Washington and Lee University Top Questions

There are lots of great things about W&L. I chose it because it's a small, conservative school in the south that has an excellent academic reputation. Sometimes I feel like it's too small because everyone knows everyone else's business, but at the same time I enjoy the strong community atmosphere. When I tell people from up north where I go to school, they don't know much about it unless they are familiar with southern schools. People who do know the name, however, are very impressed and tell me what a great school it is. I spend most of my time on campus in my apartment or in the sorority house. I would say Lexington is a decent college town. There are lots of places to eat and some cute shops. I do wish it were closer to a large mall though. The residents in Lex are very nice and seem to embrace the students well. I don't have a strong opinion about W&L's administration either way - I think they do a good job. The biggest controversies on campus are usually related to off-color humor or rumors. There is definitely a lot of school pride at W&L - there is a strong "good ol' boy" mentality. People often point to our Greek system as rather particular to W&L. The majority of students here are Greek and the organizations have a strong presence on campus. The best part of W&L is the strong friendships I'm developing here. People here are friendly and outgoing. I know the people I meet here will be in my life forever.

W&L has a great balanced environment. The school maintains a scholastic motivation in studying hard and learning but also students enjoy partying and having a good time. Students often to the saying, "Work hard, play hard." One of the most overlooked attributes of W&L is its incredible location in the Blue Ridge Mountains - Shenandoah Valley. Students definitely take advantage of the surrounding area through hiking, paddling, swimming, biking, etc. Lexington is a small and slow town, but it has everything to support the student body. There are very few good bars - and almost zero student bar scene. Most parties take place a student off campus houses, most of which are located in the country surrounding the city. There are also parties at the fraternity houses. The relationship between students and the locals varies. One of the largest complaints from students is with the Lexington police department. The police don't have much to do so students must more careful. There is a great relationship between students and professors. Professors are always easy to meet with and you actually get a chance to know them.

W&L is in rural Lexington, VA, so there isn't much to do besides go to frat parties, which I enjoy. There is a major gender relations problem on campus, and I think it has to do with the dynamic of Greek life, to a certain extent. Guys and girls generally don't interact outside of frat basements, and this leads to at best an awkwardness on the Hill, and at worst, objectification of women, and sexual assault. That said, I have experienced exceptions to this problem, and I do have guy friends with whom I feel comfortable. One aspect about W&L I love is the honor system. Everyone has to act like a gentleman or a gentlewoman, and lying, cheating, and stealing (an honor violation) has one punishment: expulsion. Students leave laptops, books, clothing, etc. around, and I haven't known of an instance in which anything was taken.

The size, the professors, the parties are all aspects of W&L's culture that make it truly outstanding. I love my school, despite the greek system's rigid social structure. Groups are pretty stratified yet I believe if there were no greek system, smaller cliques would form anyway and I would not benefit from the AMAZING parties and close bonds I have made with the girls in my srat. Academically and socially W&L has been incredibly enriching to my life.

w&l is very unique for the honor system in particular, which creates an environment that lets you schedule your own exams, leave valuables sitting around on campus safely, and never lock your dorm room. the students get to run a lot of the government of the school, and preside over the honor system themselves, not the faculty and admin. the propensity to dress up on campus is also rather unique, especially at football games when men wear brooks brothers jackets and bow ties and women wear bright sun dresses...which both genders also wear to class on a regular basis... w&l is also predominantly greek, which makes us all sound like uber-preps, but in reality there's a greek organization for everyone (there's a frat for the nerds and a frat for the frat lords, a sorority for girls who wouldnt otherwise be in a sorority), and even those who go independant arent left out, since all the parties are open to everyone, no matter what frat they're in.

The school is perfectly sized for intense academic learning. However, this size leads to a tightened social scene. Washington and Lee is a well-known school among the right people. It is definitely a stepping stone to financial sucess - especially from the school of commerce. However, there is much competition in this path, so I picked a liberal arts major, which has been an incredible decision. The faculty are great - all intelligent and willing to help. There is an incredible party-side to the school despite it being small. However, the administration has been strangling this social scene, including kicking off fraternities, and monitoring drinking. This has led to a conformist social scene, which although still good, has dramatically changed for the worse since I've been at the school. Overall, it is an incredible school. I have experienced great academic learning, and gained the greatest friends of my life in the best social setting of any school I've ever visited. However, the school is looking to improve its academic standing, which equals an attack on the previously untouched and free social scene. The school will not be the same 3 years from now.

