of time management, meal coordination, etc. College will be one of the best learning experiences of your life, choose wisely.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely LOVE being here. The campus is so beautiful with multiple fountains throughout campus. We have a built-to-scale solar system spreading across campus which is pretty neat to explore. There is also the mentor's circle which has perfect acoustics. It's outside and students walking through it will clap once they get to the middle of the circle just to hear the perfect sound. Entertainment? OF COURSE! Free basketball and football games and you get a free t-shirt at each one. We have an outdoor pool with a sliding board (an inside pool too!), two ice skating rinks (free entry for students, hockey games $4, etc.), and so much more! We also have a special fund for students here that we get student events like outdoor movies, tye-dying parties, ice cream parties, etc. On any given day there is always SOMEWHERE to go or something to do with your friends. And yes, you will make lots of friends here on campus.
Bang for the buck
Okay, so my tuition went up 9% this past year. The economy is stinking pretty badly right now, but as an out of state student I happen to think that less than 30,000 a year is pretty darn good. And for in staters, you've got it made even more. With plenty of financial aid to offer and various scholarships and grants, you don't need to worry about having too many loans when you graduate. I'd say for the education, entertainment, and beauty of the school, this is the best deal!
Tips for prospective students
Academically, work hard, don't be afraid to ask teachers for help because THEY LOVE IT, it shows you're interested in their class and are working hard. Study a little bit here and there and don't push off that paper until the night before. It's just like your teachers in high school are telling you.
Socially, try out for a sports team or join a club. UD funds all sorts of clubs I've never heard of. Be it a' capella, the rubber chickens comedy group, swing dancing, environmental club, broom ball or other sports teams (intramural and club), there HAS to be something for you to do here. Plus, you make a lot of friends (there's a huge gathering of all the clubs your first day here).
Great for these types of students
UDel is well-known for the sciences around here, especially with all of the DuPont science centers and such in this state. We also have an excellent animal science and pre-veterinary program with some reserved seats in certain vet schools. I also know we have a lot fashion majors and business and communications is extremely competitive here. If you want to have a good time and get a good education, this is the place for you! Trust me, I'm living the experience right now and I wouldn't change a thing!

Christine from Bear, DE

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
University of Delaware finds the best teachers in their fields who are not only the most intelligent, but also the most eager and willing to spread their knowledge for the benefit of others. No matter which field you are majoring in, the teachers will always go above and beyond lecturing straight out of a book. They encourage questions, research, and new ideas.
Am enjoying being here
The school has a beautiful campus, especially during the spring. There are so many easily accessible events and activities that many students can join - the university is not so immense that one feels intimidated to join clubs. Dorm life is extremely enjoyable, especially when the University takes great care to match up roommates with very similar interests and living habits.
Bang for the buck
University of Delaware is not a huge state school, but its size is its advantage - students have more educational, research, club, sport, and recreational opportunities than those in other schools with over 10k students per class. Education and student support is exceptional. University of Delaware offers everything large schools do, except with a stronger focus on the individual student and his/her interests. For the amount of options available at the University, its tuition and experience is a major deal!

