James Madison University (JMU)

James Madison University is a public university in Harrisonburg, Virginia, offering its nearly 20,000 undergraduates the choice of 76 majors and access to an entire catalogue of worldclass research and experiential opportunities. Students say there are "plenty of resources for tutoring [and] career development" at the Student Success Center, among other strengths that include "grad prep, career prep, job search, interview help, mental health services, food, [and] atmosphere." There is a great "diversity of professions one can major and minor in," as well as "different tactics to teaching that aren't just lectures. Teachers actively want you to learn, not just spit back information." Students appreciate the results, like "reversed classrooms, where the content is primarily learned at home, and then reviewed in class to ensure understanding" and "a discussion-based simulation class." They also praise the practical aspect of courses in the planetarium or for scuba diving, where it feels as if "every class can lead to certifications."

"Access to faculty is amazing," reports another student, noting how easy it "to speak with professors about classes, careers, research, independent projects, etc. in and out of class." One student says: "They've gone above and beyond to teach me, problem-solve with me, and get me real-world experience." The staff also does well to accommodate students of all levels and needs, with one undergrad noting that they're "attentive and are very willing to do what they can for you," including providing people "to talk to and opportunities to prevent stress and anxiety." All in all, the university's "leadership takes a very active role in the student experience."

James Madison University "is a diverse community full of the kindest people," specifically the sort who are "very easygoing and inclusive, which makes it super easy to go up to strangers and have a normal conversation." The student body is "largely white, middleclass, East Coast-raised," but as a whole, it's "a combination of people from all over the country that joined together to create an inviting and open community," and "a safe space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves." The rallying cry at JMU is "Dukes hold doors!" which makes sense for this "positive, fun, outgoing group of students, the sort where, "if a student here was in need and asked another student for help, I think 9 [out of] 10 students would drop what they were doing to help them."

Because the James Madison University "campus is scenic," students tend to stay there "throughout the day to do homework and study, go to the gym, and get food." On an average day, you may see "students reading, painting/drawing, or even playing music on the Quad," says one. As far as spending time indoors, "facilities are clean, updated, [and] large enough to support the large student body." Off-campus, people enjoy "walking downtown to Harrisonburg and checking out the little shops and going antiquing." Many also like to "go to football games where we festively throw streams," but there's no one activity you have to do: "some people choose to go out at night and some choose to stay in and watch movies." That goes for the "many ways to get involved with organizations" and the numerous "social activities proctored by the school, too, like quad events, and lawn games...JMU has very strong school spirit." Together, the "gorgeous campus and friendly atmosphere create an environment that helps you stay mentally healthy and motivated to learn." It's a vibe, according to one student: "You can definitely tell that people enjoy their time here."