University of Massachusetts--Amherst | Student Reviews | Best College

Student Profile

Elizabeth

Class: Junior
Major: Psychology
Gender: F

High School: Lewiston-Porter
Transfer Student: N

Big Picture

I think the greatest thing about UMass is its vast and diverse population. You never know who or what you are going to see walking (or biking, my preferred method of transport) around campus. However, I admit at times, I feel a bit lost in the shuffle--It is rare that I see a familiar face when walking around. Honestly, for grad school, I hope to seek out a school that has a slightly more...connected feeling. I am from Niagara Falls, New York. Most people in my neck of the woods are not very familiar with UMass Amherst, but they seem to think it's a good school--in Boston. I frequent the library--I love the quiet floors (2nd and 3rd) and the coffee is great! It is a bustling hub of campus, and I like the acitivity. I also spend much of my time in the BlueWall. In the nice weather, I try to take advantage of the sunshine, and hang out by the Campus Pond. I love all the vibes each part of campus has to offer!

Academic Life

For most classes, I make it a point to know the professors, and have them know me. In particular, professors in my major (psychology) recognize me when I am cycling by on campus. However, I find it a much more rewarding experience if you and your professor know one another. The smaller seminar-style of the ComCol classes affords this opportunity. I suggest every student make themselves known to their professors--It's makes class much more worthwhile and personal--even a 400 person lecture.

Student Body

In freshman year, I lived in Crampton, in Southwest. The dorm is located across from the Stonewall Center. I never had direct experience with anyone involved in this association, however, I remember feeling glad that such a service existed. I am the typical UMass student--white, english-speaking. However, my roommate is black. She is also a dear friend whom I have known since freshman year. We are frequently seen together, and it never fails--someone will always give us a double-take. However, it is oftentimes not students, but adults that give us sidelong looks. ~Despite what I have just said, UMass is a campus that welcomes diversity--There are about 17,000 students on this campus, and everyone can find their place among this number.