The best thing about W&L is the fact that there is a sort of community. Since we are so isolated from other areas the school is very much a community where most people have at least heard of each other. If I could change one thing it would be to increase the diversity, the lack of diversity here is profound and has a negative impact on campus. I feel that the school is very small but it is nice for the reason I listed earlier, it makes it a community rather than an aggregation of students. Most people don't recognize the name W&L until you get into the business world, many of the people I have talked to that recognized the school were professionals. I spend most of my time on campus split between doing work in the science building and having fun at the greek houses. The entire town of Lexington grew around W&L and VMI so the college is the main thing in the town. The W&L administration really cares for its students and is wiling to work with and help students with whatever they need. The biggest recent controversy was something in our school newspaper called "The Bracket" in which students were slandered by other students using mysogynistic and homophobic terms. There is a lot of school pride here but it doesn't center around sports. Washington and Lee is a very unusual school as so much of the school centers around greek life, I would suggest you visit, preferably staying with a student, before coming here as its not for everyone. The one experience I will always remember is when the Dean of Students gave me a ride home from the airport. The most frequent complaints are that there is too much emphasis on greek life, not enough diversity, and that some really terrible people attend this school.

The size of the school is perfect. It's a ton of fun. The classes are really tough, but rewarding, and the teachers are really helpful. You can go to them for literally any problem you are encountering, in or out of the classroom. People in the right circles know that dubyuhnell is an extremely prestigous school to go to. I love the quote, "It's okay you've never heard of w&l, you wouldn't have gotten in." Lots of people make jokes about how no one can get the name right. It's not William and Lee, Washington and Mary, or William and Mary, and it's not In D.C. either.

I came to W&L because it was a small, prestigious private school not too close to any major cities. I enjoy the close relationships I have with my professors, who all know me by name and are incredibly friendly and approachable. Additionally, the honor system allows flexibility in exam scheduling and ensure that I feel safe and that my belongings are undisturbed on campus, which I appreciate. One unusual aspect of W&L is the spring term (currently six weeks, soon to be four weeks) during which students take 1-2 classes, study abroad or leave school early to take part in internships and summer jobs. This particular aspect of the school is a pleasant experience in that the classes, while intense and demanding as per school standards, are scheduled with a great deal of freetime to enjoy one's social life. The opportunities to study abroad during this time (an opportunity I am currently taking advantage of) are extensive. Furthermore, spring term typically lasts beyond the end date of most other schools, but with our options, we may in fact enter the area of summer jobs along side our fellow college students.

I love the small classes and getting individual attention from teachers; they really care about us. If you like knowing everyone and knowing everyone who walks by you then you would like W&L. Everyone at W&L is really nice and we always say hi to each other even if we dont know each other.

W&L is obviously a small school, but I actually think I have more friends than I would at a state school, not less. The class size also encourages participation and student-professor friendships. All of my professors know my name and most ask me about lacrosse as well. I spend most of time balancing school, lacrosse, and going out. W&L is very social, but drinking is not a requirement for having fun, going out, or socializing like many think it is. Washington and Lee is in the college town of Lexington, VA in the Shenandoah Valley, and it is absolutely beautiful here. I lived on a river last year, which was just a five minute or less drive from campus.

best thing: opportunity worst thing: red-neck central

Just the right size-personal relationships between professors and students (known by name, often get cell phone numbers for emergencies); small classes; get to know a lot of students-don't stick with one small group. beautiful campus, but small town. no starbucks! lots of student-athletes, but not a large fan base. more people got to lacrosse games then football big social scene

The best thing about Washington and Lee is the people. Everyone works hard, but is still very sociable. There isn't much competition for grades since everyone realizes others are smart. The size is just right, class sizes allow the professors to get to know the students and vice versa. It's great to know so many faces while walking to your classes. I spend most of my time on campus in the dorms or in the commons. There is a lot of school pride here, everyone agrees that they go to the best college in the country. However, this isn't really shown in athletics until a team goes far into the tournament.

