Washington & Lee University
Reviews

W& L Very Unique

The close relationship between the professors and students is legendary. The honor code is serious and permeates every facet of campus life in a hugely positive way. The campus itself is arguably one of the most beautiful in America. The food is nearly all grown locally and is usually delicious. The food service employees are all W&L employees (most all are long time employees due to the excellent benefits of working for the University) and not some disinterested food service VENDOR. I cannot imagine spending my college years anywhere but the Valley of the Generals....

Weather

4 distinct and beautiful seasons in the beautiful Shenandoah Mountains

Computers

Internet access all over campus. Library open all day and staffed with students to assist all computer/smart phone/iPad set ups and problem solving. Computers available for any student that does not have one.

Speaking Tradition

W&L has a rich history and some unique customs such as the speaking tradition. It is not mandated but encouraged that if you pass another student you acknowledge them will a greeting or even a nod. In between classes it might not be as easy to stay true to the speaking tradition but there is definitely a friendliness to W&L that is unique to the school and its so nice to receive a hello walking across campus

Mild and Beautiful

The weather in Lexingotn is great. Falls are warm and last for a long time. Winters are not harsh at all. Spring is the best.

Fall and Spring in Virginia Are Beautiful

Fall and Spring in Virginia are beautiful, it can snow and get pretty bad in January/February months but it is worth it, almost everyone loves the weather.

Girls

Average for the most part when compared to a southern state school and for many people their high schools, but you have to consider that the class size is small so most guys actually have a good chance of hooking up with/dating a pretty attractive girl.

Meh

Freshmen have to walk 15 minutes to get to their cars which poses a problem for first-years. Upperclassmen have it better but not great. The parking deck is a decent distance from the main campus classrooms, but nothing too ridiculous.

Small Classes, Many Choices

The small classes are nice because if you have a question, it will be answered and also it forces students to actually pay attention and learn. I came in looking to major in econ and so far my experience with the business school has been phenomenal.

Depends...

Housing here is pretty good, but it depends a lot on who you are and where you live. If you're a huge rager and love to party and don't mind lots of noise at 2 am when you're trying to sleep, then Graham-Lee's is great. However, if you enjoy sleeping and like a more chill (not boring) environment, Davis is definitely the place for you. Gaines is not "anti-social" but its definitely a different environment than the rest of the halls. Its a very quiet place, but it does have AC, so if that's what you want then go for it. I live in GL but I spend the vast majority of my time in Davis and Gilliam. It's all about what you like here, but rest assured, there is a place for you.

An Honor System That Works

The school values its student administered honor system very highly. If you choose to abide by the rules, do not lie, cheat, or steal, then you will be perfectly fine. The honor code will ultimately give you more freedom. If you fail to uphold these standards, you will no longer attend the university. There are no second chances for honor violations. With that being said, the school is very lenient with social freedoms. As long as you do not lie, cheat, or steal in regards to the social life, the school is very tolerant of the heavily Greek system.

Good Parking

If you have a visitor for a weekend, all you need to do is go to security, get a visiting pass (for free) and they can park wherever they'd like. As for students, first-years pay for parking but after freshman year, it's free.

Diversity?

W&L also known as White and Loaded. Enough said. But if you're looking for diversity beyond the color of someone's skin, W&L is definitely home to many people from many different backgrounds and locations. It has a great student body!

The Entire World

Different than anywhere else. Greek life here is what eating clubs are to Princeton. If you a guy, you will get into a fraternity; it only depends on which fraternity. It's the same thing with girls. Most events here revolve around fraternities

Basically Greece

The Greek scene is the only social scene. That is perfectly acceptable, because the Greek organizations do a superb job with running the night life. There is something happening about 6 nights a week, and on big nights frequently four very different parties, anywhere from out in the country to in the frat house basements

Not Much.

The weather in the Shenandoah is usually mild, and tends toward and dry in the late fall through spring.

Financial Aid Is EXCELLENT

Opportunities abound for scholarships and grants. Financial aid in general is also great - I have received tons of assistance. If you deserve to be at this school but think you can't afford it, the financial aid department WILL help you out.

Excellent Facilities

The commons are beautiful, convenient, luxurious, and have everything you need. The library was recently renovated and is a great place to hang out and study. Classroom buildings are good and the older ones are in the process of renovation. The gym is nice, but the fitness center is a bit small and gets overcrowded at times. Overall, the campus is extremely beautiful, and they go to great lengths around here to keep it that way. They do a stellar job - definitely one of the most beautiful campuses you will ever visit.

There's Something for Everybody

Like any town in America, you have your good and your bad. For the most part, off-campus housing is easy to find and relatively nice (unless you live in one of the Greek associated houses). Safety is definitely not a problem overall. Most people leave their house/apartment unlocked.

Awful Parking

Freshmen parking is horrendous as you must park in a lot one mile from the dorms. You cannot park in town or else the town will tow your car. Sophomore year, you park at the frats or srats with much more convenient access to your car.

Freshmen can bring cars, but the...

Freshmen can bring cars, but the parking lot is very far away. Otherwise, parking is scarce.

There are no real bars or clubs....

There are no real bars or clubs. Every party here is a fraternity party, making drinks very available and very free. If you really are a bar person, and want to find one, you should not come to W&L.

Transportation at W&L is the...

Transportation at W&L is the worst. Traveler is actually useful at night, three times a week, from 10-2...but besides that? I don't think so. An all-night cab company would make millions here.

Parking is a bit tough. Freshman...

Parking is a bit tough. Freshman can bring a car, but the freshman lot is very far away.

Town is within walking distance,...

Town is within walking distance, so it's not a problem. Getting to Wal-Mart or Kroger is harder, but most students have cars, and now the university offers a weekend shuttle to Wal-Mart.