Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN, USA

Reviews

Vanderbilt University

K from Atlanta, GA

a current student here
117 people found this review useful
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Am learning a lot
Vanderbilt is often confused with one of them Ivy League schools up in Connecticut or wherever, but with good reason. If you choose to attend the prestigious Vanderbilt University then you will receive a very fine education from professors who want you to succeed in acing their classes, reaching your goals, and finding your future. Professors will make time for you outside of class if you do not understand the material; they put themselves in our lives to teach us and they desperately want us to learn. The work at Vandy is not at all easy, but it is do-able. Plan on studying, reading, making notes, and attending classes regularly. That might sound miserable to you, but at Vandy many of your fellow students will be doing all this work right along side you...so you will never feel alone. A good GPA and any Vanderbilt degree will get you worthwhile internships and successful jobs. But, learning does not stop outside of the classroom at Vandyland. You can learn about your country and world by making friends from all over the earth, working with volunteer groups who build homes, spend time with refugee children, feed the hungry, play with kids in Vanderbilt's children's medical center, and even play with dogs at animal shelters. Nashville, TN itself provides opportunities to learn about music, art, and rich history of the United States. The learning never ends at Vandy, whether you're sitting in class, cheering at a sporting event, dancing at a party, wandering through an art museum, chilling to sweet music, attending a benefit for a charity, or roofing a home for needy Nashville neighbor. Fitting all these learning opportunities into your schedule can be difficult and at times mind-boggling, but the well-rounded education you will receive at Vanderbilt will help you develop into a more informed, greater, and caring individual than when you first arrived on Vanderbilt's campus.
Am enjoying being here
Just read below and I think it will be more than obvious why I enjoying being at Vanderbilt University.
Bang for the buck
Vanderbilt is currently ranked #18 in the nation, tied with Notre Dame and Emory. Many of you prospective students may be wondering, Why should I pay $37,000 per year for my college tuition? In order to attend an equivalently ranked school, you would only be paying about $700 less for Emory and about $300 less for Notre Dame.
But, please give me a chance to convince you that the experience and education that Vanderbilt has to offer is worth your $300 - $700 extra dollars.

1) Vanderbilt provides a great balance between work and play. Many students live by the motto: work hard, play harder...so if partying is your thing then you will find plenty of opportunities to reward yourself for all of your A's and your well-earned B's. But, the great thing about Vandy is that if you prefer not to hang around the party scene scattered with frat juice, black lights, the Ying Yang Twins, and party fouls, then you too are not alone. There are plenty of work-a-holics that can find pure joy and soothing happiness simply by correctly solving a differential equation, but don't want the buzz of a cool beer to help relax their nerves.

2) Vandy is a great place to make friends from all over the U.S. and the world. I had the opportunity to go to one of my state universities, but after visiting my friends there I realized how happy I was that I had decided to go to Vanderbilt instead. All of my friend's friends were the same people from our high school or other people from our state. They had learned nothing about other parts of our glorious country or world through their friendships. At Vanderbilt, I have friends from California, New York, Montana, Maryland, Wisconsin, Texas, Japan, Florida, India, North Carolina, Great Britain, Ohio, Missouri, Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Massachusetts, Tennessee...do you get the point? I have friends living all over our planet...I mean, how awesome is that! Many students at Vanderbilt are open to having fri...
Tips for prospective students
-well written and creative essays are key
-while your GPA and the SAT are important, they are by far not the only things that matters
-Vanderbilt seeks well-rounded students, who excel in several different areas of life
-Vandy stresses balance; while the school wants to help educate you, they also want you to take advantage of the social, volunteer, and local opportunities that Vandy and Nashville have to offer
-get to know your admission counselor and keep in touch with him/her...don't be annoying, but send an occasional e-mail reminding them about that one time you all met, or why you love Vandy so much
-try to come visit Vanderbilt when classes are in session, stay with a student for a night, and attend a class...this might give you a small taste of what Vanderbilt is like...it should be more realistic than taking a tour
-meet with a professor and ask him/her questions about a course or a major
Great for these types of students
-smart students, but that's a given
-really any kind of person though, but you MUST be willing to work and willing to pursue your dreams...there are many talented students at Vandy and they will outshine you if you do not put forth an effort and a desire to succeed
-Eager students; whether you're eager to make friends, make A's, or make yourself known for something...then come to Vanderbilt motivated
-students who thrive in fast-paced (intellectually and/or socially) environments
-energetic students

