What should I consider about Loyola Marymount University's rating?

I've been looking into Loyola Marymount University and wonder about its overall ratings from students and alumni. Are there any standout aspects or concerns I should be aware of before applying? I want to make an informed choice!

Loyola Marymount University (LMU) has generally strong ratings, especially for its commitment to service and social justice, its small class sizes, and its engaging professors. It's particularly worth noting that there's a strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching, which can result in more personalized attention and guidance.

In terms of student life, there's a range of extracurricular activities, and the university is known for facilitating a fairly active social scene. The campus itself is often described as beautiful, with great views as it's located on a bluff overlooking Marina del Rey and Playa Vista, and is close to the vibrant city of Los Angeles.

Academically, some standout programs at LMU include Animation, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Film & Television Studies. If you're interested in these specific areas, you may particularly value attending LMU. That being said, all its programs provide solid curriculums.

As for potential concerns, be aware that the cost of attendance is on the higher side. However, the university does offer some level of financial aid – for instance, about 66% of full-time undergraduates receive some kind of need-based financial aid.

Also, it's a Jesuit university, meaning there’s an underlying Catholic ethos. If you're someone who's looking for a secular university experience, this may be somewhat of a concern. Despite this, LMU is generally considered quite inclusive and accepting, with students from diverse religious and non-religious backgrounds.

Lastly, since it's a mid-sized private institution, you may not have the kind of anonymity or breadth and depth of course offerings that you would find at a large public university. Still, many students appreciate the medium-sized community and more personal atmosphere.

In sum, these ratings and impressions vary from person to person, and it'd be best to set up a virtual tour for yourself, meeting the university students and faculty virtually, and asking them about their experiences. This would ensure you have a holistic picture before making your decision.