PoliSci gal

The best thing about Yale is definitely its students -- everyone is incredibly smart, talented, passioante about whatever they do, and ambitious. At the same time, Yalies know how to have a good time, and Yalies are very fun, friendly, and down-to-earth. Overall, it is fantastic to be surrounded by all of these unique and interesting people. The residential college system is also terrific -- you spend four years with a microcosm of Yale, living and eating with people that you may not have crossed paths with at another school. The college system brings a great sense of community and continuity to Yale, and allows you to befriend and interact with people from all walks of life.

The academics can't be beat! Professors are engaging, students are passionate, the readings are generally interesting. There are large lecture classes and smaller seminars, and both are a great way to learn.

Yale draws the best and brightest from all over the world, but also focuses on finding people who are personable and passionate. There is a lot of diversity on campus in all senses of the words: different geographic origins, different ethnicities and religions, different socioeconomic backgrounds, different majors, different interests, and different goals. No two Yalies are alike, but what they all share is a love of Yale and a desire to change the world in some way.

There's so much to do on campus! On any given weekend, I am torn between seeing one of five plays, one of four dance performances, one of three a cappella concerts, one of ten sports games, or attending one of a dozen parties. There is something for everyone, and the problem is always narrowing down your activities rather than not finding enough to interest you.

Some stereotypes are that Yale students are very smart, ambitious, and that some are pretentious or snobby.

Some stereotypes -- that Yalies are very smart and ambitious -- are very true. However, Yalies are also incredibly down to earth; I have come across very few snobby or pretentious people, and actually have been amazed to find how friendly and fun everyone is.

Going to Yale was the best decision I ever made!