Western Illinois University (WIU)

Affordability is key at medium-sized and largely career-oriented Western Illinois University. Western's undergraduate cost guarantee ensures that the price you pay for tuition, fees, and on-campus room and board won't increase for four years, provided that you remain continuously enrolled. Sure, you counter, but it'll take six years to graduate, right? Don't worry; there's also a graduation guarantee. If you meet the GradTrac program's requirements and don't graduate within four years, the remainder of your tuition is on the house. There are more than 80 majors available here. If criminal justice is your bag, Western offers "one of the top law enforcement programs in the country," and the largest outside of Texas and Florida. Meteorology, supply chain management, and broadcasting are also stellar. Faculty members at WIU are "knowledgeable" and "usually very good." "Most professors I have encountered seem genuinely pleased to go out of their way to help you," relates a physics major. "They are very helpful outside of class." "I have had plenty of teachers holding study groups after their office hours," adds a law enforcement major. "The administration is very helpful" as well. "You can e-mail the school president at any time," swears a geology major, "and he will read your e-mail, and reply."

More than 90 percent of the undergrads at Western hail from somewhere in Illinois. "Much of the college is made up of students from the greater Chicago area," some four hours northwest. "There is also a large population of students who grew up in a more rural setting." Nontraditional students rate as a sizeable contingent as well. People here describe themselves as "just your average college students." They are "friendly" and "extremely laid-back." There are students who "study hard, go to class, and get great grades." There are students who "slack majorly." There are "police officer hopefuls with arms that swing like old Hulk Hogan action figures." "It is very easy to find a place where you belong."

The campus is fairly small. "It only takes 10 minutes to walk from one end to the other." Athletic and recreational facilities are reportedly excellent. And though student support for the intercollegiate teams is "lacking," Western boasts one of the world's greatest athletic monikers, the Fighting Leathernecks. Otherwise, you'll find "a very homelike atmosphere," "fun events," and "plenty of organizations." "There's a club or sport here for everyone," promises a sophomore. "Greek life is a great strength." About 10 percent of all undergrads pledge frats and sororities. Most students aren't very big fans of Macomb, the "very small town" that surrounds their school. It's "in the middle of a cornfield," they say, and there "isn't very much to do." "There is really nothing in this town but Western," warns a junior. The one thing that Macomb does offer is "a pretty heavy bar scene." Western is "famous for its partying," and drinking at bars and house parties are "a huge part" of the weekend for many students.