R from MO

a current student here
23 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Vanderbilt University is ranked 18th in the country for top universities. This means Vanderbilt takes pride in their ability to teach their students. There are a lot of classes to choose from and the professors are almost always willing to help outside of class if needed. I have only completed my freshmen year so far but I can say that I have never had a teacher decline to help me with something I didn't quite understand in the classroom. Other students can also be a great resource for help because everyone who gets into the school is smart in some way or another. You will learn a lot from the classroom, your peers, and Nashville if you attend Vanderbilt.
Am enjoying being here
I am from a small rural town in MO and that is not my style of living. I prefer to live in suburbs or a city and Nashville offers a great mix of both. Exploring the city while you have free time is always great because there is always something new to discover. The music scene is great as well and should be - considering Nashville is known as Music City, USA. Vanderbilt University is a very nice looking college. There is so many plants and trees around you that you honestly feel like you are walking through a park on your way to class and that provides for a great atmosphere. The buildings are mixed with old style architecture and modern buildings, also pleasing to the eye. The greek scene is pretty huge. Many of activities and community service to do.
Bang for the buck
Vanderbilt always has great events on campus. All kinds too - comedians, music groups, magicians, dancers, sporting events, and many more. Last year we had guests such as Lil Wayne, T.I., The Flaming Lips, a comedian that appears on Chelsea Lately occasionally, and the co-author or the great book 'Freakonomics'. The education is top notch, just make sure they have your intended area of study and take a look at the class offerings. The financial aid services at Vandy are excellent and the staff is incredibly nice. The only reason I gave it 4 stars was because I wish the school was a little bit less expensive but it is worth it.
Tips for prospective students
Check out the majors and classes and make sure you will like what they have. The Commons for freshmen living is amazing. Everyone at Vandy is nice for the most part so ask any questions you have, don't hesitate.
Great for these types of students
If you want to go greek you picked a great top-notch education school that still has a good greek system. However, if you don't go greek there is still plenty to do. I am not greek and I still enjoy myself and have plenty of friends who did not go greek.

The work load can be demanding, so be prepared for some extra studying if you want to do well.

L from Chicago, IL

a current student here
19 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Last semester, my 3rd at Vandy, was the first time I began to understand This is why I am at Vanderbilt. Never have I been as challenged intellectually. As an education major, it was important for me to see that Vanderbilt's high rankings were more than just for show. My professors were among the best in their field, cited endlessly in notable research, yet they were able to make their knowledge accessible to undergraduate students. Furthermore, most of my major courses averaged 8 people per class, allowing me to develop close relationships with professors and creating much time for discussion of classes or for help and clarification. At Vanderbilt, I'm learning more than remedial tools and knowledge for becoming an educator; I'm learning the importance of using the individual students as the basis for my instruction and taking a research-based approach to implementing practices in the classroom. The course readings were not pages I skimmed as I crammed for tests, only to forget them a short while later. Instead, they are materials that are practical and applicable, that will no doubt aid me in the future as a teacher. Vanderbilt makes sure you're well-rounded and not just focused on your major. Other classes I have taken include American Popular Music, History of Fashion and Costume Design, and Avant Garde Cinema.
Am enjoying being here
Greek Life is a big part of Vanderbilt social life and being in a sorority has absolutely enhanced my college experience. Not only have I made some of the best friends in my entire life, it has been the best asset in networking with people for jobs and studying for classes. Vanderbilt has a programming board which brings top artists for concerts (such as O.A.R and Jay-Z this year) and has random free events such as Casino Night. When I am not in the Vandy bubble, I am probably using my Vandy Card to go eat at the many restaurants that Vanderbilt allows you to eat at using your student ID! I love that Vanderbilt is in Music City, USA because there are always great concerts in Nashville. My favorite this school year- Regina Spektor! My biggest gripe with the school is that school spirit at sporting events is typically low. Maybe it's due to the fact that most students wear sundresses and khakis to football games? Also, there are sooooo many organizations and intramural sports here, and many students start their own clubs to continue high school interests.
Bang for the buck
A top-notch research university
+ a work hard/play hard mentality
+ renowned faculty
+ a great city with lots of cultural avenues
= a great bang for your buck!
Tips for prospective students
VISIT! VISIT! VISIT!
To be honest, Vanderbilt looks a lot like any other top university on paper. Coming to this campus sealed my decision. The students were so friendly, and the campus was beautiful. Come to campus, sit in on a class, and ask if you can stay a night in a dorm room, you'll really get a feel for the campus.
Great for these types of students
The average Vanderbilt student believes in balance and although they're working hard to have good grades for med school and are president of their favorite volunteer organization (for example), they're not going to miss the opportunity to party most weekends (and weekdays.) The Vanderbilt student is usually highly motivated and outgoing.
WARNING: The average Vanderbilt student does not care about sports. This is not your Big Ten/SEC let's-dress-up-fanatically-in-our-school-colors school. If that is one of your biggest criterion, you will be highly disappointed.

