The quality and enthusiasm of the professors who care about their students is what attracts and retains students who could have gone to larger and more prestigious schools. Greenville is quite charming and has such good local food that most skeptics love the area, or at least ECU, by the time they graduate. Although the campus police are friendly, ECU is quite strict, perhaps in an effort to downplay the “party school” reputation. The strictness, however, contributes to student safety and helps reduce the drug presence on campus. Alcohol is a problem for some students, and the clubs are tempting, but the counseling center can help students with their problems. ECU’s computer resources are excellent, and the athletic facilities are better than the teams’ records. ECU’s most enjoyable facilities are the green areas, especially because the weather here is so pleasant—crazy, but pleasant.
Whether living on or off campus, students should join organizations to maximize their college involvement and build leadership experience for their resume. With ECU’s diverse student population, new students can easily find an organization, Greek or non-Greek, that is for them. ECU is reputed to have one of the highest concentrations of pretty girls anywhere, and the guys are good-looking overall, too. The Southern hospitality creates a welcoming social atmosphere. ECU has been through sports losses and administrative shake-ups in the past, but some of the political damage seems to be getting straightened out. So, as usual, ECU students are optimistic. They will continue to be easy-going, yet serious and balanced, fun-loving learners.