How does the University of Nevada, Reno compare?

I've heard both good and bad things about the University of Nevada, Reno. What is the campus culture like? Are there strong academic and extracurricular opportunities for students there?

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) indeed has its unique aspects in terms of campus culture, academics, and extracurriculars.

Starting with the campus culture, UNR is known for a friendly and close-knit community atmosphere. Being a mid-sized university (roughly 18,000 undergraduates), it presents opportunities for students to create their niche, and develop strong ties with their peers. The campus is located in the city of Reno, which means there's plenty to see and do - from outdoor activities like hiking or skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains, to experiencing the local arts and food scene.

Moving on to academics, UNR offers a wide range of programs, from liberal arts to engineering and business. Specific programs at UNR like their Engineering, Business, and Journalism programs are known to be quite strong. You'll often find smaller class sizes which allow more personalized attention from professors, which many students appreciate.

In terms of extracurricular opportunities, yes, there are many. Engaging in extracurricular activities is a big part of the culture at UNR, with over 200 clubs and organizations on campus for students to get involved in. These range from special interest clubs, community service organizations, to sports clubs. Greek Life is fairly prominent at UNR as well, for those who may be interested.

In essence, the University of Nevada, Reno offers a solid combination of academic opportunities and fun extracurriculars within a friendly, community-oriented campus culture. As always, it's best to visit if possible (either in-person or virtually), speak with current students or alumni, and see if it feels like a good fit for you!