The University of Miami

Date: May 05 2003
Major: Economics (This Major's Salary over time)
I transferred into the University of Miami as a Junior, having been to two of Florida's "premiere" state schools. Thus I feel that I have both the knowledge and understanding of a wide variety of schools to make a good assessment of UM. So here goes. First, the University of Miami under Donna Shalala is rapidly becoming one of the most prestigious schools in the southeast U.S. I grew up in south Florida, so I know the University's reputation then and now. Almost all of the professors here hold a doctorate, and they even teach classes (unlike at state schools). In my majors (economics, international studies, management) the coursework is thought-provoking and challenging. The professors encourage you to apply theoretical stuff to real world situations, and take that out into the community.

There are a ton of kids with a lot of money here. That's not to say they are snobby, but kids who grew up rich tend to have a different perspective on things. However, Miami is an expensive city to live in, so they're well adapted to life here.

That is not to say that it is hard to "integrate" into campus life. This isn't high school, so you have to pro-active when looking for things that interest you, but if you put in the time, any of your interests can be accomadated.

The University has an incredible athletic reputation, and the city of Miami really supports the University.

The administration actually does care about its students, and if you want funding for clubs, trips, or community projects, they are more than willing to work with you. Also, in how many other schools does the president visit students in dorm rooms all the time.

This school is incredible, and my only regret about it is that I did not start as a freshman. Go Canes!