William and Mary - what's the campus vibe?

I'm looking at William & Mary for college, but I'm curious about the campus environment. What is the vibe like, and are there any cool things to know about it?

Sure, let's talk about the campus environment at William & Mary!

The campus, located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, is considered to be quite beautiful. It blends the old and the new quite skillfully, giving the campus a unique and beautiful aesthetic. Students often speak about how the stunning campus, with its brick buildings draped in ivy, creates an academic atmosphere that is both vibrant and welcoming.

As for the campus vibe, it's generally considered to be a warm and friendly environment. Being a public research university, there’s a strong focus on academics, and students are intellectually curious. Yet, there's also a strong sense of community and student involvement. Many students participate in campus activities, clubs, sports, or Greek life. The result is a balance between serious study and social engagement, creating a collegial atmosphere where students feel both challenged and supported.

An interesting aspect of William & Mary is its strong sense of tradition. As the second-oldest college in the U.S., it's not surprising that there are numerous long-standing traditions. One of them is the Yule Log Ceremony which takes place during the holiday season, where students throw ceremonial sprigs of holly into a fire for good luck.

And while you're on campus, don't forget to roam across the Sunken Garden, a large open grass field that's a notable fixture of campus life and a great place for studying, hanging out with friends, or even picnics!

Finally, remember that Williamsburg is full of historic sites, restaurants, festivals, and cultural activities, giving students plenty of ways to enjoy their time away from their studies. It’s also close to both the beach and the mountains, providing a multitude of outdoor activities for the adventurous ones.

It's no wonder many students say that William & Mary has a distinctive identity– a small and intimate community feel within a medium-sized institution, rich with tradition and rigorous academics. Hopefully, this gives you an understanding of the campus vibe!