Go 'Dores!

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
As a student at Vanderbilt, you will have the opportunity to take classes from some of the leading researchers and scholars in the nation. I never cease to be amazed by the incredible depth of intelligence my professor's possess. And what's so great about them is that they truly go out of their way to get to know you, in both and academic and personal setting. It is not uncommon for professors to go out for lunch, coffee, or coffee with their students and engage in intellectual discussions, as well as just taking up the opportunity of getting to know their students better. For example, I met one of my professors out for lunch for help on a paper, and we ended up discussing not only my paper but delving into political theory for an hour and a half. I have gone into my chemistry teacher's office, a class of about 200, and she knew my name individually and asked me questions about my future, my major,etc and ended up giving me some of the best academic (and life) advice I've received.
This learning experience does not stop in the classroom, however. First of all, you are among some of the smartest students in the country. Students are not competitive and legitimately enjoy helping each other, resulting in study groups as well as close friendships. Being around peers of various backgrounds who've had their own unique experiences has been a learning experience in and of itself. Vanderbilt also offers students several one-on-one opportunities with scholars from all around the country. The school hosts seminars and lectures from experts in every field, allowing students to get up close and personal with people such as international diplomats, former presidents, famous writers, and medical experts.
Am enjoying being here
I could not be happier in my college experience than I've been at Vanderbilt for the last year and a half. Vandy offers students rigorous academics, an engaged student body, and an active social scene all located in one of the most exciting locations, Nashville, Tennessee. What I like most is that Vandy is all about balance-a work hard, play hard mentality. Vanderbilt students are some of the brightest in the country, but you would have a hard time finding any that are not involved in AT LEAST two or three extracurricular activities, ranging from volunteering to student government to Greek life to multi-cultural clubs. Vandy students are very engaged in their community on and off-campus, and their passionate, outgoing personalities balance the challenging academic load wonderfully.
Bang for the buck
The resources and opportunities available to you as a Vanderbilt University graduate are definitely worth the hefty tag. First of all, the financial aid and scholarship program are fantastic! The new expanded aid program assures no student graduates owing the university any money, a huge relief to students planning to continue to graduate school, and to me, a great indicator of how important the quality of life is to university administration.
Tips for prospective students
Getting in to Vanderbilt is certainly not easy, but definitely worth striving for. You will need a well-written essay that reflects your interests and personality in a way the rest of the application does not. Your standardized scores and high school record are important as well. Make sure you demonstrate that you have taken every opportunity to challenge yourself in your high school career. The admissions office will take into account the high school you went to and the opportunities that were available to you, so be sure you show that you took advantage of what was available. Finally, be sure you demonstrate your well-rounded qualities. Vanderbilt students are more than just academic, so admissions wants to see that you were involved outside of your schoolwork, including your volunteer activities, leadership positions, and extracurricular involvements.
Great for these types of students
Vanderbilt is ideal for students looking for more than an academic experience in college. Sure, you will receive on of the best educations available (#18 in the country to be exact), but if you plan on sitting in your room and studying all of the time, not taking an active and participatory roles in on-campus organizations or off-campus opportunities, Vanderbilt is not the school for you.