Cassidy

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The University of Delaware has school spirit like no other, and a challenging education system to match. The campus is beautiful and provides student centers with game rooms, plenty of snack shops and stores, and endlessly exciting sporting events. The university offers a plethora of majors in all fields that provide a challenge while fostering personal growth with the help of compassionate and intelligent professors.
Tips for prospective students
Do not be afraid to ask for help! The environment at the University of Delaware is very friendly, even when it seems intimidating, and any of the upperclassmen are always willing to assist whenever possible. The professors make it very easy to get help as necessary through their office hours, free tutoring sessions, and organized study groups. Everyone at the University finds a niche where they belong, so don't be scared of trying something new.
Academic Rigor
Depending on what your major is, the academic classes offered are varying levels of rigorous. I am a psychology and neuroscience double major, and the classes that I have taken so far are quite challenging, but not at all impossible if you put in the right amount of work and effort when studying.
Dorm Life
I had the luxury of living in the honors dorm, Louis Redding Hall. This dorm is one of the newest ones on campus, so it was always clean and air conditioned. The janitorial staff is always working hard to keep the bathrooms clean and the hallways neat. Some of the other dorms on campus are older and do not have air conditioning, which can get a little hot and stuffy in the late spring months, but the mutual discomfort makes for great roommate bonding.
Food and Dining
Caesar Rodney Dining Hall is one of the most acclaimed college dining halls in the country, seeing as it is the biggest one on the east coast. It offers a wide selection of all kinds of dining options, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher, just to ensure that students of all diverse walks of life can enjoy a meal. The food is always fresh and tasty, and the school's ice cream shop, UDairy, is a permanent fixture in the dining hall, which is a nice touch!
What to do for fun
There are a myriad of things to do on the campus of the University of Delaware. If you enjoy the party scene, there is always an exciting nightlife on the weekends to go out and socialize with your friends. The city of Newark's famous Main Street is just a few minutes away from the heart of campus with a seemingly endless array of restaurants and shops. There are two different student centers on campus, Trabant and Perkins, with lounges, a movie theater, and game rooms. The Green is a great place to hang out, throw a frisbee, or set up a hammock with your friends, and Harrington Beach has a volleyball court and a turf to play soccer or football. No matter how you like to pass the time, you can easily to that at the University of Delaware.
Bang for the buck
As a resident of Delaware, I am a recipient of the in-state tuition, so I am not fully informed enough to make a decision on how much of a "bang for your buck" you'd get as an out-of-state student. However, for the in-state students, it definitely feels like the tuition and costs are what is to be expected. College is going to be insanely expensive no matter where you go, which is why scholarships and financial aid are so important. However, knowing that it's going to cost a great deal of money, the University of Delaware makes sure that you're getting your money's worth.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
A few minutes away from the heart of campus is UDairy Creamery, which is an ice-cream shop made from the University of Delaware's own farms. The ice cream is delicious and includes a variety of unique flavors. On The Green is a fountain that has become the iconic landmark of the university over time. It's tradition for seniors to hop into the fountain for a photo shoot before they graduate!
Great for these types of students
The University of Delaware is honestly great for any type of student. Those who are academically-focused and driven will find the courses offered and the research opportunities to be challenging and rewarding. Those who are interested in social events will find many parties to attend and a flourishing Greek life system to be a part of. Those who like the arts and music will find many clubs and groups to be a part of and make their home. Every Blue Hen has a lot of school spirit and genuinely loves and supports their school.
Clubs and Activities
There is a seemingly endless list of clubs at the University of Delaware. Animal lovers can join the puppy raising club and take care of a seeing-eye puppy for a year. There is a club for chocolate lovers, a club for video game lovers, and a club for rock-wall climbing. There is Outing Club for the adventurous, Ballroom Dance club for those looking to learn a new skill, or UDress fashion magazine for those who enjoy fashion, photography, or writing. There is The Review, a school newspaper, HAVEN, a safe organization for members of the LGBTQ+ community, or an acclaimed a cappella group for those who enjoy singing. There is something for everyone!
Greek Life
Greek life is pretty prevalent on the University of Delaware campus, but not if you do not wish to be a part of it. Plenty of students are involved with Greek life, but it is not so prominent on campus that you will feel like an outsider if you're not in a fraternity or sorority. I am personally not currently a part of Greek life, but I am considering rushing in the spring of this coming year. All of the Blue Hens that I have met who are part of a fraternity or sorority are very kind and genuine people who care a lot about their brotherhood or sisterhood and what their chapter stands for.
Campus Safety
As with any other university, there are occasionally instances on campus of questionable safety. The University police department has instated a UD Alert system in which every student at the university receives a text message alert any time a crime occurs or a warning is being issued, so students are always aware and informed of how to stay safe. As a whole, it feels very safe to walk from place to place on the University's campus and I personally do not feel worried as I move from classes to work to my dorm or spend time in the community. The police department is very friendly and willing to listen and work to make the campus a safer place.

