College of William and Mary Top Questions

My answer might be more negative than most, because I have not had a good experience here so far. But most everyone I talk to here loves it. With that said, in my opinion, the education here is great if you want to be a doctor, lawyer, or some kind of scientist, but not if you truly enjoy just learning. I have yet to have a discussion I have enjoyed (and I have taken "seminar" classes). The professors do not seem to respect your opinion or thoughts, and just want to you memorize and agree with whatever they say. If you offer a different opinion or thought, you get shut down and the professors quickly try to prove that you are wrong. (Again, I might just be unlucky in the classes that I've taken). If you like history, you will love this school! Colonial Williamsburg is right next to campus, and all the buildings are old and filled with history. I like the school's size. It is large enough that you can have a personal life that everyone doesn't know about, but small enough that your classes aren't huge. Sports are usually a joke here. Especially when it comes to football! I would personally suggest just removing the football team. I've met plenty of seniors that have never been to a game. In general, the school does not even pretend to care about the team. Last year they won 2 games the entire season. The school has a really great name, and I think there are plenty of people here for that reason. Saying you went to W&M can open up a lot of doors.

Good

I really like William and Mary, and I am so glad I decided to come here. I could not imagine going anywhere else. One thing I always tell people is that it is the perfect size. It's big enough that I could never know everyone, yet small enough that I see people that I know as I walk around campus. It's always cool when I tell people that I go to William and Mary, because they always respond that it is such a great school for academics. I definitely agree. The students here are very proud of their school. Rarely do I walk through campus and not see at least every other person wearing some sort of William and Mary clothes. One of my favorite things about this campus is how beautiful it is. There are trees everywhere and that combined with the old buildings makes it look idyllic, especially on sunny days.

As I struggle through the heavy courseload at William and Mary, I find myself still managing to have a good time, largely due in part to the friends I have made so far in my college career. At William and Mary, the student body is relatively small (approximately 5800 undergraduates), but is diverse in such a way that everyone is able to find their niche within the school. William and Mary prides itself on the sense of community that it establishes through the diverse population it manages to draw each year. Since it is a public school in the state of Virginia, most students hail Virginia (specifically Northern Virginia, affectionately dubbed NoVa) as home; however, the backgrounds and interests of students is overwhelmingly unique. As William and Mary's reputation and outreach to international students, in particular in Asian countries, the diversity of the student body will only continue to increase. Because the student body is small enough to interact with in a meaningful way on campus, but large enough to find individuals who share my interests, the relationships I have established have been the best part about my time at the College. After returning home for holidays and talking with friends, family, and strangers about my experiences at William and Mary, nearly everyone has a relative or close friend that went to there; "wonderful school" is a typical phrase I hear when telling people I attend William and Mary. But once back on campus, I spend much of my time in the library (fulfilling the typical W&M student stereotype) or at the gym. Many of my friends enjoy using the gym facilities as much as I do, and it's always great to catch up and stay in shape at the same time. William and Mary is located in the City of Williamsburg, which is a well-known colonial-era tourist attraction, a fact that sort of loses its excitement after about the first week of freshman year. Aside from the colonial section of Williamsburg, there isn't much in the way of nightlife, which is one of the largest student complaints upon arriving to William and Mary. However, other students and myself still manage to find fun things to do on campus. There are often campus-run events on the weekends (such as movie-showings and live entertainment), as well as just hanging out with friends or catching a movie in New Town, a shopping center a short car or bus ride away from campus. The school administration is somewhat strict, especially in their rulings of student misdeeds, but is fair. William and Mary has the oldest honor code in the country, something that all faculty and students take seriously. The undergraduate honor council handles issues of cheating, lying, etc., and the fact that it is student-run (and elected!) provides more fair rulings for students with the additional perspective of a student presiding, even if not always lenient. Despite this sense of community around a commonly shared desire to uphold the honor code (created by a William and Mary alumnus, Thomas Jefferson), there tends to not be a great sense of school pride. William and Mary's athletic teams are not often good, which detracts from the positive environment of the College, but the students often will rally together for traditions, some of which include the Yule Log ceremony (lighting of a fire in Wren Chapel, the oldest academic building still in use in the US) and Opening Convocation for the new freshman class. One of the most memorable experiences I have had at W&M was walking through the Wren Chapel after reciting the honor code pledge and then into the bright summer sun to see all of the student body standing outside, congratulating me (as a freshman) and welcoming me to William and Mary. The sea of clapping hands and smiling faces directed at a freshman (not usually a welcome status in high school) is something that I always remember.

