Rachel earned her bachelor’s degree in history and international studies from Emory University. She specializes in government tutoring, test prep tutoring, and a number of other subjects. Below, she shares her experience at Emory University.
Describe the campus setting and transportation options.
Rachel: When I lived on campus, I liked that it was very close to Atlanta's downtown area and Buckhead. That said, I think it felt like a very suburban campus with large residential homes surrounding the campus. I felt very safe there, and I loved the beauty of the campus. Emory has its own bus system that is very convenient.
How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants?
Rachel: They are available during office hours, or you can arrange a time to talk with them if you cannot make office hours.
How would you describe the dorm life—rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students?
Rachel: I lived in the sorority lodges when I lived at Emory, so I had a very active living experience with my friends. We always had activities and events to attend together. The location of the sorority lodges is great to get to class on time—only a 15-minute walk. The dining options are great at the DUC and other locations on campus. I really enjoyed eating at Zaya's!
Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?
Rachel: The best support is given to the business school and pre-med majors. I studied history and international studies. I felt very supported by the history department itself, but Emory doesn't focus on supporting the liberal arts majors as much as they could. I found that disappointing during my time at Emory.
How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life?
Rachel: I didn't go to Emory as a freshman—I went to NYU. When I transferred, I had already joined my sorority, so I instantly had some great connections when I got to Emory.
How helpful are the Career Center and other student support services?
Rachel: The Career Center is really only helpful for business majors, economics majors, or pre-med majors.
How are the various study areas, such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges?
Rachel: The library is great, having been newly renovated last year. I loved studying there. The freshman dorms look to be very comfortable and spacious, and the Greek housing is also great for studying. Other campus housing varies.
Describe the surrounding town.
Rachel: Atlanta is a great place to get in touch with culture through museums, events, and all kinds of opportunities. However, Emory students don't leave campus as often as they could, especially during the freshman and sophomore years.
How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?
Rachel: The student body is around 4,000 on average. I was pleased with the small history and political science class sizes.
Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most.
Rachel: My most loved experience with my professors was when I was presenting my honors thesis to my committee. It was so much fun to present my work to professors who I admired, and I was really glad to hear their positive feedback!
Check out Rachel’s tutoring profile.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.