Diana

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers here really care about their students. A lot of the introductory classes are packed in terms of subject matter and students, so your best help comes from visiting during office hours. Every class I've taken has taught me a great amount of useful material. I'd recommend taking classes as honors though, if available, because when the honors classes are a separate section they go further into real-life applications and the smaller class sizes give more opportunities to ask the professors relevant questions.
Am enjoying being here
This school has something for everyone. From its many majors to its hundreds of student organizations, there's plenty to do on campus. And its short distance to other large cities provides many options for additional things to do. Plus the campus is gorgeous, there's a great variety in food, and you'll get plenty of exercise by trying to get to class on time.
Bang for the buck
Out-of-state tuition is very high, and it's a bit crazy that they would raise tuition when we're in the middle of a recession. However, it is a great education, and the school does offer a huge amount of services. Still, you'd have to participate in a lot of different things to feel like you're getting your money's worth.
Tips for prospective students
Don't bring a car unless you're sure you need one- parking is expensive, competitive, and far away. Also, Delaware is a great place, but you need to find a group of people you fit well with - - freshman housing is good because they try to match people with similar interests. And, as with any college, there's a lot of freedom to be yourself - but it's up to you to stay on track. And lastly, be prepared for every type of weather--it's quirky.

Deanna from Mount Royal, NJ

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am so glad I chose to attend UD. It is a fairly big campus, but most of the classes are small so it allows for individual attention. The teachers are very willing to help you in and outside of class. The workload is demanding, but very worth it.
Am enjoying being here
I love the campus and atmosphere of UD. Everyone is friendly and the campus is beautiful. You will discover when you take tours. It is very peaceful outside to study or just relax. There are so many clubs and organizations to be involved with. UD is such a nice school and great environment to further your education.
Bang for the buck
University of Delaware is a bit pricey, but most students earn very nice scholarships. You won't regret spending the money by attending this school.
Tips for prospective students
Some tips would be never wait til the last day to write your essays. It is possible but with all the other work you have to accomplish, it makes life much more complicated. Also, by a lanyard for your access card and key for your dorm, because it costs a lot of money to replace them and change the locks. Lastly, don't be afraid to get involved. I wish I was more involved my freshman year.
Great for these types of students
UD is great for everyone. If you are interested in music, there is a great music program. You always have access to many practice rooms, and have a chance to really improve and learn from a great musical staff. If you are very interested in academics, teachers are willing to help you and there are plenty of places for quite studying or help centers for tutoring. The sports are great, and the football games are always fun. If you like activities, there is a club for everything. If they don't have your club, you can create it. You will enjoy your college experience by attending UD!

Kalisha from Brooklyn, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Professors are very eager to help you succeed. They are willing to work with you. You have to READ. Many students think going to class will be enough to pass, but most of the exam questions are answered through readings. Also, it reinforces what you learned in class. Don't miss class, many teachers love pop quizzes because students don't feel the need to go to class. Remember you're paying for each lecture so you might as well attend the class session!
Am enjoying being here
I love my school, dorm, friends. What more can I ask for? It is easily accessible to trains so I can head home when things get tough and my mom comes to visit often and stays at the campus hotel so I can get away for a few days! It is amazing. The dorm I live in is one of the newest build and I can control my heat and A/C. I also have my own bathroom, well I have suite mates but it's more convenient sharing with three people than a whole floor. Food isn't all that great but there is always a salad bar, pasta bar and vegetarian meals. Specialty nights are fun also! I mean, it was the perfect fit for me. I love the clean and welcoming environment our school maintains. Very little crime and I am always safe! Also, there is always something to do. I love the movie series, $3 to see movies that came out within the past year and aren't on DVD yet! That is a steal =]
Bang for the buck
Although I love UD, I find myself dishing out more than my family can afford. As an out-of state student my tuition is paid by private student loans. That is about $24,000 in loans per years, so you do the math. By the time I graduate, find a good career and start paying off my loans this would probably be increased by some interest percentage. But, you do get a lot for your tuition price. Housing, resources, and a guaranteed job if you take all the necessary steps to make it happen!
Tips for prospective students
Make use of all the resources on campus. Many students don't step foot into the writing center, academic enrichment center or career services until their senior year. These are places that are there to help you from the start! Good luck!
Great for these types of students
Students who know how to manage their time! The friendlier the better, everyone is always happy and in the good mood. So many random people smile at me daily! It's heart warming. Also, school spirit is a must! UD is known for their Blue and Gold!!