Andi from Chagrin Falls, OH

a current student here
12 people found this review useful
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In three sentences
Vanderbilt University is an outstanding private university with high-achieving students with diverse interests and involvements. Located in Nashville, TN, the school is in the perfect place for students to live in a college community, but also venture into the city and explore. This academic institution provides challenging courses, but also a wonderful and supportive collegiate community.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for financial aid and scholarships-- Vanderbilt is very generous in this area and even offers several full-merit scholarships
Keep an open-mind-- even though Vanderbilt is known for being a traditional school in the South and well as having a large Greek population, there are many students on campus who don't fit the stereotype
Academic Rigor
Vanderbilt has the reputation of "work hard, play hard' and students here certainly live up to this statement. Many of the introductory courses like biology and calculus are considered to be "weed-out courses" that may surprise high-achieving high school students entering their freshman year. However, if you are able to keep up with your studies, go to office hours, and avoid procrastinating, it is very possible to do well and succeed in whatever area of study you would like to pursue
Dorm Life
The freshman living situation is one that builds a great sense of community and one of the most outstanding experience of the four years. The living space occupied by freshman known as "The Commons" is composed of 10 dorms in which students are randomly sorted. This makes it easy for freshman to easily form friendships and find community within their house. There is a great deal of pride associated with living in each house, and like Harry Potter, the houses compete in the Commons Cup. All freshman and most sophomores live in doubles or triples. Upperclassmen are able to live in suite style apartments, most of which include a kitchen and private bathroom.
Food and Dining
Vanderbilt dining has won several awards for being outstanding in their quality of food and service. The campus consists of three main dining centers as well as several other smaller dining options to choose from. The food on Commons is considered to be the best on campus with a rotating menu of delicious options at the Chef's Table including salmon, steak, and pasta. This accompanies other options including the Wok, the Grill, the Pasta and Pizza station, as well as a soup and dessert section. Because of the multitude of options, it is difficult to get tired of this one dining center alone. The other dining center located in the Student Center has the Grill, Sandwich Station, Texmex, Lunch Paper, Chef's Bistro, and Bowls section which serves ancient grains with meat and vegetable toppings and ramen at night. Finally, the Kitchen has rotating menu of international cuisine as well as unique breakfast options. Other places to dine include Bamboo Bistro serving pho, Grins Vegetarian Cafe, the Pub serving traditional pub food, as well as cafes within libraries. In addition to the multitude of restaurant-quality options, there are also "munchie marts" that offer prepackaged food options for those on the go.
What to do for fun
Nashville is an up-and-coming city with a fantastic music scene and night-life. There is live music playing on every corner downtown as new singer-songwriters emerge from this city. Nashville has great hipster places to grab coffee or brunch with friends or a hearty Southern meal. Centennial Park is a wonderful park to go for a run and even go inside the Parthenon, a full-size replica of the one in Athens. In addition to trendy neighborhoods like the Gulch and 12South that include fantastic restaurants and shops, East Nashville is also great place to eat and shop.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Every year, Vanderbilt hosts four cultural showcases: Diwali, ANYF, Harabee, and Caf�© con Leche. Within these showcases, students sign up for certain cultural dances and practice over the course of several weeks to perform the choreographed dances in front of the rest of the student population. Hundreds of dancers perform in each showcase to give a taste of culture from which the dance derives.
Clubs and Activities
Vanderbilt hosts hundreds of student organizations, including cultural, athletic, musical, and service-oriented organizations. At the beginning of every year, Vanderbilt holds a student organization fair which advertises an overwhelming amount of organizations. This includes Alternative Spring Break, Girls who Code, Vanderbilt Student Government, and others. It is easy to get involved, but difficult to choose which ones you would like to get involved in. If you don�t see one that fits your interests, you can easily start your own organization.

Greek Life
The Greek presence on Vanderbilt�s campus is quite substantial. Over 40% of the student population is Greek. Most sororities and fraternities have houses on campus, but only those in board positions live within the houses, allowing more opportunities for mixing of different Greek members as well as Greek and non-Greek students. Rush takes place in the fall for males and in the spring for females. While there are certain pressures to become Greek, it is not the be-all, end-all. There are more ways to get connected than simply through Greek life.

Campus Safety
Even after a late night of studying in the library, I feel incredibly safe walking around campus to get back to my room. There are emergency lights that immediately put you in touch with the Vanderbilt Police Department when you are in need of help. The majority of campus is well-lit and additionally, there is an escort service which allows you to take a ride with the police if you are not feeling safe to walk on campus on your own.