The College of William & Mary is an excellent school on a beautiful campus. Known for being a good school, admittance is competitive, and for those who get in, the classes are known for being extremely difficult. Because of the time that must be put into classes, the library is probably one of the most popular places on campus, especially during mid-term or final times, where there is not an empty desk to be found. Located in Historic Williamsburg, VA, the area is beautiful, but students accurately complain that there is nothing to do near the campus. The only "nightlife" in the city is found in the three bars that are located on a single corner directly across from campus. The school administration, however, does try to host many events throughout the year which gives students the opportunity to socialize and around 1/3 of students are involved in Greek life.

Best thing about W&M: The students. Friendly, intelligent, talkative, these are the people you want to know. One thing I'd change: There's always construction somewhere. Necessary, but annoying Too large, too small, or just right? Just right, college wise. Town wise it's a bit small. How people react when I tell them I go to W&M: They're impressed. We're a big name, especially for a school without that great of an athletic department Where I spend most of my time on campus: The Daily Grind, our on-campus coffee shop College town, or "what college town?: Definitely what college town? Colonial Williamsburg is right outside our door, and the rest of town may appreciate our business, but we are definitely not their target audience. My opinion of W&M's administration?: Fair, if harsh. W&M has a strict honor code and code of conduct, and the school enforces those rules, as the students expect them to. You can have fun on campus, but break our rules and there will be consequences. The biggest recent controversy on campus: The Living Wages Coalition and their attempt to raise awareness about wage issues... and the collective student body's decision to ignore and/or ridicule them for being activists for the sake of activism rather than for a legitimate cause. School pride: Tribe Pride is huge on campus. Unique to us, it's more often about our school's academic accomplishments rather than athletic ones, but our teams inspire Tribe Pride as well. We know when our teams are good, and we cheer them on regardless. Something unusual about W&M: Built in 1693, it's the second oldest college in the country. Also, it's actually a university, but we thought 'College of William & Mary' sounded cooler :) One experience I'll always remember: Jumping the wall... again... and again. We have a tradition called the triathlon, the three parts of which are jumping the Governor's palace wall, swimming the Crim Dell, and streaking the Sunken Garden. One of those I've done repeatedly, one just once and never again, and one is yet to come... Student complaints: The food could use some improvement, and parking is terrible. Also, SO MUCH READING.

With about 6,000 undergrad students, this school is, for the most part, the right size for me. During the fall semester, I sometimes find myself wishing that it was 25 or 30,000 strong and that we had a nationally ranked football program, but we still have a prestigious program for Division IAA. Otherwise, the school is the perfect size because it's big enough so as to provide you with plenty of opportunities both academically and socially, but not so big as to overwhelm me. I've always wondered what it would be like to go to a school like Florida that is 50,000 students where I hear they take some introductory courses online and where you can meet someone freshman year and never run into them again in four years. Students sometimes give Williamsburg a bad rap, and it is somewhat deserved. One of the biggest student complaints is not with the school or administration but with the city, particularly in reference to off-campus students. The city has a "three-person rule" which prevents more than three unrelated people from living in the same house. It is often disputed and often violated, and makes it a hassle for students who find larger off-campus houses to live in. As far as the night life/ social scene, students choose between fraternities and other off-campus parties and the bars. There are currently three bars that students frequent and while that doesn't seem like a lot, I like it because it provides enough space and choice but also allows you to run into people there that you weren't planning on seeing. There are at least two and maybe three others being built right now, and the school and town seem to actually be making some efforts at improving this aspect, which is certainly a positive. One of the most redeeming aspects of telling people I go to this school is the opinion they immediately have. I say William and Mary and it is without fail followed by either "that's a great/outstanding/terrific school" or "wow you must be really smart." The former is true, and I have no problem letting people believe the latter even if it may not be totally accurate.

With about 6,000 undergrad students, this school is, for the most part, the right size for me. During the fall semester, I sometimes find myself wishing that it was 25 or 30,000 strong and that we had a nationally ranked football program, but we still have a prestigious program for Division IAA. Otherwise, the school is the perfect size because it's big enough so as to provide you with plenty of opportunities both academically and socially, but not so big as to overwhelm me. I've always wondered what it would be like to go to a school like Florida that is 50,000 students where I hear they take some introductory courses online and where you can meet someone freshman year and never run into them again in four years.

I don't like it. too small. They don't know what I am talking about.

