Chapman University (CU)

With its "small school" setting and So-Cal vibe, it's easy to see why students are charmed by Chapman. The university "truly emphasizes personal growth, campus involvement, and global citizenship," factors that undergrads here appreciate. There's also "great technology available" and a "gorgeous campus" to boot. Even better, "research and internship [opportunities]" abound. Chapman students also tend to rave about their "very engaging" professors, who make a concerted effort to "explain complex concepts in an understandable way." As a health sciences major shares, "These teachers aren't out to get you-they challenge you academically but are willing to help you if you're stuck or confused." It's quite obvious that "they're very dedicated and interested in the subject matters that they teach." Most importantly, they strive "to build meaningful relationships with students." And a biochemistry major boasts, "They offer so much help outside of the classroom and want to see you succeed. My overall academic experience has been wonderful."

Chapman undergrads describe their peers as "kind, respectful, artistic, intelligent, and adventurous." A few suggest that the student body also leans toward the "affluent," "attractive," and "conservative," but note that for the most part, the campus is "accepting [of] diversity" and comes together around their common "driven" personalities. As such, Chapman avoids cutthroat competition, and instead is filled with students who "love to work together to understand the subject material." One major notes that "The mood of the student body is very collaborative. Everyone wants to socialize and be friendly and meet new people." As a sociology major puts it, "No matter what the interest is, whether... Greek life, community service, their major, or even their social life, [students here] are motivated to succeed in their endeavors."

It's nearly impossible to not lead a "full and engaging" life here at Chapman. After all, there's so many different things to do. To begin with, "the main campus provides concerts, plays, musical performances, art showings, and lectures, which are generally free for students." Additionally, "Dodge Film School has movie screenings...sometimes of movies that haven't come out yet." Chapman hosts plenty of "cool events like 'Yoga on the Lawn,' a winter festival or a chili cook off" as well. And we're also told that there's "a very large Greek presence." In fact, some undergrads insist that "Greek life can be instrumental in finding your group of friends." When the weekend rolls around, "there are usually house parties or people go to the local bars." However, many undergrads do complain that the parties tend to get shut down fairly early. Not surprisingly, students love attending school in Southern California. Chapman itself is located "right next to [Old Towne] Orange, which has many shops and restaurants where students love to walk around." Beyond that, "you can go to Disney, the beach, the Angels stadium, Los Angeles, San Diego, or wherever else tickles your fancy."