Samford: The Big Picture
Samford is the best university in Alabama (in my opinion). If you tell someone you're a student here (at least for me), they'll think you're disciplined, motivated, and very smart to be here and remain here in good standing. It's challenging academically, but well worth it. The size of the school and classes are just right; the people are usually friendly, and the town itself is bustling. You can find plenty to do.
Samford Academic Life
My professors usually know my name; class size permits this. Students tend toward loving academia, esp. in their field. Classes are really tough compared to other colleges around here...I know from experience. I'd suggest being disciplined, motivated, and having the attitude that you're going to make it. Their academic requirements are rigorous... including having to know/learn a foreign language to graduate (for most majors). The core cirriculum, gen. ed cirriculum, and major classes tend to make you tired after a while. Be determined; have patience. Samford students on a large scale have great success getting into grad/med/pharm schools and getting jobs. Some employers have actually said that, when presented with two identical employees (as far as credentials go), they have chosen a Samford student just because of that. We have a great rep., but I truly believe it's because you have to go through quite a bit to graduate. It doesn't come easy, and it is not handed to you.
Samford's Student Body
The student body tends toward Christian Caucasian students. There quite a bit of African-American students (I am one), and a few other religions. Many students' parents have money...some don't, and I know many students here on sports scholarships. They seem not to want to give out scholarship money quickly or to many types of people. Most students seem to be very conservative, but not all of us. There are many groups on campus for just about anything. Some students dress up for class; some don't. I can't see anyone being blatantly out of place here... short, tall, skinny, plump... on a whole scale we accept everyone as they are. You'll always have people who are racist though...or are otherwise discriminatory.
Samford Student Activities + Social Life
I'm not sure what the "most" popular groups are here. They all seem pretty active. You do have to get convo credits though... but they don't have to be chapels. Certain concerts, plays, lectures, etc. can count. We have guest speakers, famous people, events, etc. all the time. You can find many things to do in spare time... it depends on what you into.
