Like all higher-level educational institutions, Miami University has both its strengths and weaknesses. If students are searching for a school that offers city life, Miami University is not the best choice. One can easily ask “what college town?” as Oxford, Ohio is small, and thus rather limited in what it offers. An array of cute cafes, a small theater, antique store, hardware store, and a Kroger’s, and a smattering of drugstores and hairstylists makes up the town. While a Wal-Mart is also only a short distance a way, simply put, Oxford has necessities, and little else in form of entertainment. For night life, one would have to drive to Cincinnati or Dayton.
Another area of concern involves scheduling for classes. While Miami University does attempt to set each student with an advisor, it is of the student’s own volition to seek help; an advisor likely will not request you meet with them, unless you are a new student. Like other schools its size, Miami University scheduling is not personal; rather, one must be aware of scheduling periods and register online him or herself. For a new student, this process can be stressful, as classes fill quickly and registering is on a first come, first serve basis. Students must be quick to get the classes they wish, but they must also be informed and aware of the basic requirements required of a Miami Education. As Miami University is a liberal arts college, the Miami Plan requires students take subjects outside of their respective majors. This can cause a problem, as the requirements are very specific, and failure to pay close attention to these may mean an extra half year of school. Nonetheless, if students seek help for scheduling, there are also options such as force adding a class, as well as a decent sampling of courses offered during the summer.
A few other complaints about Miami University may include pedestrian safety, dorm noise, and accessibility of the information via the school’s website. Lately, concerns have risen concerning pedestrian safety, in lieu of four consecutive incidents around and in the campus in a two-week period. In one instance, a student had to be airlifted to the nearest hospital. Most cases, of course, are less severe, but there clearly is cause for concern. A mixture of careless driving, unaware pedestrians, and congested streets are all concerns that need to be raised at some point. In terms of dorm life, experience can depend largely on where one lives, as each quad of the campus has a different ‘personality’. North quad tends to be noisier, and central less so. However, in all dorms there are time when it is difficult to study and sleep at reasonable hours, despite the implication of quiet hours. Perhaps stricter RA’s are needed to enforce these policies, to ensure that a student can sleep and study in his or her dorm. Lastly, Miami University’s website lacks coherence; that is, one must search for a while to find information. There are broken links and the search engine is not very accurate. If one wants to find information, it is often easier to find faculty on campus and pose questions there. That said, faculty is very quick and helpful in response to email communication.
All of this said, Miami University has plenty of things to boast over. The beauty of the campus is clearly a step above and beyond most state schools, and even many small private ones. With classic architecture and mature trees, green spaces and sculptures, Miami University is aseptically appealing. It is an ideal place for studying, picnicking, and playing outside. The buildings themselves are generally in good condition, as the University does its best to make renovations on an annual basis. Constantly the University tries to cater to student’s needs; currently a new student center is being constructed, along with an array of new dining options. Miami University dining seems very underrated; the campus food, though not perhaps the very best, is a good deal above passable. Fresh options are available, as well as typical ‘college food’. The sheer number of locations is above commendable; anywhere you live on campus, you are sure to have at least one if not several options literally outside your dorm. Unique to other campuses, Miami University also has four on campus mini markets, which are particularly useful for very busy students or students living in apart5ments.
Building hours and resources available to students are also commendable aspects. King Library, which is open twenty –four hours, is very well stocked with books for research purposes. With study rooms, a Starbucks coffee, computers, group meeting rooms, and a writing help center, the library is very useful and pleasing. Many academic buildings are also open extensive hours, and there is also at least a few dining options available to students regardless of the day. The recreational center is spacious, new, and offers an array of activities. Group and personal classes are available, and a number of club sports as well. The pool is nearly always available for alp swimming, even during meets, as is the upstairs indoor track, basketball court, and weightlifting facilities. Additionally, there is a rock climbing wall, racquetball, table tennis, and many more options. The building is opened from very early in the morning until eleven at night.
One cannot talk of Miami University’s strong points without discussing its academic programs. Known for professional professors and dedication to its undergraduate students, Miami University lives up to its name. Unlike many other large schools, Miami does not have TA’s, but professors teaching their respective courses. Office hours are flexible, and students should have no difficulty finding time to personally meet with their professors. Miami University does a good job of promoting undergraduate research and internships, as well as career path resources. One does, however, have to take the intiative to become involved in such opportunities. Something can also be said of the quality of the student body itself, as the acceptance rate is lower than counterpart state schools. The quality of education is undeniable; Miami University has been recognized nationally for many different academic divisions, as well as one of the nation’s top Universities for undergraduate study. Miami boasts a top ten national spot for highest graduation rates. The prospects pots graduation for Miami students are good as well; in terms of salary and job placement, Miami University ranks first among public Ohio schools and 34th nationally.
Lastly, the size of Miami University is something to be recognized. Neither small nor excessively large, the University offers the variety and accessibility other large schools offer, with personalized attention to its students. While Miami Plan classes often are lecture halls, inside ones major usually classes comprise of no more than thirty students. There is a large enough student body for diversity, but not so large a student feels he or she is merely a number.
Weighing the negatives and positives, Miami University is a solid educational institution that offers students a quality education in a pleasing environment.