Small liberal arts school with extremely demanding academic and social lives. Little to no grade inflation and offers a better education than most comperable schools, but can be a lot of pressure at times. The administration is fucking terrible.

It can have a high school mentality. Show up at any party and you will find people you know there. If you don't know someone, ask around and you will quickly find out everything you need to know. (Basic facts include name and fraternity/sorority, plus any relevant gossip.) All the students are very smart and savvy though. You will rarely find a complete ditz, though there is the occasional husband seeker. Expect to stretch your mind during the day and blitz it away on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

This university truly is "a place like no other." It is a "hidden ivy" for certain. Situated in the beautiful Virginia countryside in a small college town, the university has a strong sense of community. This sense of community extends to all aspects of university life: the relationship between students and faculty, students and administration, the university community and the rest of the town is a strong one. For the student looking for an unforgettable and unparalleled college experience, W&L is the place. W&L isn't a large university with lots of school spirit and an amazing football team like a state university. It is small and intimate, with a pride that extends past varsity sports and into our academic programs. The school has a vibrant greek program that not even the independent students can really avoid. There is a lot of partying because of the student mentality to "work hard, play hard." We take both seriously.

Washington and Lee is a small campus with such a unique system that it offers opportunities that are unique to this school. Commonly when I am with friends who go to other Universities I find myself saying, "you cannot understand W&L until you come here." The Greek system and academic calender are two of the aspects of W&L that make it so appealing. With our spring term, we are offered a way to take just one or two courses for six weeks. Therefore professors can offer classes that normally would never be taught. It also allows for students to study abroad without missing an entire semester.

size: perfect, intro chemistry class 99 students...300 level Spanish class 4 students reaction: non-Virginia Residents and young people say "where is that?," old Virginians are impressed/surprised especially because I'm a black female they say "YOU go there? on campus recreation: movie theater COLLEGE TOWN Recent controversy: bracket of the drunkest, slutty-est, and gayest people on campus posted in one on-campus newspaper...students, faculty, administration condemned it School pride: Alumni weekend doubles the number of people on campus each year...alumns from class of '53 still come to drink with their buddies Unusual: forced social interaction, cliques that are worse than most middle schools

WnL is a small, liberal arts school in Lexington, Va. The town of Lexington can sometimes feel restrictive, but the school does a lot to compensate for the rural setting. Most students spend their weekdays on campus studying. On Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday the majority of students can be found at fraternity houses relieving the stress of the week. If the party scene isn't for you, the Outing Club provides lots of opportunities to do outdoor activities like hiking and white water rafting. The Commons has nightly movies for those who want to destress with a bag of popcorn.

It is a small place where teachers and students bond amazingly, I love it!

To me, the best thing about Washington & Lee is the small school atmosphere. After two years at the University, I know most of the students in some capacity, and the student body is to me a second family. While the size of the school suits me well, the small town can be boring at times. Lexington is not the most exciting city around. However, on the other hand there is no shortage of fun at Washington & Lee, as there are frequently parties, almost all of which are completely open for any member of the community to attend. The fraternity system helps in this regard, but it can also be somewhat divisive. At W&L, your social life is very limited if you do not belong to a Greek organization, mostly because almost everyone in the school is a member of a fraternity or sorority.

Best thing: small classes and getting to know professors - undergrads have opportunities to become friends with their professors, do research that grad students would monopolize at a big university, and get killer recommendation letters Size: just right! The small number of students allows you to meet people from all different backgrounds and majors. My friends at big state schools just hang out with people from their own concentration or dorm hall. I have friends from every department on campus. How do people react when I tell them I go to "Dubyuhnell"?: If they've heard of the school, they're really impressed. It has a great reputation in the South and is the most selective school in VA. College town: definitely - there are tons of cute boutiques and great restaurants in town. Not as many bars as you'd expect, though, and no clubs. One thing I'd change (also a frequent student complaint): Gender relations. Greek students are required to eat lunch and Monday (chapter) dinners at their chapter house. Since participation in Greek life is so high, this means that the two genders don't mix much outside of class, frat parties, and mixers. As a result, almost nobody "dates." A few religious students are already engaged, and the rest of the student body just does casual hookups on the weekends. If you are interested in dating, it is very hard to meet a like-minded person. As a girl, I also find that it's hard to get guys to view me as anything other than a potential hookup. I've even heard girls complaining, "My boyfriend won't hang out with me when he's sober." Since I don't approve of casual sex, I haven't had a single boyfriend during my four years here, and it's really frustrating.