Walisha from Louisville, KY

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Choosing to attend Vanderbilt was, quite honestly, one of the most wise decisions I have ever made in my short, 20 year life!!! Vanderbilt offers a wide variety of opportunities for all of it's students. From hosting a beautiful campus, to taking an active stance on student health, to making sure every students is represented, Vanderbilt offers not only a high-quality education, but also a well rounded program suited for any individual!!
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you are prepared to put in work. Nothing good in life comes easy!!!
Academic Rigor
I most definitely spend a lot of time studying, and the courses are challenging, but the professors are wonderful and are always happy to help you out!!
Dorm Life
The dorms are not pent-house suites, but they are not prison cells, either. Freshman dorms are awesome, and there are other houses that offer very nice amenities and rooms- from hardwood floors to marble lobbies (Branscomb).
Food and Dining
The food is amazing! Vanderbilt does an excellent job at providing numerous different choices for dining. Also, Vanderbilt is partnered with many restaurants (including Chilis, TGI Fridays, Wendys, Qdoba, etc) and they all take the Commodore Card!!
What to do for fun
Many people like to go out, but for the gaming geeks like me, we prefer to use the huge lecture hall computers and projectors for late-night movies and Call of Duty gaming sessions!!!
Bang for the buck
Yes, Vanderbilt is expensive, but the opportunities that are to be had here are most definitely worth it.
Greek Life
Going to greek parties is usually the thing to do if you just want to go out, but there is by no means any pressure to join any sorority/fraternity!! Doing so is simply a bonus, not a requirement.
Campus Safety
Although Vanderbilt is located near downtown Nashville (which is a plus for the party-goers), the Vanderbilt police, who go through the campus in cars and on bikes, ensure that every student is safe.

C from Georgia

a current student here
9 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Vanderbilt University is an institution geared towards challenging its students academically in order to ensure a successful future. However, there are resources such as 24-hour tutoring and extensive office hours to help with the rigorous work. With talented professors, stellar academic and research opportunities and an environment that fosters personal growth (not to mention spectacular food), there's a reason that Vanderbilt University students were rated the happiest in the nation.
Tips for prospective students
If you're looking to get into Vandy, keep in mind that you need not only top grades but also meaningful (quality over quantity, unless the quantity is too small) community service and extracurricular experience. Show them that you care deeply about things unrelated to your GPA or class rank as well.
Academic Rigor
Top notch academics and the rigor to go with them. When people say the first semester is the most difficult, they are not kidding. Adjusting to the rigor of the classes here means studying steadily- no cramming- and maybe even a bit of *gulp* tutoring. All is well, there are many resources on campus the help you along in your classes to certify that your GPA does not tank.
Dorm Life
All the freshman live on a part of campus called the Commons in 10 different houses. About half of the houses are older but renovated and the other half were newly built in 2007. By living with other freshmen exclusively, it creates a sense of community where everyone is pretty much going through the same struggles. The houses compete all year to win the Common's Cup- a tradition that builds further community within respective houses.
PSA: North house rocks
Food and Dining
There are two main dining halls on campus- one on the Commons and another on main campus called Rand. Both offer a variety of foods daily from Korean beef short-rib to pasta fagioli to chicken quesadillas. The larger dorms, such as Branscomb and Kissam, also offer cafeterias in their interiors open to all students. The Taste of Nashville program provides students with money each semester to dine at a variety of restaurants within walking distance from campus.
What to do for fun
Although Nashville is considered the home of country music, there is much more to offer than a Brad Paisley concert. Many artists like J. Cole come through Nashville monthly either on tours or other work in music city. There is also a live theater near campus that holds musicals and even a symphony- all at a discounted price for students. Many restaurants are within walking distance of campus and downtown Nashville is but a 10 minute bus ride away. On campus, clubs and organizations host a number of different activities for students to participate in from cultural showcases to acapella performances to live bands. Have I mentioned that the Melodores, the first collegiate group to ever win the Sing Off, are Vandy students?
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The Vanderbilt campus is a natural arboretum, which means there are a variety of animals on campus. For one, the squirrel population outnumbers that of student by a 3:1 ratio. On a rainy evening, try walking around the Commons dining hall and don't be surprised when a cute, fluffy bunny dashes across your path.

For finals, Vanderbilt offers a variety of activities to help students de-stress. One of these is a De-Stress Fest where massages, manicures, pedicures and food are provided for students to take the edge of finals week.
Great for these types of students
Students who want to work and play hard
Students interested in study abroad and diversity studies
Future educators, engineers and prospects in the medical field
Campus Safety
While Vanderbilt does have a very fast response system and good security, it is an open campus located in a large city; therefore, there are security issues that will occur occasionally.

