The University of Massachusetts - Amherst

Though I have had many good times at this school (more towards the beginning of the year), I felt that UMass started going downhill after the first couple of months. First off, your social life depends on what dormitory the school houses you in, which really isn't fair to someone who is as outgoing as myself. I got housed in Sylvan, which is by far one of the worst areas of dorms I have ever seen in my college experience. It is the part of campus that has suite-style living and coincidentally a place where all the typical social outcasts live. I cannot understand why anyone in their right mind would chose to live there. The rooms are small (10 x 15 ft) and it is in a bad location in terms of classes and social events. I found myself taking 15-20 minutes to walk to class everyday, which was undesirable especially considering the ugly concrete landscape. My stupid roommate, who just sat in the room and played pokemon on his gameboy day and night didn't help much either.

The second semester I moved to Southwest, hoping to forget the misery I felt my first semester in Sylvan. Though it is in a better location, has better food, and overall has more of a down-to-earth college atmosphere, I still didn't feel very welcomed. I am an international student (raised in Europe) and wanted a good American college experience. The international student population being 1%, made it very hard for me atleast to relate to anyone who went there. Sure, I made friends and I generally had an OK time, I felt that I would have a better time with a more diverse student population.

And btw, the parties pretty much suck. They are all packed as shit and theres no room to really do anything. There is also always a cover charge for all frat parties, but don't expect to get beer because it will probably take you hours.All in all, I wouldnt suggest coming here. If your looking for the type of school that has no diversity, shitty food, 500 student class sizes, NO financial aid, and ugly landscape.. suit yourself.

1st Year Male -- Class 2011

Friendliness: C+, Education Quality: F

Hell! That pretty much describes this god forsaken place. Looking at the people around me makes me think that my opinion would not be generally supported. However, the students around me are kept complacent by a combination of excessive alcohol consumption and drug laced food(?) supplied by University Food Services. One thing that they won't tell you in the brochures or during orientation is that by enrolling in this university you give up all rights as a citizen of the US and put your fate in the hands of a fascist regime (and yes they do have rights to your first born) . Be prepared to fight for even your basic needs. Hungry? Need a shower? How about a place to hang your clothes? a place to park your car? a job? a required class? a book? Good luck!

1st Year Female -- Class 2005

Friendliness: A, Collaboration/Competitive: F