Though most people haven't heard of W&L, it's actually a hidden gem. The surrounding town, Lexington, Va., is absolutely gorgeous, but it gets a little stifling when there's no way to get out of it. The campus is a good size, and there are always plenty of places to hang out. The honor system rules.

The student body needs serious adjusting. Too many of them are, for lack of a better term, bad apples. Their fathers typically went to school here and they think that they're very entitled as a result. There are a lot of good people going here, but they are almost always eclipsed by the small percent of every class that are over-entitled, arrogant pricks. The admissions office would do W&L the greatest favor possible if they refused to accept legacy students for a decade.

The faculty is incredibly competent, the administration oftentimes less so. "Competence" really doesn't even begin to describe the quality of the faculty, however. They are exceptionally intelligent in their fields, lucid in their lectures, and helpful/accommodating almost to a fault when students have questions or problems. I have been to professors homes for dinner or other events multiple times, and often spend half an hour or more time chatting with a professor in their office when I only intended to ask a quick question. The small size of the school is a huge plus. The student/faculty ratio approaching 10:1. The attention and availability of professors is an incredible asset unmatched at other institutions.

There are good and bad things about the size of Washington and Lee and the fact that everyone seems to know everyone. On the positive side, you are rarely anywhere on campus without friend or a familiar face and you get a lot of one on one attention from the professors, but on the down side there does tend to be a lot of gossip after almost every weekend. People who have heard of Washington and Lee tend to be lawyers and doctors or people from the south, and they are almost always really impressed, sometimes though they just say, "Oh you must be having a lot of fun." I spend most of my time on Campus in the sorority house studying and spending time with friends. The town of Lexington is tiny but it can also be fun that way. There is a little community run rive in theater not far away and a few good restaurants, but most of us spend the weekends at campus parties or functions. I have been a bit disappointed with the administration of Washington and Lee, they sometimes seem more concerned with the reputation of the school than the students. I think that for such a small school there is a lot of school pride, especially at the first football game of the year when we all get dressed up in our Sunday dresses and khakis and support the team. The alumni are also really really passionate about the school and constantly talk about wishing they could come back.

The best thing is the education and the networking possibilities. DIII sports enables you to continue to play for the love of the game and still be able to focus on academics and your social life. I think that recruitment should happen the first week of school. The current recruitment system focuses too much on money, drinking, and sexual behavior. It eats up all the time of the active brothers and sisters and then pressures incoming freshmen to be super "awesome" and do poorly in their classes (the whole reason they are at school in the first place). Off campus parties encourage reckless drunk driving, enable sexual assault, and get us in trouble with the County and the City police. We would be safer if the school would let us party on campus and have the security/RAs could monitor us instead of trying to give us strikes and send us to the hospital. My school is far too small. It has none of the majors you would want- there is barely a dance program. The art program is not developed enough. There is no marketing/advertising major. There is a business major, science majors, a journalism school, and then all of the traditional liberal arts majors. The romance languages department is phenomenal. The History, Anthropology/Sociology, and Art History departments are fantastic and the faculty are outstanding. Dean Watkins needs to go. She is a terrible Dean. She cannot understand the student body and fails to work with the culture. She is too hidebound and uneducated. Dean Futrell and Dean Dobin do their jobs well and have a better understanding of the culture and how to respond to the social problems of the school. Dean Leonard, Dean of Freshmen, is about that business, but can be lenient and really helpful. Dean Dobin struggles. President Ruscio is much better than the last joker and is putting the school on the track to becoming Davidson. He is a great guy. However, W&L is changing. It is NOT the W&L that your daddy went to, so don't expect that reality anymore. The biggest recent controversy is "the list," which I wrote with some of my friends in private and which got circulated over the GroupWise network. Currently, me and my friends are being tried for sexual misconduct, because we engaged in private speech. W&L's administration cares very little for your freedom of speech. When I started blogging about everything going on, Dean Watkins insisted that I take down my blog or I would expelled. Again, you don't have freedom of speech. Everyone is too sensitive these days- see the Bracket (the last controversy over freedom of speech). I wish people at W&L would exercise their Constitutional rights to not read things that they would find offensive and if their feelings get hurt, then they should go home and live with their mommies. I will always remember the ridiculous mixers and theme parties. I will always remember random misadventures and controversial drama. I will always remember the people who treated me with respect and who were down even when everyone acted like a fool- you can find some of these people.

