Valparaiso University

Date: Jan 26 2004
Major: Communications (This Major's Salary over time)
Valparaiso is a great university for a person who is really self motivated and likes hands-on learning. As a communications major at times I felt like I was at a disadvantage at VU because we didn't have all the fancy new equipment, etc like many other schools, but out in the real world I really appreciate all the hands-on experience I received. I was able to be on-air at WVUR (the student radio station) as a freshman and had a full 4 years of pretty extensive radio experience by the time I graduated—a real plus. The professors become friends, and really know their stuff. Don't be fooled, however, classes can be really tough.

Valpo's reputation got me my first on-air gig … but after moving down South I will admit that VU's name recognition is virtually non-existent outside of the Midwest. When I tell folks I'm a graduate of VU I get either "Valpa-what??" or .. "oh wow .. that's a really good school" … there's no in between.

As for my years at Valpo .. I was a non-greek and felt rather left out on some weekends, and I do think there are some anti-greek attitudes. Yep, you do have some clicks .. greek, "bible beaters", etc., but there's a quite a variety in the student body if you look for it. Valparaiso as a town isn't really happening—if you're looking for a hip and cool spot to spend your 4 years .. this isn't it. With a car, however, there's plenty to do .. downtown Valpo is cute, Chicago a short drive away, the dunes, etc. Having said all of this, I made lots of lifelong friends at VU. I wouldn't trade the experience for anything.