I would change the ability to get into classes. Most teachers in big lecture classes are willing to let you in, but other than that it's difficult. I love the size of W&M: it's small enough to see people you know a lot but big enough to see people you don't know too. I'm from out of state, so a lot of people my own age don't know the school, but a lot of parents I know do and respond well. The school's administration is really starting to crack down on Greek life which is annoying because they didn't do anything particularly wrong and there really hasn't been a problem. They just really don't want kids drinking underage, but with the stress that comes with getting good grades at the college, students need an outlet and they're taking it away. If you want a crazy party school, this is not the school for you. Overall though I LOVE W&M and most of my friends do too, but a lot of them complain about the administration but love the people who go there.

The College of William & Mary is a great place to be for achievement-oriented students who want to enjoy a peaceful college life and get an excellent education. It has a beautiful green campus, safe environment and great faculty. The small size of the school translates into the professors having more time for students and more opportunities to receive answers for individual questions. The W&M faculty as well as staff is known for being friendly and this is truly so. The location of the school in a small college town (Williamsburg) which has a large number of retired community means that it is a quiet place and has limited entertainment options. The W&M students are sports-friendly and many of them exercise regularly, however the school itself does not have strong athletic teams. Overall, it is a great school with a recognized name to receive education at.

I don't love this school; I'm hopefully transferring after this year. It's a good size, has a pretty good reputation, and great professors. The administration is horrid, especially the President. The school is more conservative than I am comfortable with despite the widespread belief that it is "very liberal". We pay our workers crappy salaries. There is no social life besides Greek life or pretentious hipster parties. My overall opinion? Ughhhhhh.

I applied to W&M thinking everyone here was going to be an intellectual, nerdy, but cool and down to earth person, but in reality it is really diverse. There are so many different types of people here, and yet, everyone gets along great and is respects one another. We may differ in our interests and passions, but our love for W&M and overall respect for others makes it a great place to learn about the world and yourself.

In all fairness, I'll admit that I'm not an average W&M student. I skipped most of orientation freshmen year, and moved off campus sophomore year. Early on, I found the environment to be ludicrously moralistic and laughably upbeat, but I suppose for most starry-eyed freshmen that's the sort of atmosphere to be desired. If you can keep a straight-face through orientation (better yet, a smiling one!), W&M might be the place for you. A lot of people say freshman year feels like summer camp. In many ways, that hits the nail on the head. On my hall, at least, few people drank and smoking cigarettes made you outcast. Caught by an RA with alcohol in my dorm room at one point, I was cycled through an impressive series of meetings and lectures, culminating with my sitting on the floor of my RA's room as he opined, "I don't get it...if you're thirsty, just have a glass of water." Yes, I'm serious. Now, my experience may not be exemplary, but it did happen. I focus on freshman year here because I expect that most people reading this are prospective students. Once I moved off-campus, the picture became much rosier.

The best thing about W&M is that it is what you make it. The community is really tight, and you can always find something to do. If you want to go out on a Tuesday, there are things going on. If you want to go study, there are tons of people in the library. If you want to join a club, odds are there is what you're looking for.

The William & Mary community is passionate. Whatever their interest - volleyball, early American history, painting, global public health, or ultimate frisbee - William & Mary students (and professors) pursue it passionately. As a campus, one thing that we are universally passionate about is public service. Each year, students here log thousands of hours of service, from volunteering at local schools to spending their breaks in other countries doing medical work. Many describe our school as having a "culture of service," and I think this is accurate. While not everyone is involved in service, such a large and vocal portion of the student body is that it's hard to miss the passion for service that pervades it. William & Mary students are super-involved anyway, with most people spreading themselves thin in multiple student organizations (of which there are over 400 on a campus of fewer than 6,000 undergraduates), but the extracurriculars to which I have seen the most commitment are service-oriented. The best thing about my school is the passion that students have for their interests and activities and that professors have about teaching. Although William & Mary churns out important research each year and can boast faculty at the forefront of their fields, professors here are most interested in teaching undergraduates. This means that not only do undergrads have the attention and care of their professors, but also that there are plenty of opportunities to get involved as an undergrad in ground-breaking research in any department. Another great thing is our physical campus. While Williamsburg certainly isn't New York City, the town has a rich history that gives it a unique flavor. Where else can you jog down a street past reconstructed colonial buildings and people dressed in early American attire? Our campus is rendered in the same colonial architectural style, and there are times when I am overwhelmed by its sheer beauty. It's also generally a very safe place, and I feel secure walking around by myself at any time of the day or night. The physical environment has contributed much to my comfort at William & Mary. The biggest controversy that recently occured was the Board of Visitor's decision not to renew the contract of our president, Gene R. Nichol. The entire school shut down for two days in protest of a decision that many saw as politically motivated (Nichol had stirred up plenty of controversy in his 2-year tenure at William & Mary, much of which surrounded his attempts to make the school more diverse and inclusive). Although most of the students, faculty, and William & Mary community stand in opposition to the Board's decision and are disappointed to see such a talented and visionary man leave, the reaction of our community is testament to the unity and pride that we have in our school. Many students staged protests and tirelessly wrote letters to the Board and to local news sources, voicing their discontent, and professors held teach-ins to discuss the events. But the important lesson of this incident is that no administrative decision can remove our unity or passion for our school, nor can it dampen the sentiments of inclusion and progressiveness that Nichol inspired.

