Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)

It's easy to understand why students feel Carnegie Mellon is "one of the brightest universities in the country." After all, the university offers "unlimited opportunities for academic exploration and mastery." Indeed, CMU undergrads value "the interdisciplinary nature of many departments here" as it certainly "enhances [their] education." One individual elaborates, "I like that it allows students of different majors to collaborate and get to know each other, expanding general knowledge" in the process. Academically, the engineering and computer science programs are popular and "rank very highly." Another student shares, "The curriculum is very advanced in all the STEM courses so people graduate with the most up-to-date knowledge and skills." Though the vast majority of classes at CMU are on the smaller side, some students observe that "lower-level classes tend to be large lectures." That said, classes overall put a "huge focus on problem-solving, rather than memorization," which students appreciate. And while some admit there are some courses "incredibly difficult and at many times overwhelming," the overall "academic experience itself [is] enriching." And for many, a few grueling classes is worth it, as "CMU is very well-connected to many industries and organizations, and it is very feasible for CMU students to use the university as a launching pad into their interests."

Students at Carnegie Mellon immediately note that their peers tend to be incredibly "academically focused" and "set themselves to a very high standard in their work." Fortunately, they still know how to foster "a supportive learning environment where students help each other grow. There's no toxic competition among us." But there is no denying that many are "intensely working for internships and jobs which will carry us in the future." This type of dedication to excellence extends beyond the classroom as well, with students saying their peers are "really passionate about things they do," including their extracurriculars. Though a few individuals do lament that some classmates "find that participating in other organizations is only a means to add things to a resume, rather than have fun in school," most feel it's "more important to have a healthy work-life balance."Socially, "many people [at CMU] are introverts." Although people like to stick to their groups-like athletes or international students-"the student body can be diverse if you don't stay in your bubble." At CMU, "everyone is a quirky kid" and has "unique interests and hobbies that you wouldn't expect." As one student notes, "You can have a good conversation with almost anyone about their courses, their departments, homework, different professors, etc."

Life at Carnegie Mellon moves at a frenetic pace. "There's always something to do and experience." As one undergrad explains, "Whether it's programming, singing a cappella, dancing Bhangra, driving in Buggy races, we invest and spend a lot of time in everything we do." Of course, it helps that "the school's extracurriculars are sensational." Many feel "there's such a wide variety of...clubs, events, and traditions" that there's something for everyone. "I have enjoyed academic bowl, model UN, ultimate Frisbee, and the Black student organization. There are also professional and other minority organizations, mock trial, intramural and club sports, a newspaper and other policy magazines," one student notes.

When the weekend rolls around, you can always find "some sort of party" or a handful of students heading "out to bars and clubs," though many people are also content with "movie and game nights." Finally, CMU undergrads also love to experience all that Pittsburgh has to offer. You can often find people "heading into the neighboring areas of

Oakland, Squirrel Hill, and Shadyside to grab food and hang out." Plus, the city has tons "of cool museums," and the university is "situated between two nice parks" which are always great for a stroll.