Ryan from Bowling Green, KY

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Academic Rigor
Saying classes here are hard is an understatement. You can take all the AP courses you want, but they still don't compare. College is all about learning how to study and maximize your intellectual potential.
Am enjoying being here
I'm convinced that Vandy combines education and social life better than any school in the nation.
Bang for the buck
Their financial aid packages are absolutely incredible. Some schools are canceling this helpful assistance, but Vandy is holding strong to it. Many would never imagine going here without it.
Tips for prospective students
Show Vanderbilt that you are a student who can add something to this community. How can your uniqueness help others and the campus as a whole?
Great for these types of students
Amazing for anyone who isn't afraid to dive into diversity and compete with some of the most well-rounded students I've ever been around.

James from Anchorage, AK

accepted here and planning to attend soon
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I am currently an incoming freshman, but already from what little experience I have had with the school, I LOVE it! Everyone I have met attending Vanderbilt have all been super nice and the faculty I have had the pleasure to work with all seem to have the students in mind. I plan on doing pre-med and so far their program seems fantastic, with detailed information for everything pre-med on their website and in their emals.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely at least apply here, even if you think it will be too expensive. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to afford it here, but Vanderbilt has given me extremely generous financial aid.
Academic Rigor
I cannot say for academic rigor yet, but Vanderbilt is a good college, so don't expect to coast through.
Dorm Life
I am set to be in a triple dorm room with two other guys and so far they both seem really nice. I have yet to move in, however.
Food and Dining
From what I can tell of the Vanderbilt dining program, all of the food will be amazing! They have a great program called Taste of Nashville that lets you use your meal plan with partnering restaurants around Nashville, not just on campus.
What to do for fun
There are a lot of clubs and intramural sports to do for fun and Greek life seems to be very popular.

A from Vandy

a past student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
It is No. 17 based on US News Best College Rankings for various aspects of what people want out of a college and graduation rate and retention performance, etc. It has invaluable research opportunities for those seeking great opportunities to further their education in their field. Vanderbilt offers a safe environment, superfluous options in dining, and spectacular opportunities to become the best you.
Tips for prospective students
Look at Rate My Professor as an invaluable tool before deciding to take a class. When choosing classes, there is an advanced option you should use when trying to find a perfect class to fit certain restrictions (whether it be time during the day, fulfilling an Axle Requirement, etc.). Cannot stress enough to do research with professors there. Get connected. Go to office hours and talk to your professors as much as you can. By doing research with them, it helps even more.
Make friends. Enjoy experiences otherwise not granted to you had you not went to such an affluent university.
Dorm Life
Depends on where you live. But for the most part, dorms are small and outdated. Kissam is GONE thank God, but there is still room for improvement. The freshman dorms are by far the nicest on campus (before College Halls of Kissam). I have no idea what College Halls will bring but I'm jealous I will miss out on that! Hank Ingram on the commons are probably the nicest with the spaciest closets. I loved Gillette for its proximity to everything. Cole is pretty chill as well as the all-male dorms. McTyiere is a language learning hall so it is conducive to learning. McGill is by far the creepiest house on campus. There are demons on the wall... and even Jesus Christ himself is painted on the wall in handcuffs on his journey to the cross. Instead of Dirty Santa, they play Dirty Satan. Have no experience with Blakemore so cannot comment.
Food and Dining
By far the best selections ever. They are continuously updating choices and what is available. Especially the Commons area which can get old and tiring after eating there for an entire year because that is the closest option.
What to do for fun
Definitely do the Nashville touristy things if you have never been.
Visit the various areas of nashville as well.
Inside the campus:
Fraternity parties are a must. Extracurricular Activities. Vanderbilt football and basketball and baseball games. Ummmmm typical college-lifestyle stuff. Walk around campus, do homework outside in the grass. Play frisbee. Etc. etc. Check out the Centennial Park just across the street from campus.
Bang for the buck
I mean just saying you go to Vanderbilt will give you high accolades around the Nashville area. Most things are within a 15-minute-walk walking distance around the campus. There are 10 various libraries to choose to study from. Many research opportunities that I cannot stress enough, and just the cultural influence and push from those around you.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Diwali is celebrated, which I love! Along with many other cultural traditions not traditional of just simple Americans. They will have cultural food nights where you get to try cuisine of other cultures.
Great for these types of students
Academically studious and those who want to become teachers. Most popular major is by far HOD (which I was not) but most people start off as something else and end up going Human Organizational Development route.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many activities and things to do and ways to get involved that sometimes it can become overwhelming.
Greek Life
A MUST if you are a girl. 50% of all girls are. There is a greater push to be Greek at Vandy as well. Only about 40% of males.
Campus Safety
It is pretty good. No place is perfect, and stuff does happen. But for the most part it is pretty safe.