Brown University—Worth the hype?

I've been hearing a lot about Brown University lately and I'm interested in learning more about it. What are some notable aspects of the school, academically or otherwise? Any standout programs or specific things I should know about? Thanks for the help, guys!

Hey there! Brown University is definitely a unique institution, so it's understandable why it's been on your radar. I'll provide some notable aspects about Brown that stand out among other universities.

1. Open Curriculum: Brown is well known for its open curriculum, which means you have the freedom to design your own academic path. There are no core/general education requirements, so you can choose your courses based on your interests, rather than following a predetermined list of courses. This fosters experimentation and exploration while also allowing you to focus on what truly matters to you.

2. S/NC Grading Option: Brown offers a Satisfactory/No Credit (S/NC) grading option, which allows you to take classes without worrying about letter grades. This is especially helpful if you want to try out a class in an unfamiliar area without stressing about your GPA. You can decide whether to change a class to S/NC up to the seventh week into the semester, giving you ample time to weigh your options.

3. Interdisciplinary Focus: Brown emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, which encourages you to combine different fields and find connections between them. This approach gives you a more comprehensive understanding of how various disciplines work together and can result in unique academic paths.

4. Research Opportunities: Brown excels in offering undergraduate research opportunities, with many students engaging in research in various disciplines, from humanities to natural sciences. There are summer research programs like UTRA (Undergraduate Teaching and Research Awards) which provide funding and support for students to conduct independent projects.

5. Happy Students: Brown has a reputation for having happy, collaborative students. The environment is often described as relaxed yet intellectually stimulating, with students who support and learn from each other.

6. PLME Program: The Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) is a standout program at Brown, serving as an eight-year combined undergraduate and medical school program. This program allows a select group of students to have guaranteed admission to Brown's prestigious Alpert Medical School upon matriculation, without needing to take the MCAT.

7. Strong Arts Scene: Brown has a thriving arts community, with a well-regarded theatre program (Brown/Trinity Rep MFA) and the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts, a modern facility that houses various arts groups on campus.

These are just a few aspects of Brown University that make it an exciting and exceptional place to study. Of course, it's essential to visit (in person or virtually) and explore further to see if it's the right fit for you and your interests. Good luck!