Going
to W&L was the best decision I have made. As
you have read, it certainly is not the right school
for everyone. It is true that the social scene is
dominated by Greek Life (something like 92% pledge) but that
is not necessarily a negative. In high school, I did
not picture myself as the “fratty” type per se. What
is great about Washington and Lee is that all parties
are open (except some mixers and formals) and even if
you didn't think you would want to go greek, you
will be able to easily find a good group of
guys/girls who you really get along with. That being
said, there are other social outlets; we have singing groups,
intramural sports, bands, community service groups etc which one can
get involved in. The trick is to find a group
of friends and get involved with them.
Academically W&L
is great. It is challenging, but not to the point
where you cannot have a social life and maintain decent
grades. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable, and also extremely helpful.
They are always willing to meet with you or give
you feedback, you just have to approach them; they won't
hold you hand.
My one complaint would be that
the school's AP policy kind of sucks, don't expect much
credit for classes unless you got 5s on your tests.
As far as the school's reputation is concerned, it
is true that it is not “well known,” to the
generally public anyway. Anyone in academia or anyone at top
corporations will have heard of it, don't let that stupid
towny from wherever you live deter you because he hasn't
heard of it. W&L will be able to provide you
with any opportunities a big school can (minus a football
stadium of 45k). There is a very strong alumni network
and ample opportunities for internships, study abroad etc. Not to
mention the people that you meet at school as prestigious
as this one will be able to offer you additional
connections to their parent's companies and whatnot.
Of course,
you cannot have a review of Washington and Lee without
mentioning the honor code. Many school's brag of having a
great honor system, but none implement it quite the same
way as W&L . Our school embraces the honor system,
and the affects on the students can be seen everyday.
We have un-proctored tests, we schedule our own finals, we
leave our laptops everywhere, we don't lock our doors, and
the list goes on.
In reality, you have to
come to your own conclusions about the school. I highly
recommend doing an overnight, but make sure you go out
and experience the night life (so come on wednesday, friday
or saturday). Most people I have talked to said it
just “felt” right when they visited, so make sure you
get there!
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