Furman University

Date: Mar 08 2011
Major: Psychology (This Major's Salary over time)
Don't be too quick to write Furman off because it isn't ranked as highly as some of the top liberal arts schools. Lack of "name brand" recognition aside, I truly believe that anyone who goes here will receive a top-notch education. Just like MANY Furman students, I was accepted into some big name schools, but chose to attend Furman due to their giving me a very generous merit scholarship.

I believe the teaching quality here is just as good as elsewhere. The classes are small and the professors are accessible and truly wants to connect with every student. I have been shocked with the amount of individual attention I have received.

However, if you are looking for the stereotypical "Ivy League" sort of intellectual atmosphere among students, where students debate philosophy and politics far into the night, that will be difficult to find. Although Furman students are extremely bright, I feel they are driven by grades rather than learning for its own sake. A small failing of the student body; however, if you wish to have this experience I am sure you could find it somewhere if you look hard enough.

Campus culture - very much white, Christian, Southern. There is drinking and partying, but not nearly as much as most schools, so I wouldn't come here if you are looking for that. Most students study very hard, almost continuously. So many people go home on weekends that it often feels like a suitcase school. Dining Hall (DH) food isn't great. Greek scene is big, but I'm not part of it and am doing fine. GERS (Gen Ed Requirements) are extensive and can be a little annoying, but the profs are so good that they're not really that bad. NOTE: Yes, you really do need a car. Promise.

Two more thoughts:

First, the psychology department is wonderful. It is one of the hardest majors on campus, but worth it 100 times over. Every professor in the dept is ridiculously brilliant, wonderful teachers, and SO caring about their students. My major classes have been far and beyond the best classes I have taken, and all the students have bonded into a big family. Can't believe I'm graduating in only two more years!

Second, STUDY AWAY. Furman has WONDERFUL study away programs where you travel with a few Furman professors taking classes from them. Yes, it sounds a little field trip-y, but with their guidance you would be able to learn and do things you perhaps wouldn't be able to if you were studying abroad alone.