University of Virginia - Local Atmosphere

College Prowler Take

Charlottesville is surrounded by the beautiful hills and mountains of the Blue Ridge, which alone have much to offer—from hiking and picnicking, to a simple stroll along Skyline Drive. There are plenty of lakes and ponds just outside of town where students like to lay out and cool off in the summer and spring. The real cultural center of Charlottesville is mainly in and around the Downtown Mall, where there are many art galleries, music clubs, bookstores, and theaters. There is a great artistic tradition in Charlottesville. Many writers, musicians, and artists reside and work in and around the town, which no doubt inspires them. Despite all there is to do and see in Charlottesville, many students neglect to recognize the town’s rich culture and numerous opportunities. UVA students sometimes arrogantly forget that they are in the greater Charlottesville community and get too wrapped up in being a part of the University. As a result, there seems to be quite a bit of tension between students and locals. The University certainly makes up a large part of Charlottesville, and many students take this as an excuse not to explore the area.

The town remains vibrant and intellectual, but also laid-back. Charlottesville has a unique feel to it. It is the ultimate small city and complements UVA perfectly. It is simultaneously artsy and preppy, wild and laid back. It has the ability to keep you captivated and engaged for all four years, but if you ever get bored and want a little adventure, Washington D.C., is only a two-hour drive away.

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Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

I love Charlottesville; it’s a... I love Charlottesville; it’s a real college town. JMU and Virginia Tech kids visit a lot. The downtown area is really cute and fun, and there is decent shopping. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Charlottesville is a cute little... Charlottesville is a cute little town that’s dominated by the University. There’s really nothing to avoid, and there’s a fair amount of stuff to visit, like Monticello and the mountains. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

It’s a great social scene.... It’s a great social scene. Everyone is always finding fun new things to do in Charlottesville. There are outdoor activities at your fingertips, and you can always run to the mall if you are desperate for the newest thing at Express. People are always going out, making new friends, and visiting pubs on the Corner. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

Charlottesville is nice. The... Charlottesville is nice. The mountains are nearby, and it’s a liberal town. It’s close to DC, so internships are not far off. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Anonymous says:

From musical UVA concerts, to... From musical UVA concerts, to professional singers, to famous speakers, to going to downtown Charlottesville, movies, ice-skating, and tons of restaurants; there is never a lack of things to do. 12345 Local Atmosphere Report

Facts

Did You Know?

5 Fun Facts about Charlottesville:
• Charlottesville is the home of the Dave Matthews Band—both where they started and where they live now (when they’re not out on tour).
• The Virginia Film Festival comes to Charlottesville every October and is hosted by the University, bringing with it famous actors, directors, producers, and screenwriters. In recent years, Sigourney Weaver, Anthony Hopkins, Nicolas Cage, Roger Ebert, and Sissy Spacek have all taken part in the festival.
• During the summer months, there is a Farmer’s Market that takes place every Saturday morning right next to the Downtown Mall.
• Charlottesville was named "#1 Small City in the South" by Money magazine.
• Monticello, the hilltop home of Thomas Jefferson, is not only known for its amazing architecture, but also for the former president’s many showcased inventions.

Famous People from Charlottesville:
Katie Couric
John Grisham
Thomas Jefferson
Jessica Lange
Dave Matthews (and his band)
Sam Shepherd
Sissy Spacek
Sparky's Flaw

Local Slang:
C-ville – the town of Charlottesville
The Grounds – the UVA campus
Legit – as in, "Brah, those wayfarers are legit!"
Natty – Natural Light Beer; in context, "Dude, beer me a Natty"
NoVa – Northern Virginia
Srat – sorority
Townies – the sometimes sketchy Charlottesville locals who do not go to UVA

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