William and Mary is smaller, which means that it is easier to get to know your professors and there is a real sense of community. There are lots of activities going on all the time and I spend most of the time on campus or within walking distance.

The best thing about W&M is its sense of tradition and history. In the colonial capital of Virginia, W&M has a beautiful campus as old as the colonies themselves. One gets a sense of pride when they walk on Old Campus, see the Wren Building, and traverse Downtown Colonial Williamsburg. Tradition is a big part of campus life. The Triathlon is a time honored event in which students jump the wall at the governors mansion and complete the maze, streak the Sunken Garden, and swim in the Crim Del. Nearly every student completes these by senior year, and I have yet to meet a student who hasn't done at least one portion. Blowout, in which students, and sometimes professors, bring alcohol to the last day of classes, is perhaps the ost looked forward to event of the year. Other cool things include taking a class in the Wren Building, the Yule Log Ceremony, and the Primal Scream.

The best thing about William and Mary is the opportunities you get here that are so unique. It's magical, actually; even the most timid person, as long as they have an interest in something, has a chance to pursue that interest in truly exciting ways. I came here because when I visited on Admitted Students' Day, there was this extremely quiet girl who got up to speak at a session on research opportunities. We could hardly hear her, and she didn't seem like an obvious choice as a speaker who was supposed to be convincing us to attend William and Mary. Then she told this story about emailing a professor about trying to get into a class that was full, and in response getting an offer to spend the summer doing research with him. This was amazing. She was clearly not the most aggressive or cutthroat of people, but here, she didn't have to be in order to have an absolutely amazing experience, and one that fit her interests perfectly. She ended up getting published with this professor-- all because of one tentative, and unrelated, email. So I decided to come here because I wanted to be able to tell a story like this. And this summer, I will be going to Kenya for six weeks to go on an archaeological dig. For free. I am able to do this because a professor I had in the fall suggested some names of people to contact. One email later, I was offered a ticket to Nairobi. I didn't have to beat out tons of my also well-qualified classmates, or brag endlessly and uncomfortably about myself, and this is the kind of thing I've only heard about happening at William and Mary.

The size of the school is good. You can always meet someone new, but you see the same faces around quite often. People are usually impressed when they hear you go to W&M. Williamsburg is for tourism and retirement. The city is building a lot of new commercial areas, which will definitely improve the quality of student life in about 1 year. New Town's movie theater and bevy of restaurants saved us from a few hit-but-mostly-miss dining center meals. The administration is a mess. The most loved figure is retiring, and we have no president.

William & Mary's a solid school that's a great alternative to some of the other popular public schools in Virginia-- the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, etc. Here in Williamsburg, tourists and retirees collide with us students to provide a college life truly unique to William & Mary. It's basically a pretty average place you can't go wrong with. Into English or History? You've got it made here. Computer Science or Biology? Come on by. Sports, music, drama, art? Good choice as well. Even though no particular program or activity really stands out here, you can rest assured that you'll get a good education in whatever interests you. In the center of Ancient Campus lies the famed Christopher Wren building, one of the landmarks here on the College grounds. In a way, it's a symbol of William & Mary's reverence for tradition, history, and prestige. One glimpse at the Wren and you know the William & Mary student is solemn, diligent, and wise. But just a few yards away lies a swamp, a smelly drainage pond that's not all too pleasant to bypass. And this is a metaphor for the College, as well-- if there's one criticism about the William & Mary campus and student body, it's that it's stagnant. People can be slow moving and slow to change. If you're interested in starting a fire here, you'd better provide the spark.

