Auburn University

Date: Dec 01 2009
Major: Economics (This Major's Salary over time)
I agree with the positive and negative comments that I've read below; regardless, I'm still glad that I chose this school.

I can see why many of Auburn's individual colleges/departments are ranked in the top 20/30 of public schools nationwide, but Auburn as a whole is ranked 39th. I'm not from the South and I am disappointed with the lack of diversity within the student population, and not just ethnically. Auburn ranks high on the

Alternative Lifestyles not an Alternative

list of schools, and this goes beyond religion/moral philosophy. It includes way of dress, music preferences… basically anything that makes you unique is likely to be frowned upon. Frats and sororities are big, and being a southern belle/gentleman is a must. So yeah, the lack of individuality sucks. But don't fret, though while most students fit this (boring) mold, there are enough people who don't to make a sizeable number of friends. Go walk around the college of liberal arts and the architecture/music building if you don't believe me. Parking sucks, there is not enough housing, and the restaurants serve boring food and close at random times.

The education, however, is great. It's challenging but not ridiculous. Professors want you to learn, but not to fail/give up. Perhaps I've gotten lucky, but I've never had any professor problems. Auburn excels in agriculture, architecture, economics, aerospace/wireless engineering, and veterinary medicine. All of the programs are worth the tuition. The honors college caters to its students. I was GIVEN money to study abroad. This school really is worth the investment.

On top of that, Auburn is a great (a "Top 10" by US News) place to live. I came from a metroplex (6+ million people) afraid I would tire of this small town, but it is simply beautiful here. The top-ranked architecture program has played an integral part in the development/preservation of the area. The physical geography is fantastic. Montgomery, Birmingham, and Atlanta are close. I plan on furthering my education elsewhere, but I see myself revisiting this town when I'm long gone.