The best thing about W&L is the relationship between professor and student. Every professor I've ever had on campus -- and sometimes those I haven't had, too -- all know me by name. They know where I'm from, they know where I'm going, they know my strengths and my weaknesses, my passions, my friends. I house-sit for them. I baby-sit for them. I meet them for coffee or meals to discuss life. I'll always remember -- my professor's daughter was facing chemotherapy last year. Some of the students wanted to do something nice for the family, and the word spread. We even had professors volunteering their help. We organized a huge potluck dinner at their house in her honor. The broadcast students volunteered hours interviewing her friends and family, finally piecing together a very slick film compilation of her friends' encouraging messages. I've never been prouder of my school than at that dinner -- looking around and seeing my peers initiate and collaborate so selflessly, working after-hours hand-in-hand with our professors. It's truly unlike any other school. I am exceptionally proud to be a part of this community.

Washington and Lee is a relatively small liberal arts institution that provides the perfect balance of community, rigorous academics, student athletes, talented professors and dedicated staff members. Being a part of a campus where you see familiar faces daily and have many opportunities to take part in campus activities is very comforting. Lexington Virignia is a very small town but has a lot of character. The students here definitely embrace the "country" aspects of Lexington and take advantage of its beauty. Along with respecting our college town, Washington and Lee students take great pride in being a General even after they graduate. The alumni of Washington and Lee remain in high contact and involvment with the University and constantly aim to maintain a strong and high level of school pride.

The best thing about Washington and Lee is the faculty and the quality of the academics. The school is definitely too small--everyone knows everything about everyone. But if you want to graduate high school only to go to a college that is just like high school, you'll be right at home. Unless you are from the South, no one knows anything about Washington and Lee. It's almost like the best-kept Southern secret. In any event, people end up thinking you're either at William and Mary or at Washington University in St. Louis. Or, my favorite, William and Lee University.

I dislike the administration - they're quite duplicitous and use the honor system manipulatively. I like the professors - I believe them to, in general, be well qualified, intelligent, wonderful-teachers. I enjoy the social scene - there are a ton of frat parties, but they can get old as the school is small. The registrar's office is a pain. Lexington is beautiful and Rockbridge county is great, overall I think the school is awesome both academically and socially, but the administration is hurting the social scene with frat crackdowns and extra rules in general.

Because 40{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the students are accepted early decision, there is a common pride in W&L that anyone who visits can feel. Because it's small, it creates the opprotunity for everyone to connect and truely feel a part of the community; infact the small size makes the school feel BIGGER because everyone does know eachother and can get along with a wide variety of people. Continuing with the idea of school pride, outside of W&L the connection is even stronger. For example, last summer I saw an alumni (who I didn't know) wearing a W&L visor and I went up to talk to him and we had an instant bond. If I'm wearing W&L gear outside of school I will--without fail--have someone stop me and have a conversation about W&L and compare our experiences. That also is a testement to our Speaking Tradition, which says that all students should say Hi to everyone in passing... In or out of school. Basically, being a student at W&L is like being in a secret club. There are little secrets and understandings. Everyone feels proud and honored to be a part of the club and once you're in, you're in for life.

The small student body is great. You always know someone everywhere you go, yet there are plenty of people you do not know at all. Lexington is not much of a city, but there are some fun places to eat, and no one goes out to bars because of the Greek life so that's not really an issue.