The best thing about William and Mary are the people. You will never find a group of students who are more caring and interested in the people around them. Not too mention, the campus is gorgeous, and the weather is amazing! I would change the fact that there isn't much of a college town at all. Sure, colonial williamsburg is a unique place to go to shop around, but let's face it, going into a tourist trap is not really the idea of a student's night out of "fun". Biggest recent controversy? Nichol, anyone? And yes, there is a lot of "Tribe pride" at William and Mary, although it doesn't necessarily have to do with sports all of the time.

William and Mary is a small public school, mostly for undergraduates, which is remarkable by itself. Most students like the small-school atmosphere, especially when it comes to class size. The college shares the town of Williamsburg with a thriving tourist industry- there's almost no "college town" to speak of. There are many tourist establishments that cater to students as well, but the main attractions for students within walking distance consist of three (3) bars, one gas-station style 24 hour convenience store, and a myriad of overpriced restaurants. Many students also feel that the police in Williamsburg are very anti-student.

The best thing about W&M is the people you meet there. No matter who you were in high school, the popular kids, the jocks, the nerds, you'll find people there just like you. Even though that's true, you'll also meet people you have never come in contact with before. Whether it's living next to a student from Hong Kong, or living down the hall from somebody who leads protests against everything, you can also meet new people. The school is large enough that you can avoid som epeople you don't like, but small enough that you can be involved.

William and Mary is the perfect size school. Campus isn't too large so you can walk everywhere and it's absolutely gorgeous so there's no qualms about it. It's nice that the campus backs right up to Colonial Williamsburg, it's a nice little break from the college world. There isn't much to do around town so if you're looking for excitement, you have to drive to Va Beach or something which requires a car (cars seem to be few and far between since there's no parking --- anywhere.)

The number one reason why white people like not having a TV is so that they can tell you that they don’t have a TV. On those lonely nights when white people wish they could be watching American Idol, Lost, or Grey’s Anatomy, they comfort themselves by thinking of how when people talk about the show tomorrow they can say “I didn’t see it, I don’t have a TV. That stuff rots your brain.” It is effective in making other white people feel bad, and making themselves feel good about their life and life choices. Though these people often fill their time by talking with other friends who don’t watch TV about how they don’t watch TV, looking at leaves, cooking, reading books about left wing politics, and going to concerts/protests/poetry slams. Generally this makes them very boring and gives you very little to talk to them about. It’s important that you NEVER suggest they are making a mistake or that there is a value to owning a TV. You should just try to steer the conversation to allow them to talk about how they are better than you.

Most people outside of Virginia/DC wont know how prestigious W&M is, that is the biggest downfall. Plus, we need the feather back on our logo.

Williamsburg is pretty much a tourist town, which is nice because we have every restaurant imaginable, but sucks during tourist season. Also, everything besides Wawa closes around 9 pm. But Wawa is our one saving grace and the best place to hang out at 3 am on a Saturday.

Overall a really cool place

There is a ton of pride here. The recent resignation of President Nichol serves as a perfect example of how united we are and the way that we band together we need to. Tribe Pride is alive and well! Best Thing - the professors and all of the amazing people you meet here. When you really take the time to get to know your teachers and peers, they really are some of the most amazing people in the world! Worst Thing - parking on campus (and the fines are huge)... but at the same time, this is Williamsburg and we like to keep it small and historic, so there really isn't much choice. Just make sure that if you are going to have a car that you follow all of the rules.

This place is pretty depressing. Adjustment can be extremely difficult. Sticking it out can also be really rewarding though.

I think one of the best things about the campus is that people are not afraid, and are in fact encouraged, to state their opinions. With the recent drama surrounding President Nichol and the Sex Workers' Art Show, you can see it more than ever. Beyond that, there's always opinion columns in The Flat Hat written by students and professors. When I tell people I go to William and Mary they usually say "good job" or they look excited and tell me they know someone, cousin, friend, whoever, who went there who I should talk to. Honestly, with my schedule this semester, I spend a lot of time in class. And when it's cold, its rare to see people outside in huge numbers. I usually hang out at the rec center, in my dorm, or sometimes in Swem. But when the weather's nice I like to hang out on Sunken Gardens or in this one tree behind Wren. Before the tourists come its also nice to cruise around Colonial Williamsburg. In terms of having a college town William and Mary is somewhat lacking. We do have New Town and the outlets and CW before the tourists come, but nothing that exciting. There are some good restaurants though. I always hear good things about Nawab and Mongo's is really good for all you can eat Asian food.

