Washington and Lee University Top Questions

I hate this school. I really do.

On the plus side, the Lexington and the surrounding area are strikingly beautiful and there are some fun outdoor activities such as hiking. Now for the negatives...Most people, even in Virginia, haven't heard of Washington and Lee...they often get confused and think of William and Mary or Mary Washington.

W&L has been around for a long time, and the traditions and history of this school give us a great reputation. Not everyone knows about this school, but the people who do are always impressed and are usually well off themselves. The alumni networkhttp://www.unigo.com/explorer/reviews/takethesurvey.aspx?collegeid=194#; of this school is awesome, and W&L folks look out for each other all across the US. The education students receive here is top notch, and the faculty are some of the best in their respective fields. Class sizes are small, so most professors know all their students by name and get to know them on a personal basis. Students also get to know each other well, because you're bound to run into people more than once at such a small school. Lexington isn't really a college town, but there's a bunch of great places to eat and some unique shops you won't find in a big city. There aren't any dance clubs or major bars in town so most partying is done off-campus. The big thing to remember is that a degree from this school carries a lot of weight with a lot of people. The students from this school go on to do great things in business, law, medicine, and politics.

Honestly, W&L has been perfect for me. I love the small class sizes, how accessible my professors are, all the clubs and activities, the campus, everything. I even love Lexington--it's no big city, but I'm okay with that. The three hours to DC really is reasonable, and I don't have to worry about parking!

Washington and Lee is the best place on Earth! I can't imagine being happier at any other school. The administration knows students personally and will work with us to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Being the 9th oldest school in the entire country, there is an incredible amount of history here (including Robert E. Lees tomb). Throughout its history, many traditions have made W&L unique. The speaking tradition is one of my personal favorites: started by Lee himself, each student will smile, say hello, or otherwise acknowledge anyone who walks by them. It's about being nice, friendly, and establishing a sense of community. The academics here are quite demanding, but the small classes and brilliant professors make it well worthwhile. This school cares about its students and it will show you one of the best times of your entire life. I will forever remember the wonderful experiences and people from W&L. Lastly, the honor system is a huge part of the school. There is but one rule here at W&L, that everyone will be a gentleman or a lady at all times. If you lie, cheat, or steal, you are expelled from the university; otherwise, we enjoy an incredible amount of freedom and personal responsibility. It's truly a wonderful system.

W&L is located in a picturesque, typical "college town." It is quaint and charming. Chivalry actually exists and the speaking tradition makes for a friendly atmosphere.

I think the thing I like best about Washington and Lee is the emphasis we have on tradition. Some of these quirky events include: dressing up for football games, putting pennies on the grave of Traveller (Robert E Lee's horse) for goodluck before midterms, the speaking tradition (saying hello to people you pass around campus), and other things. The Honor System, though, is without a doubt the defining aspect of W&L. The system is manifested in many ways on campus: unproctored tests; self-scheduled exams, doors and cars remain unlocked; computers, ipods, and other valuables are left unattended in the library or other places around campus. Students trust each other and treat each other with respect. Similarly, professors trust their students. W&L has an Honor System that truly works. Rather than being a set of rules, the Honor System is a way of life, by which W&L students daily abide.

1. Beautiful campus 2. Small class sizes + awesome professors 3. An Honor System that really works 4. Greek Life 5. Alumni who love W&L

The big picture of W&L is that it is a small, close-knit school. The classes are hard but the rewards are great. Professors teach small classes and bend over backwards for their students. As hard as everyone works they play harder, there is not a dull friday or saturday night.

Alcohol. Bow-ties. middle of nowhere.