Weber State University (WSU)

 Students at Weber State University are greeted by a warm and caring faculty who "want [you] to succeed" and will "do almost anything to help." Indeed, one impressed junior notes that many professors are "interested in the student and are very willing to help you succeed," which makes you "feel not just like a number." One student thinks that the level of academics (and the 230 "amazing" undergraduate programs offered) "would surprise people." Importantly, "small class sizes" are "brilliant for young undergraduates interested in research." "Even in my bigger class I still get attention," says one undergrad. The concern for students is fostered by the fact that the "affordable" Weber State "is a 'teaching' institution as opposed to a 'research' institution." "I feel like my education is in great hands because of the amazing professors I am learning from." While the majority of undergrads are quick to sing the praises of the faculty, a few are less enamored with the administration. Some say that the administration is "willing to listen to student concerns and issues," others argue that the administration "seems to not even exist."

On the surface, Weber State may not appear to be a very diverse place. As a "commuter campus," the university attracts many students from Utah and the surrounding areas, though there are plenty to be found from out of state. Regardless of origin, everyone is "very independent and goal-oriented" and "focused on getting a well-rounded education with a little social life." Additionally, many students identify themselves as being "white Christians who belong to the LDS faith," and there is a sizeable Middle Eastern population at Weber State. One facet where undergraduates see some variety is age range. Students are almost equally divided "between traditional (young and single) and non-traditional (older with spouses and/or children)." The school defines "older" as 25 and up. And one senior adds, "The typical student lives off campus and works during the day." Fortunately, if you've got the desire, "It is easy to make friends and get along with others if you put in the effort."

The majority of Weber undergrads agree that "campus life is, for the most part, quiet due to the commuter-school status." Though student affairs tries to drum up attendance at events, "it is hard to get people to attend activities and to socialize." Unfortunately, "most students commute to school and then go home," so student involvement is sorely lacking. "People come here for a great education and not for the party," explains one student. Despite this daily mass exodus, excitement and entertainment can still be found, and it's "easy to get involved." School dances, such as the "foam dance, Halloween dance, [and] homecoming" may not happen all that often, but they're still beloved. Sporting events are also a popular pastime, including "basketball, football, rugby, [and] hockey." The campus is located in "a beautiful area" that is prime for activities of the fun-in-nature variety, and you "gotta love outdoors" if you want to fit in at Weber. "We have the mountains close at hand for a fun snowboarding trip; we have the mountains right behind us to go rock climbing and hiking; and we have lakes to go wakeboarding," lists a student (leaving out mention of the discounted ski passes that students receive). Ogden also offers "more yummy places to eat than you know what to do," and downtown Salt Lake City "is just 25 minutes away." The city offers a number of distractions including "a pretty good music scene and a handful of popular coffee shops and clubs."