University of Delaware (UD)

The University of Delaware provides “strong academic programs, particularly in STEM, and the accessibility of hands-on research opportunities for undergraduates.” With the only R1 designation in the state, students enjoy “many opportunities for undergraduate research and paid summer internships.” For instance, those studying astronomy can visit the Mount Cuba Astronomical Observatory and utilize the computer lab, telescopes, and “go onto the roof of the building and use handmade astrolabes to track the movement of stars.” Similarly, students studying information systems have the opportunity to “use simulations and work with real data to solve business problems, and some professors encourage group projects that mimic professional work environments.” Students find it gratifying to take on community-improvement projects, such as addressing Heat Awareness Week: “It helped me step outside of my comfort zone [and] actively participate in discussions.” Lively classroom environments are a common motif campus-wide, and students value that “professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and invested in student success, offering support both academically and professionally.” Not only are professors said to have “helped me transition from high school to college easily,” but the “wonderful and amazing staff” also “do their best to work with my schedule and treat me like an honorary member of the university!” One UD student summed it up best, saying: “Overall, my academic experience has been challenging but very rewarding, with strong support from faculty and ample opportunities for hands-on learning, collaboration, and intellectual growth.”

Students say there’s a wide variety of students here, united by how they’re “both driven and grounded. Many students balance full course loads with jobs, research, internships, athletics, or family responsibilities, which creates a culture of accountability and resilience.” In the classroom, students value UD’s “diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and ambitions. You can sit next to someone who is the first in their family to attend college, someone preparing for medical or law school, and someone building a startup, all in the same lecture.” Specifically, one student values friends who encourage “asking questions and helping me understand topics I’m confused about.” In agreement, another student describes peers that are “supportive and collaborative rather than overly competitive, which makes it easier to build connections both inside and outside the classroom.” Many do so by striking a “good balance between working hard and having fun.” Whether it’s on campus or part of Greek life, “there’s a large emphasis on getting involved because you will 100% meet your people if you try something out.” All in all, “it feels like a campus full of people who are ambitious, but also real and down-to-earth.”

Routines at UD are “fast-paced and collaborative, with students spending their days in classes, labs, research, and club activities, and their free time studying with friends, attending campus events, going to the gym, or exploring Main Street.” For many, clubs anchor their busy day, giving students a chance to expand on their academic interests and socialize, as with “the University of Delaware’s Sustainability Committee, where I engage with faculty and graduate students and construct plans to improve campus sustainability practices” or Caesura, UD’S literary magazine, where one can “connect with other students inside and outside of the English department.” Sports also give UD students the chance to mingle, and “Spikeball, volleyball (on the sand courts), soccer, [and] football” are popular intramurals. Esports are also on the rise: “It is such an up-and-coming ‘sport,’ and I’m glad to see UD encouraging students to play.” Students looking to cut loose love the “extremely strong Greek life presence” on campus and say the campus feels like “a mix of intellectually well-behaved students, and a mix of energetic ‘party animals.’” Overall, students agree: “There is no shortage of fun here.”

According to undergrads, the Career Center at UD is “extremely helpful,” with the university providing students with ample “opportunities to gain experience to be applied to their future careers.” With robust resource offerings, the department aims to “help students take action and be prepared to make the most of both planned and unplanned experiences to ensure true success.” Moreover, career services remain fully accessible to students and alumni at all times. With extensive on-site tools for resume and cover letter building, interview prep, networking, and more, the Career Center rounds out their programming with opportunities to interact with alumni and learn about potential employers through webinars. UD’s Career Acceleration Network provides a platform where students and alumni can send messages, schedule virtual meetings, and connect with potential employees. One student’s takeaway is that you’ll be “learning more than you could ever imagine about your future career path.”