Washington and Lee is a small school, but I think its size is a great asset, not a weakness. So far my biggest classes here have had about 20 students, and I've always been able to get to know my professors. There really is a sense of community here, and making friends is easy in small classes and in the dorms. I also love the Honor System and have been impressed by how well it seems to work. It really is as pervasive as the viewbooks and promotional materials always made it sound. For example, one time I left an umbrella in a cubby out by the dining hall, completely forgot about it, and then happened to see it and picked it up two weeks later. If I'm studying in the library and need a break, I can leave my books on a table and come back later and they're still exactly as I left them. Because of the Honor System, I hardly ever lock my door. I feel really safe on campus, and people here are so friendly and helpful from the security to the library staff. Most people go out of their way to help me. For example, I got lost during orientation week and asked a professor for directions to one of my classroom buildings. Instead of just telling them to me, he went out of his way to escort me there. I have been so impressed with this friendly community overall. Most people who I talk to about college have never heard of Washington and Lee, but I'm always ready to tell them about it! I did find that when I first got in and started telling people that I was going to W&L, most of them had no idea that this school is actually hard to get into and prestigious, and I got a lot of "why did you settle for THAT school--you could do so much better" vibes from people. Obviously, these people just need someone informed to tell them more about W&L, but that was kind of an annoying reaction to deal with. People who do know the school's reputation are impressed that I go here.

The small campus makes it easy to make friends fast, and knowing everyone creates a feeling of unity and trust. The Honor System really helps create trust-- people leave their rooms unlocked, books and laptops are left in the open, and tests are all unproctored. The town of Lexington itself is pretty boring, but we make our own fun. The greek system is huge, but it's getting easier every year to be an independent and still have a social life. There is a ton of drinking here; parties happen almost every night of the week.

The best thing about W&L is the atmosphere. It's a small community with a clear identity.

The best thing about Washington and Lee is the ability to have all of the desirable aspects of a school in one place. I don't think there is any other university that has a strong sense of community, accommodating and intelligent professors, kind staff, smart and driven students, and an incredible social scene. I would change the general education requirements because a lot of the time they are classes which are neither enjoyable nor useful. I love how small this school is and that I know almost everyone in my grade and the majority in others as well. When I tell people that I go to W and L, they either don't know where it is or confuse it with another school, or they are floored and impressed and often times have some sort of connection to the school. I spend most of time on campus either on "the hill" (main campus) or in the sorority house. We do not have a college town in that there isn't the typical bar scene, but there are plenty of places to go out, usually fraternity houses or off campus houses. I love the administration here, they couldn't be better. The biggest recent controversy on campus was when a girl in one of the sororities made a list of people from her own sorority and wrote what level of sexual activity each was willing to participate in, which was then forwarded to most every fraternity. A lot of girls were hurt, and she ended up leaving. I will always remember all of the theme parties/mixers where people get really creative with costumes. I think the most frequent student complaint would be that there is NO grade inflation and the classes are incredibly difficult.

My academic experience at Washington and Lee is unparalled among my friends and acquaintances. You get to know your professors extremely well. The classes are almost never over 20, and frequently 15 or under. Staff, Faculty and Administration treat you like gold and they are all very accomodating and interested in you and your future. (Except for a select few, but you figure who they are pretty quick). W&L is really small, my high school had a higher number of students, and quite cliqueish due to the very prevalent Fraternity/Sorority presence. People are still very friendly, and there is a tradition of saying hi to all you pass. If you are a girl, and not interested in joining a Sorority, either bring some like-minded friends with you or go somewhere else. Guys have a easier time being "independent" i.e. not in a frat, but there is still a fair amount of social pressure to join. Fortunately there are several student groups that have sprung up and support the independent lifestyle. The campus is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the spring. Lexington isn't much a college town, there are only two bars, and the number of restaurants and stores is limited. You can get by, but if you want any variety you have to travel 45 minutes to an hour away. W&L is very historic, it's the 9th oldest college in the United States and Robert E. Lee is buried on campus. I loved my experience here. It helped me get into graduate school, and as a nice bonus I met my wife at the Law school. (By the way, there's a law school. And it's in the top 25)

Washington and Lee is all about the small college experience. We've created our own community that gives you the support you need. Students, faculty, and staff are friendly and open. Everyone is proud to be at W&L, and we all strive to make the school better.

Washington and Lee is a small school, which has some disadvantages but definitely has some great advantages. I can walk into the dining hall and know someone there. Also, I can be involved in things that I could not otherwise. There is no way I would cheer at a bigger school. The town of Lexington is also very small, but it is cute and I have grown to love it. We are only an hour from Roanoke and I can go there if I ever really need a Starbucks or a mall. There is not a lot of school spirit in that athletic events are not very well attended, however we have a great alumni network who really love the school.

