Any thoughts on universities near Cleveland?

I'm starting to look for colleges and I've got my eye on a couple near Cleveland. Can anyone who's familiar with the area give me some insight? Anything you wish you'd known before you started - academic support, facilities, campus life, safety, etc.?

Sure, there are many great universities in and around Cleveland.

Case Western Reserve University is likely the most well-known. It's a private institution that is particularly strong in fields like engineering, nursing, and business. Students at Case Western have ample access to research opportunities and internships. As a mid-sized university, it offers students a balance between a personalized academic experience and a diverse student body. Its urban campus is conveniently located near Cleveland's cultural hub, University Circle.

Cleveland State University is another great option, especially if you're looking for more of a public university experience. It boasts strengths in areas like business, nursing, and engineering as well. CSU also offers the advantages of an urban campus, with easy access to downtown Cleveland.

John Carroll University, a Jesuit university in University Heights (suburb of Cleveland), offers a strong liberal arts foundation and has strong programs in fields like business and education. And for those looking for a smaller college feel, Baldwin Wallace University provides a robust liberal arts education with notable programs in music and musical theater.

In terms of campus life, each of these universities has something different to offer. From the urban energy of Case Western and Cleveland State to the close-knit communities at John Carroll and Baldwin Wallace, there's really something for everyone.

Safety, of course, is an important concern no matter where you go to school. All of these schools have campus security and emergency protocols in place, and communities that look out for each other. As urban campuses, Case Western and Cleveland State do have occasional issues related to city living, but many students feel sufficiently safe with the protective measures put in place by the schools.

Finally, it's worth noting that Cleveland is home to a number of cultural and recreational attractions, which undergraduates at all these universities can enjoy. The city offers art museums, music venues, sports arenas, and plenty of parks and nature reserves.

One tip would be to visit the campuses if you can. While virtual tours and photos can give you an idea of what a college is like, there’s nothing quite like stepping foot on the campus to truly get a feel for the atmosphere and the community. And even though all of these schools are located in Cleveland, their overall campus vibe can still differ significantly.

Another thing to remember is to check the universities' specific resources for academic support. Don't just assume what they provide. For example, check if they offer free tutoring, writing centers, mental health resources, etc. And get a feel for their career services - internships, job placement rates after graduation, and alumni network can all play a big part in your post-graduation success.

Overall, there are a number of strong options in and around Cleveland, and finding the right fit will largely depend on your specific academic interests and personal preferences. As you build your college list, you may find college search engines useful, like CollegeVine's, which allows you to filter schools based on a range of factors, including not just location, but also majors offered, student/faculty ratio, admissions requirements, and so on.

This tool can help you build a list of schools that are sure to be a good all-around fit for you. You can access the search engine here: https://www.collegevine.com/schools/hub

Good luck with your college search!