Among academic circles, W&M is a big deal, but not many other people have really heard of it. I love it here because it's small enough that you can feel the sense of community but big enough that you meet someone new every day. We're a really active campus- everyone is in a few clubs/has a job/internship. There is tons of school pride, but the people that hate it transfer immediately.

The best thing about W&M is the community. It is a small community that seems tight enough that you can get to the people around you pretty well (if you want to). I would like to seem more diversity and or Gene Nichol back as President of THE COLLEGE. It's just right for me but others may think differently. They react like this, " OOOOO Smart kid. What are you doing after college?" I spend the majority of my time in dorm rooms, mine, gf's, or a friends, next would be the gym. College town or "what college town" is a difficult question. Williamsburg, james city area is a lot bigger than people think and it isnt just colonial williamsburg, which we happen to be located next to. Saying that the area is growing and growing.... but there isn't much to do here right next to college but things are becoming available if you can drive 4-6 minutes away. I love Gene Nichol. Interim Pres. Reverly I have no problem with. Rector Michael Powell sucks a big one just look him up ass the pres of the FCC. Other administration are pretty awesome. President Nichol not being renewed and that was a travesty. Not really a lot but people didnt turn out more for the bball games this year (it would help if our football and bball teams won more). I would say people are prideful of w&M but maybe not so much about sports teams. The townies that lurk on campus and are at frat parties some how, start trouble, and sometimes steal the college girls from us. A candle ligh vigil/silent protest of the BOV in support of Pres. Nichol. I will never forget that night and what it meant to the students, faculty, and pres. nichol and wife. There isn't anything to do other than the frats and the delis right next to campus that people can walk to or oroororororororo THEEEEE WORST PROBLEMMMM HAS to be PARKING!!! THERE ISN'T ANY DAMN RESIDENTIAL PARKING, even after they built a PARKING GARAGE!!!!! sorry for that rant.

Some people are surprised to hear how much prestige W&M has and other are surprised to learn how (financially) accessible it is for its level of prestige. It has both. I have family, friends, and a fiance in Newport News so I tend to go there on weekends and can't really say much about the weekend life. During the week I'm busy with physics work (not typical of all majors). I do hear good things about the college town, but I don't know if W&M would be the place to go if it was your priority. The college has gotten a lot of mixed press as of late. President Nichol removed the Wren Cross and put it in a box. In my opinion here was doing nothing more than restoring it to it traditional Anglican Church architectural theme and responding to complaints of minority religions for the sake of the college. Conservative alumni assumed he was anti-Christian and the BoV failed to renew his contract. His legacy of expanding diversity, financial aid, and undergraduate research remains and for all the hooplah the college remains mostly the same.

William & Mary is the perfect size, in that you'll see a ton of familiar faces every day, but there is always opportunity to branch out and get to know even more people. However, Williamsburg is not exactly college-friendly. There are three "delis" (our bars), Colonial Williamsburg, and not much else, it seems like from time to time. My freshman year, there wasn't even a mainstream movie theater! Now that Newtown has been built up, it's nice to be able to go to the restaurants, shops, and the movie theater there - Newtown is a bit out of the way, so having a car is much more convenient than trying to walk there or take the bus. William & Mary definitely does carry a lot of name value - people instantly recognize you as being a student of academic merit. Adults will almost always say, "Oh, your parents must be so proud of you!" when you say that you go here. W&M's reputation as a "public Ivy" is well known. This campus has met a lot of controversy recently... we made national headlines when President Nichol removed the Wren Cross from the Wren Chapel, a move that a lot of students agreed with and that a lot of alums and a number of students disagreed with. An alum very publicly revoked a $12 million pledge. We made headlines again over the Sex Workers Art Show, which has toured at several other schools, and once more when President Nichol resigned upon learning that his contract was to be terminated. As a result, there has been a lot of tension between the student body (and the faculty) and the Board of Visitors. One complaint that I hear consistently is how professors assign unrealistic amounts of homework. Most of them do recognize this problem, yet tend to go overboard anyways.

William & Mary and W&M students have always impressed others and always will. Everything here is "just right." I love the size--not too big that you are just a number, not too small that you get sick of seeing the same people all of the time. There is always something to do at W&M whether it's midnight adventures in Colonial Williamsburg, a dance party at the frats, or going to a rally for rights you believe in. Our latest controversy involving the resignation of President Gene Nichol shook our campus pretty hard and brought out the activist in all of us. We spent days rallying and having teach-ins about student rights and the future of our college. Instead of wining about how unfair it was we petitioned to get our Board of Visitors to come to campus and explain themselves. The difference between W&M and other schools: when our president is forced to resign--our campus mobilizes to defend not only our rights but all other public universities rights as well.

