University of Virginia
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Most students agree that the professors at UVA are outstanding, qualified, brilliant, and passionate men and women. As expected, there are occasional complaints about class structure, material, and size, as well as some unfortunate cases of disinterested teachers. The quality and interest level of classes and professors vary throughout the different schools and departments at UVA. For the most part, students find that classes and professors in the College of Arts and Sciences (particularly the English, drama, history, and psychology departments) are more liberal and interesting. Some of the more technical, scientific courses and schools (biology or engineering, for example) can be a necessary burden, even for students specializing in those fields.

Although it can be difficult getting to know a professor in a lecture setting, taking smaller seminars gives you a much better opportunity to get close to professors. How well you get to know your professors largely depends on the size of your major and the initiative you take with them. Older students are often very helpful with class and professor recommendations, so use them as a resource to achieve a more fulfilling academic experience. Though the best professors tend to only teach upperclassmen, be patient. Learn from your TA in the meantime—even though it may be disappointing and frustrating at times. Remember that TAs are more accessible, younger, and often more enthusiastic about the classes they’re working with; you can use this to your advantage and get more out of your learning experience. In general, as long as you are interested in developing a relationship with some of your teachers, whether they be TAs or professors, you will no doubt excel academically at Virginia.

Virginia Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at University of Virginia

nolie219

'15

Philosophy Studies

N/A

Philosophy - Morality and Politics

The class is very interesting, the workload is not light, but extremely appropriate for the class. Also, the professor is very interactive.

Jan 24, 2012

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Academics at University of Virginia

aml9315

'15

English

4.6

A

Really Great So Far

I'm only a first year, but so far I'm impressed with the academics. I wouldn't advise anyone to take 1010 level classes unless he/she wants an easy A or B because they can be boring, but the higher level classes are great. All of my professors are wonderful and I feel like I'm learning a lot already. I can't wait to complete another 7 semesters at UVA!

Nov 30, 2011

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Academics at University of Virginia

lilyofthesea

'15

Environmental Engineering

N/A

Beauty School Drop-Out, Go Back to E-School...

E-School really isn't as tough as everyone makes it out to be. There is work, but if you read the textbook and pay attention in class you will learn the material and be on top of classes. Make sure you balance sleep, social, and study.

Tip: without sleep, study and social aren't as vibrant.

Make sure to get out at least once a week and do something fun: Take a hike through the forest (C-ville has an abundance of trails right at the edge of campus that go all around the city, I run them a couple times a week, or go to a concert or theater either on grounds or in town, or do something else that tickles your fancy, as long as it helps to de-stress you from the mental weight of school.

Professors are friendly! Talk to them! Have lunch with them! There's a program just for that, so take advantage of a free meal and get to know a professor better!

Nov 16, 2011

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