College of William & Mary
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Though William & Mary tends to get a lot of flack for being academically demanding and difficult, students have nothing but praise for its committed professors, relatively small class sizes, and diverse opportunities regarding academic majors. Depending on the type of class (introductory-level courses tend to attract many students), class size can vary, though most classes tend to accommodate about 30 students. Professors also tend to become very involved with their students and provide various means of easy communication between teacher and student. Though, unfortunately, there are some professors that are relatively cut-and-dry, most professors that students encounter are very knowledgeable and passionate, which makes for an inspiring and positive classroom experience at William & Mary. In this same vein, the small class sizes make group work and collaborating with fellow students exceedingly possible. 

While most students ascertain that some majors are less demanding than others, all students agree that William & Mary is very demanding academically, and that regardless of the class, it is important to understand how to allot enough time toward each subject. The workload has been described as "enormous", and the grading has been heralded as somewhat severe, but as long as you put forth the work and communicate with a professor when you have difficulty with the curriculum, your grades should reflect the effort made. Also, through the career center and well-rounded and experienced professors, students can get well acquainted with internships and programs that help lead them into the workforce. With dedicated professors, small class sizes, and top-ranked academic programs, William & Mary academics are essential to success, even if the workload and hard grading can become overwhelming at times.

William & Mary Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at College of William & Mary

bmwood

Anthropology and Archaeology '13

4.2

A-

Being an Anthropology Major

As far as getting into courses, some of the required Anthropology classes are extremely limited. However, the professors are excellent and very willing to work with students. Every professor has at least one book published (along with major research) and is very passionate about both their area of study and helping undergrads find their way. Get to know the professors, they have a LOT of connections (and they all write pretty awesome recommendations).

Apr 09, 2012

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Academics at College of William & Mary

arriandanne

History '14

4.6

A

Earl Greg Swem Library

Studying at William and Mary is strongly emphasized. Everyone pushes themselves to work hard and get good grades. Those who go above and beyond are highly respected. We pride ourselves on our studying habits and our willingness to work hard to learn. We like to feel challenged. Our library, Earl Greg Swem Library, staff bends over backwards in order to help us to research whatever we need. The professors are always willing to help; just visit them during their office hours. The amount of workload depends on the professor and the course itself. Registration for classes can be a hassle; it becomes a campus wide event as each grade competes within its own class on certain days to get into the classes. For example, the seniors get top priority and have their registration first; they will compete with each other to get their own classes.

Mar 04, 2012

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Academics at College of William & Mary

knbrevard

Psychology & Counseling '15

3.8

B+

Psychology Major

It is not too difficult. Advisors are helpful and getting research opportunities are fairly easy.

Mar 04, 2012

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