The best and most unique thing about W&M is the student body. The size allows you to be able to say hi to friends in passing on a regular basis, but still have plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Along the same lines, the students here are very intelligent, accepting, and congenial. Getting in to William and Mary is pretty hard, and everyone here knows that. So, once you're in, it's a very welcoming and tight community. Students respect each other, and are consistently friendly and helpful.

The people are the best thing- everyone is really nice and is involved on campus which I love. If I could change one thing it would be more convenient parking spaces- it's a pain to go park it in the Hall or have to move it every 2 hours on the street. I think the school has just the right amount of people. Class sizes are great and the teachers are very approachable and want you to do well. Most people I tell think that I go to a pseudo-ivy and that it's a private school. I spend the most time on campus in my dorm room. I would rather do work there than go to the library- although it's a great facility with really comfy chairs haha. We do finally have a "college town"- Newtown which has billiards, shopping, movie theatre, food- very nice. Biggest controversy recently was our President's contract not being renewed. I think there is a lot of school pride- but we aren't really known for athletics and not everyone goes to sporting events. One experience I will always remember was getting to eat lunch with the President earlier this semester- that's the kind of faculty we have - they want to get to know us and W&M is definately a great community of people.

Best thing - smallish, friendly, a really good school I'd change parking - you can't park anywhere during football games. Students who have to live here should get parking priority over people coming out to see the game. Size is just right - you can always meet new people, but there are also lots of familiar faces. They either say "Oh wow, that's a really good school," or "Oh, where is that?" I spend a lot of time in Jones and Tucker, my room, and making Wawa runs. I try to avoid Swem. I like the practice rooms in Ewell too. The UC terrace is nice. Yeah, what college town. Though, you can really make your own fun... and there are lots of restaurants. Gosh - Gene Nichol. I think there's a fair amount of school pride. Traditions can become traditions instantly (Blowout is hardly an ancient tradition). Nothing particular - I always get warm fuzzies when I sing the Alma Mater, and sometimes just walking along on campus i think "It's really beautiful here, and I get to claim it," as sappy as that may be. The one football game I attended that we won was pretty sweet. I got to see Glen Close one time, that was cool. Oh yeah, and the Queen. Complaints - no parking, NO PARKING, terrible allergy season, too much work, nothing to do

I think by far one of the best things about William and Mary is the love the people involved have for this school. Faculty, staff, and students all seem to really care not only about how their lives are improved by being here, but about the College's future. I also really love that all of my classes have been taught by my professor, with the occasional exception of a lab. I do wish we had the money to fund renovation projects more often and that there was more parking on campus. I think the size of our student body is perfect. When I tell people from near Virginia that I go to William and Mary many comment that it is a good school and that I must be smart; when talking to someone from a completely different area, however, the comment I receive the most is: "Is that a Catholic school?" due to the nature of the name. I spend the majority of my time either in my on campus housing, in classrooms, the Daily Grind, or outside on the UC terrace whenever possible. There is a decided lack of a college town atmosphere in Williamsburg, it seems to be more of a "retirement town" with way too many pancake houses and very few night life options. The biggest recent controversy on campus was the failure of the Board of Visitors to renew Gene Nichol's contract and his subsequent resignation. I have a feeling that the white supremacist speaker that is due on campus next week will be an issue as well. I think that William and Mary students do take pride in their alma mater, but I feel it is done in a subtle manner. You won't see many people decked out in green and gold camping out before a game, but when something happens to the school and its members, such as the Gene Nichol controversy, there is an outpouring of voices about our school. I think one of the most unusual things about William and Mary is despite the large amount of civic activism the students have, as well as the amount of volunteer work we do for the community, we have a very poor "green" system. You would think that with as much as we care about other issues, we'd want a greener campus too. I will always remember yule log ceremonies, Gene Nichol's resignation, and quite a few personal memories from my time here. The complaints often seen involve lack of new buildings and parking, that the cobblestone is hard to walk on, and that the UC food is UC food.

Best thing is the Greene Leafe cafe. I'd change the town, williamsburg can be quite stuffy and unfriendly to students. Size is just right. People are impressed when they hear I went to WM. I spend most of my time at my frat house. "What college town". Administration is poor and does not listen to students. Biggest controversy - firing of Gene Nichol, college president. There is minimal school pride.

