The University of Nevada - Las Vegas

Date: May 18 2009
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
I've read a lot of these comments on this site, and quite frankly I believe that most of these people with negative reviews havent tried to make their college experience a great one that it potentially could be.

Academics:

Since I'm in the Hotel College, I've been very satisfied with my education thus far. I'm a Meeting and Event Management major, so I've gotten a great experience studying in the "worlds greatest laboratory". All of my professors have been out in the field and are very accomplished in the industry; they usually retire and come to UNLV to teach what they know. I've had some of the best instructors who know a lot of important people. If you get to know them on a personal level, they can do wonders for you when it comes to networking or getting a job. The only "bad" professors I've had so far are those who have taught my general ed. classes and are not affiliated with the Hotel College.

What's also great about UNLV's professors is that they are always easily accessible to get in contact with. They are required to have weekly office hours and if you can't make it during those given times, they are usually great about scheduling appointments. When you e-mail a professor they are also required to respond within 24 hours.

As far as class sizes go, most of my classes are smaller than my classes in high school. Usually it can be about an average of 30 people per class, with very limited large lecture hall classes. The larger classes are usually classes in the 100-200 level, and once you move into the upper division they are a lot smaller in size and have an intimate environment that promotes classroom discussion. What's great about these small class sized is most of my professors know me on a first name basis so you are not just another number. While some people think this is a negative, you ultimately learn more this way and get more out of each class you take.

Facilities

Since UNLV is still a new school, new buildings replacing the old ones are popping up almost every year. The student union, student recreation and wellness center and the Urban Affairs College are just to name a few. All of these buildings are very modern to fit the fast growing metropolitan city of Las Vegas.

I personally think the new Student Recreation and Wellness Center is one of the best in the country. Its 4 levels which includes a cardio room, racquetball courts, indoor basketball/soccer/volleyball courts, olympic sized lap pool, jacuzzi, leisure pool, locker rooms, weight room, great basketball courts and an indoor track with a great view of the strip. They also have a variety of classes available such as indoor cycling, yoga and kick boxing. Whats even better is this facility is free for students who are enrolled full-time (at least 12 credits). Its not only free, but convenient to go before, in-between or after classes because of its long hours between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. during the week.

Social

Ive read that a lot of students have complained about UNLV being a “commuter school so there is nothing to do on campus and its difficult to get involved. I disagree. UNLV strongly encourages student involvement and because of this theres over 150 clubs and organizations on campus. If there isnt one that you are interested in joining, you can start your own. Our student government will give you 500 to go towards funding.

Greek Life here is relatively small and there is no sponsored greek housing. None of the sororities have houses and a few of the fraternities do, but not all. Its a small tight-knit group of people with a real sense of community and is hands down one of the best ways to meet people. However greek life isnt for everyone, and there are plenty of other opportunities available to meet people and get involved.

For those students who are from Las Vegas, I would highly recommend living in the dorms. This gives you the college experience and its a great way to meet people. Its required for freshman outside of Clark County to live in the dorms as well, so dont sign a waiver to get out of it. The dorms are how you meet people.

Again, for those people that said UNLV doesnt have a very good social environment, its because they havent given any effort into getting involved. College in general is what you make of it, so make it the best experience you possibly can.

Tuition/Price

I know of a lot of people who came to UNLV for the Millennium Scholarship and pay in-state tuition. This is a very affordable option. If you are an out-of-state student there are scholarships available as well such as the Western Undergraduate Exchange Program. You can also apply for residency after you have live in Vegas for a 12-month period.

Im from California and Im in the WUE, I pay less for UNLV as an out-of-state student than I would at a UC or Cal State School. Im not only going to school for cheaper, Im getting a very great education as well.

Overall, UNLV is a great school and its honestly what you make of it. If you want to have a positive experience, get involved, pick your professors wisely and focus on your school work. You wont be disappointed.