The best thing about W&L is the sense of community. Because of our honor system and small size, you can pretty much trust everyone. People leave backpacks, ipods, and laptops lying around campus and no one will touch them. Our social system, though somewhat divided because of fraternity/sorority rivalry, is very open. No one charges for parties, and for the most part, everyone is welcome at a fraternity party even if they are from another fraternity or independent.

best thing is the honor system, which allows you to take exams when you want, take-home tests, leave valuables out, not lock your room etc. teachers couldn't be more accessible, i wish lexington was more of a college town but charlottesville, roanoke, and lynchburg are only 1 hour away

The best thing about W&L are the class sizes, the professors, the beautiful campus, and the quality of people on the campus. One thing I would change about W&L isn't really about W&L it's the city in which W&L is. There is nothing to do besides study, work out, and drink...heavily. I think W&L is a great size. If you want to know everyone and like seeing the same people, you will love W&L, if not, then W&L isn't for you. I spend most of my time either in my room, class, the gym, or the library; I also spend a lot of time in the dining hall. There is a ton of school pride, but not in a sports way; we are all so proud of what our school stands for (honor, intergrity, prestige), but we do not support sports as much as I wish we did. W&L is unusual because we are all very friendly and smile at everyone we pass, regardless if you know the person or not.

The best thing about Washington and Lee is the social scene. Because the school is almost entirely Greek, the parties are incredible. Though beer is available at every party, hard liquor rules the alcohol scene to an extremity. However, though I enjoy the parties due to the Greek scene, if I could change Washington and Lee I would eliminate Greek life altogether. People often see Greek letters, not personalities, when they look at each other. In addition, many of us grew up very privileged, so we have a tendency to behave in snobbish ways and do not always think of others as we should. Furthermore, because the school is so "cliquey" due to the Greek scene, it often feels too small--for example, if you were to make out with a fraternity brother at a party, all of his fraternity brothers would know by Monday morning and you would be publicly scorned. When I tell people I go to Washington and Lee, most people do not understand the significance of the school. Unfortunately, many do not recognize that this university is among the most prestigious in the country and is also deeply rooted in this nation's history. It is not recognized by many that Robert E. Lee was president, or that Washington and Lee currently ranks #15 in academic excellence among the United States' liberal arts colleges. I spend most of my time on campus in the University Commons. Because the school is small, we have one centrally located student center that contains the cafeteria, the foods co-op, and several study rooms and meeting rooms for student convenience. The school is not a "college town", per say, though the town would be nothing without the college. Lexington is a frequent tourist destination, but 22.1{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the town's residents are below the poverty line and rely on student purchases to bring in revenue. Washington and Lee's administration is very good about connecting with the students and staying in touch with their wants and needs. This is a benefit of a small school, but it is also the result of Robert E. Lee's desire that this community remain close-knit and sensitive to itself.

the best thing are the people. everyone is friendly and interested in what is going on in your life. it is a small school but it is one where everyone knows everyone else. it is a small town but there is always something to do on campus or in the community. people who have heard of washington and lee are impressed when you say you go W&L. those who haven't heard of it are kind of like oh ok. the people who really matter when trying to get a job have generally heard of it so that's what matters. the administration is always looking to improve the campus but without being too overbearing. student self governance is something that defines W&L, with every organization being run and governed by students. there is a lot of school pride. students and alums feel connected and when you meet someone who graduated from W&L there is an instant connection and a sense of pride. the one thing students complain about is that everyone knows everything about everyone. it's a small community and people talk. the one thing i will remember is the opportunities W&L gave me to grow. my involvement in a variety of organizations helped me grow as a person and really discover what my strengths and weaknesses are. i feel completely prepared to enter the working world and social world after graduating from W&L.

Washington and Lee can be a great place if you can connect with the right group of friends, which a fraternity/sorority can usually help with. The social scene is a little skewed and most interactions between girls and guys occur at parties where alcohol is always present. People take their schoolwork very seriously and I work much harder than my friends at state schools do, but its not untollerable. The work hard play hard cliche really applies to W and L. Teachers are great and there are tuns of oppurtunity to get involved outside of classes with clubs/orginizations. I really love the fact W and L is in the middle of the blue ridge mountains and some of the prettiest scenery in the USA is 5 minutes from campus where I can fish/bike/hike.