Sarah
Not every school is the right fit for everybody, and W&L is no exception. Don't come if: you don't want to party. This does not mean drink! Plenty of people have a social life and stay sober, but it is important that you are open to other people drinking, because it is a beloved past time of many students. Don't come if: you don't like to study. This is college; there are papers, and tests, and yes, even some homework. None of these are easy, and all take time. Don't come if: you don't like to be involved. We have a huge percentage of students in athletics, fine arts groups, organizations and university committees. Don't come if: you are adverse to travel. We are in the middle of no where, and it takes effort to get here. Shopping is also a difficulty: the closest mall is an hour away. Finally, don't come if: you don't like extreme weather. Coming from Texas, I didn't know what cold was, but you learn quickly to adapt. Layering is a must. It can also get very hot (there is a lot of on campus tanning). It also rains, a lot.
Elizabeth
You have to be tough, and love to socialize to have fun here. It's important to know that the social scene, specifically the Greek Life scene become nearly insignificant by senior year and begins to dwindle considerably Junior year. As long as you remember that the reason you are in college is to learn, you will be able to keep things in perspective, W&L offers a great education with a wild-ride of a social scene to match.
Kelly
W&L is not for everyone. It is a school you either love or hate, but if being here for fall term as a freshman doesn't scare you off then chances are you'll love it for life.
Laura
My school is very interested in social prowess and fashion. The Greek system dominates everything, and men are extremely disrespectful to women.
Alex
W&L is a great school. It is a wonderful place, and gives its students an amazing education and experience.
Torry
Being at W&L has been one of the best experiences in my life. Something is always happening on campus, even though we are in a small town with VMI next door. The professors and students really do have a relationship of mutual respect; and since we’re in a smaller liberal arts school, it’s very easy to get involved in what you’re passionate about, whether sports, clubs, or you have the ability to create what you’re looking for. W&L alumni are just as passionate about W&L as the current students here on campus, and the alumni want W&L students to succeed in life after college. I saw this when I went to an alumni’s house for accepted students before my first year, and I was convinced when I got an internship in my selected field sophomore year that was presented to me by W&L alumni. The W&L experience doesn’t end after your four years; it stays with you for a lifetime.
Stephanie
The sense of community - both on campus and around the country. The alumni network is very strong, as are the bonds forged with students during their time on campus. We recognize the value of our school and the educational advantages it allows us. Students here feel fortunate and connected due to the very selective admissions as well as the sense of honor and tradition that pervade the entire community.
Luke
Washington and Lee University is an excellent educational experience for the comitted and intelligent student. Be prepared to spend five hours a day outside of class on schoolwork on a regular weekday, and more when preparing for tests. The social life is unparalelled, with a highly involved Southern greek scene that you will find nowhere else in the United States. The alumni are comitted to the university and its students, and have no problem either helping you find a job after college or sitting on the porch reminicing upon their days at Washington and Lee.
Catherine
Very strong emphasis on acting like "ladies" and "gentlemen." Basically a very strict honor code, but one that is for the benefit of you as the student.
Charlie
Zach on his favorite things about UW.