Sarah from Pennsville, NJ

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
University of Delaware courses are not easy A's. I find them challenging, but not to the point where they are impossible. Most professors are really great when it comes to office hours, answering e-mails quickly, and keeping their SAKAI pages up-to-date (SAKAI is UD's way of allowing professors to post lecture slides, announcemets, and class syllabi). Most classes are large lecture halls, but professors are always available during their office hours so having 300 other students in your 10 AM class honestly is not a problem. The school is also very recognizable, which is very helpful when applying for jobs or explaining to relatives where you want to attend.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is beautiful. This is obvious to anyone who enters Newark. Plus, Main Street being 5 minutes away from most residence halls is an added plus. Main Street is home to various restaurants and food shops, shopping, tanning, and much more. I also love the convenience and ease of the locations of fitness centers on campus. I'll admit, UD is pretty much a party school, but that doesn't mean you have to party to enjoy yourself. There's always so much to do!
Bang for the buck
UD is expensive for out-of-state students. Generally, in-state students receive the most financial aid and scholarships. However, I definitely would not say the prices are unreasonable. You'll definitely receive a one-of-a-kind education attending this ACCREDITED university. Dining plans are optional for all students, and their prices are pretty reasonable. Russell and Pencader dining halls are the most popular, while Kent is open for continuous dining, and Rodney/Dickinson dining hall almost consistently receives poor reviews. Luckily, I was assigned to Russell and I can enjoy decent dining everyday. Also included in your bill is a health services fee. The health center provides 24/7 medical care for UD students. They have both nurses and physicians working to assist students with their medical needs. I've visited student health several times this past semester and I was pretty satisfied with my experience. Also available is parking, but the prices are pretty intimidating at first.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure the University understands your love of the school. While grades, GPA, and class rank are very important, the essay and recommendations are also highly considered in the decision process. I was actually wait-listed for the nursing program before writing Admissions a short e-mail explaining both my love of the University and my respect of its programs. Also remember to try and offer things other students can't. Display your talents, heritage, and interests as much as possible.
Great for these types of students
I know both liberal and conservative students. I am friends with both partiers and the type of people who stay in on Friday and Saturday nights. Because it is such a large school, the diversity that is present is very apparent while walking around campus. Although caucasians are the great majority, the University insists that it is diverse. I also know that gay/lesbian individuals are accepted AND respected on campus. The most important thing to consider when choosing any university is: can you see yourself living, learning, loving, and working here for the next four (or more) years?

Cristina from Valley Cottage, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors at UD know the material that they are teaching very well and have great teaching tactics, usually depending on the subject. Most teachers get you involved in lecture, while others (like chemistry, where not much involvement is possible) just talk. there are many opportunities for students, for instance, students majoring in exercise science (PT), can volunteer at the PT lab and get first year hands on experience! Every opportunity is there just take advantage and be open minded!
Am enjoying being here
UD has a beautiful campus, one of it's many great qualities. The campus is always clean, the dining hall has many food options and actually tastes pretty good. for holidays, they decorate the dorms and dining halls and have special dinners like thanksgiving and Christmas. There is a movie theatre where new movies not yet on DVD are played, concerts (maroon 5 this past novemeber) and 10 minutes from campus (an easy walk) there is main street where there are many stores, restaurants and coffee shops. There are many parties at UD, and for those who don't party, they have campus activities like clubs, so, go out and get involved!
Tips for prospective students
i did really well in hs and i thought i'd have no problem in college, but i just finished my first semester as freshman here and my biggest tip is KEEP FOCUSED, you're in college for a reason. your friends live in the same dorm as you, so it's easy to get interupted and side traceked- BE STRONG! work first play later!.i promise, it's worth the hard work. classes here are not easy, it's not going to be a breeze so make sure you get ahead on your hw and study at least 3 to 4 days in advanced for a test. cram sessions aren't really that effective. of course you'll pull an all nighter or two for studying, but try not to make it a habit, you need your sleep. trust me!! eat right, do your work, hit the gym and get a good nights rest. you'll be happy you did when you get that 3.4 GPA if not better.
Great for these types of students
UD is a great place for students who are not afraid to step outside of their comfort zone. everyone here is very friendly and willing to have a good time. UD has a great Physical therapy program, and a great business program as well. If you're up for a challange but a good time as well, UD is the place for you!