The University of Arizona

Date: Mar 05 2011
Major: Journalism (This Major's Salary over time)
I would describe myself as a friendly, outgoing person who loves to have fun, meet new people, socialize/party, while also taking school very seriously. I couldn't have been more excited to come here. No, it wasn't my first choice, not even my second or third. But, I decided to make the most of it and I couldn't wait! But from the moment I arrived things have gone from bad to worse to downright awful. This school has completely broken my spirit and literally sucked the life out of me. Thankfully, I will be transferring because if I had to stay here any longer than a year, I would probably go crazy and die.

First off, guys, if you do not rush a frat, you probably will not have a social life. No frat lets "outside" guys in. There are (almost) no exceptions to this rule either. And, at parties off campus (apartments,ect.), be prepared to pay your way in or show up with girls/alcohol. Now, for girls it is obviously a lot easier because you can get into any party assuming you are not a "grenade". But, it is also very hard for girls here to form a social circle unless they go greek. And don't expect to rush and get into a top house. Consider yourself lucky if you do, but most girls end up in tears by the end of the week. You too will probably end up calling your mother screaming into the phone in between crying your eyes out explaining to her how and why it just isn't fair. It takes a lot out of you, and if you end up not joining a sorority after rushing, it's very difficult to get past it and move on. Don't bother rushing without recs either, you will be cut first round. And if you do get into a sorority, be prepared to earn your spot. Most girls don't care about this part though- they are willing to do anything for a coveted spot in a top house.

For people who choose not to rush, don't get into a house, ect., you need to join something to have a social life (clubs, hall council, ect.). Also, don't expect people to be friendly here either. Nice people are few and far between and extremely hard to find. Most girls are snobs from Cali or the East Coast, and they will have you know this. It's not about who you are as a person, but rather the clothes you wear, purses you carry, jewelry you own, and car you drive. And, what your parents do. That's a big one. Girls are always running around talking about their CEO daddys. Tanning is also a big one here, be prepared to turn into a tanning salon junkie. The girls here also look down on the girls not in a house so be prepared. Appearance is also extremely important (looks wise), and girls will be cruel to you. Many have eating disorders or simply try not to eat because being fat here is, well.. not accepted. Also, most guys can be described as "douche bags". Seriously.

Academic wise, some classes are beneficial, some aren't. It's definitely not a top notch education or anything. Classes aren't too hard either. The only really hard classes here are in the math department, but most kids just end up taking their math requirement at Pima anyways. That is, after they realize they too cannot beat the math system here. I would describe the average student here as exactly that- average- when it comes to brains. Most aren't very smart. But don't get me wrong, there are some that stand out.

When it comes to Tucson- the area just isn't very nice. Just look up the crime rate, it will explain. Also, if you don't bring a car out, expect to be bored. Cabs fares are extremely expensive and off campus parties are always far.

Overall, my experience here has been horrendous. Nothing like what I expected. It's honestly so heartbreaking to me. The only thing I've been able to enjoy is the weather, beautiful sunsets, and nice landscaping (mountain views, palm trees). The rec center is also really nice. But seriously. Think long and hard before coming here. And if you are planning on attending U of A, I would consider real hard whether or not this is the school for you and how you can see yourself fitting in. Because if it's not the school for you, it will eat you alive.