The big picture thatis william and mary is that it is a very elitist university in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by a community that doesn't like the students but needs the economy that the college brings. Without this college Williamsburg would be a poor, dead town. Even so the surrounding community thinks less than nothing of the students. Students here have very little say in how their college is run, while the wealthy conservative alumni dictate what is allowed here and how things will be run. There is nothing to do in Williamsburg and nothing origional about it. The local historically preseved museum "colonial williamsburg" is a historic smokescreen of lies. It propogates the myth of this countries colonial foundings without dealing with the actualities of slavery, tobacco, or native americans and instead presenting an idealized portrait of drum and fife marches and patriotism that borders on racism. Some professors here are good and passionate about thier work, but they usually don't stay, as they are recognized for their merits and paid better elsewhere. Apart from the library, the academic buildings and dorm rooms are deteriorating, but new parking garages and a chemistry addition are being built. Overall I am dissapointed in my college experience here, and I fell like it has made me into a cynical, bitter person.

William and Mary is a good, mid-sized school, with just enough people that you're always meeting someone new but small enough that you run into people you know frequently. The city of Williamsburg is interesting because most of the town is either college property or colonial buildings. There's a slight divide between conservative and liberal ideologies on campus, with a struggle between increased freedom and stricter moral conduct. Too many times it seems like administration members seem interested in busting kids for drinking than doing something productive, but that doesn't mean that everyone who drinks gets in trouble. Don't come to W&M if you're looking for strong varsity athletics. There are a good many student organizations. Also, no matter what you're looking for in terms of a social life, its probably available at W&M. Those that don't have people to hang out with are those that aren't looking. The only real pride that exists is to say we're better than UVA. Which we are.

I built a urinal out of my dorm window and I always get angry texts from people saying "Stop urinating." I will continue to piss.

People in America tend to know of William and Mary, and be fairly impressed that we go there, but outside of the states, we don't have much name recognition. We're not Yale or Harvard, but people know it's a good school. The size of the school is pretty good, small enough to always know someone in the bar, but large enough to meet new people even in your senior year. Definitely "what college town," although it's getting better, with new shops and restaurants aimed more towards students. Controversy: google gene nichol, and read until your eyes bleed. We definitely have a lot of Tribe pride, even when we perhaps shouldn't (ie our football team).

The size. Despite the countless criticisms William and Mary, as well as its students, have received for as long as it has existed, the size of the College continues to not only rank as the very best feature of the school, but its also a source of envy for thousands of students attending other colleges and universities across the country. To know FOR A FACT that your class size will not surpass 25 students is absolutely marvelous. While other young adults around the nation struggle to enroll in the most popular classes their respective schools offer - note: a good percentage of said students are seniors and have conseuqently been forced to prolong their undergraduate education all for the sake of getting the chance to enter a specific class or two to fulfill the required number of credits for graduating - William and Mary students, conversely, constantly have the chance to explore whatever they desire, and perhaps more importantly, whenever they desire. The fact is, students at the College are in the unique and very valuable position of being able to truly acquaint themselves with their professors, advisors, and deans. As a result, they have a much stronger likelihood of creating and fostering significant life-long connections, which have proven to go a long way in terms of both professional and personal advacement.

The administration is determined to ruin the fun of the students by starting programs like the Alcohol Task Force. Mark Constantine is a disease that converts campuses to "dry campuses" then moves on. The rules are ridiculous (no kegs on campus??!!) for a college, people get in trouble for more petty things than I could have dreamed of.

I think the size of W&M is just right and I would not change it. My favorite thing about W&M was the freedom I had to explore any area in academia, art, and nature that excited me and run with it. My college experience did not turn out like I thought it would. It was way better than I could have imagined. One thing I would change is parking services. They are evil. My favorite parts of campus are old campus, then path between the sunken gardens and the crim dell, and the woods. Not much of a college town, although the town as a whole has more to offer students than it did in the past, unfortunately at the expense of many acres of wooded land. I like the administration for the most part, except for Dean Volp. She is also evil. I am torn over the controversy surrounding Gene Nichol (the biggest recent controversy), because I like him tremendously as a person and as a representative of the students, faculty, and staff. However, there is always money to consider, and he didn't have much luck with that. W&M is unusual in that it is one of the finest schools in the nation, but lacks in environmental friendliness. Williamsburg is also unusual in that it is not a college town and rather is geared towards tourists, and the retired.