James Madison University Top Questions

In the Communications department, professors do know most students by name. I gave a presentation yesterday with two professors and five other students during a CHOICES meeting (an open house for accepted students). I continually nodded in agreement as I listened to my professors speak about how they care about their students, both inside and outside of the classroom. On the same note, it's important to say that by no means do they suffocate us, but I know I can walk into their office hours with any topic on my mind. Class participation is very common. I would say the majority of my classes have been around 20-30 people or less. Classes are even smaller once you reach upper level courses, for example four out of five of my current classes has 15 or less students. I love the student/teacher ratio because it really allows for everyone to voice their opinions or ideas. As I already mentioned, JMU professors are really interested in hearing student's viewpoints, and every class that I have been in has encouraged participation (even since Freshmen year). I think JMU has good academic requirements. We have a really strong general education program which everyone is required to take. The Gen-Ed program is beneficial for undeclared students since you have to take a variety of classes, you can see which school might be the best fit for you. Although, it's annoying to have to take classes that are your weakness (math and science for me), you also take classes that you never expected to like. For instance, I had to take an art history class Freshmen year, and it turned out to be one of my favorites - I actually found it fun and relaxing to read the textbook, which I never thought I would think of any class. Therefore, I encourage students to experiment when choosing Gen-Ed's because you might really enjoy a class you never expected.