Brandeis University (Brandeis)

Situated just outside of Boston, Brandeis University is a phenomenal school that "teaches... the value of hard work, cultivates curiosity and [an] interest in learning, and introduces one to various perspectives." Importantly, the university offers undergrads "the opportunity to explore every possible interest, from cupcakes to neuroscience, with the overwhelming support of faculty and peers." Because Brandeis embraces a policy of academic "flexibility," students feel free to "to study whatever they want." There's also an "abundance of undergraduate research opportunities in all majors." Overall, undergrads here find their coursework "challenging" and "rewarding." Inside the classroom, they are greeted by "engaging, insightful, and responsive" professors who truly make an effort to "relate to students." As one delighted individual shares, "My current bio teacher is known for using memes in her lectures, and they're usually pretty funny." It's also quite evident that professors "care for their students and want them to be successful." To that end, they strive to make themselves "accessible" and "encourage students coming to talk to them." Perhaps that's why one highly contented undergrad asserts, "I strongly believe the professors are one of Brandeis's most appealing aspects."

It's safe to say that Brandeis students really care for their peers. After all, they rush to describe them as "intelligent, driven, [and] kind-hearted." They also seem to maintain "a diverse range of interests (both academic and extracurricular) and are extremely passionate about everything they are involved in." Moreover, undergrads readily admit that they "do have the tendency to be a little more on the introverted and nerdy side." And they truly love that their classmates are often "quirky and a little weird in the best way possible." As one student explains, "There is no normal Brandeis. I love that I can wear whatever I want because I know there's nowhere where it will be a problem that I don't fit in or feel judged. Everyone's attitude is kind of 'do whatever you want to/need to do.'" Given that openness, it's not too surprising to learn that Brandeis students also report that their classmates are quite "friendly." Indeed, a student reports, "Everyone here is very welcoming and supportive and they push me to try a bit harder every day, while offering support whenever it is needed without even having to be asked to do so."

At Brandeis, academics often take top priority. And first-year students quickly discover that "on weeknights the library is the most social spot on campus." But fear not; undergrads here still manage to find plenty of time to step away from the books. In fact, we're told that "Brandeis thrives on its campus club and student activities culture," which makes sense given that there are over 200 clubs on campus to join. Many students can be found participating "in community service clubs, cultural clubs, electronics clubs, and religious organizations, do research in labs, perform in musicals and plays, participate in sport events, and play music in ensembles." Undergrads also simply "enjoy the green spaces on campus and have fun connecting [there] with other students." Once the weekend rolls around, "there are always shows going on, whether it's theatre, a cappella, or improv." Additionally, there tend to be "sports events and guest lecturers." Undergrads also frequently attend "Greek life events off campus." However, those gatherings are "not sanctioned by the university." Lastly, students love the school's "[close] proximity" to Cambridge and Boston. And since Brandeis has a commuter rail stop on campus and runs a free shuttle on weekends, both cities are wholly "accessible" and provide a great respite from campus life.