Kara is a current senior at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She is majoring in sociology, and specializes in American Literature tutoring, AP Psychology tutoring, and a number of other subjects. Below, she shares her experience at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Describe the campus setting and transportation options.
Kara: The campus is located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. Most students commute with their own vehicles or use public transportation. I use public transportation.
How available are the professors, academic advisors, and teaching assistants?
Kara: The professors, advisors, and teaching assistants are very helpful and courteous. Professors have designated office hours so that students can stop by without an appointment. They’re also prompt when replying to emails. TAs are usually contacted via email. The advising centers typically ask students to set up an appointment, but they allow walk-ins as well.
How would you describe the dorm life—rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students, etc.?
Kara: UNLV is a very sociable campus. There are plenty of dorms, organizations, and activities for students to take part in. There is a general dining hall for students with meal plans and a student union with popular restaurant chains.
Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? What did you study and why?
Kara: Students can select a major from a variety of disciplines. The school recently opened a medical school as well. The most popular major is hospitality. I chose to pursue sociology in order to gain community service work experience.
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?
Kara: UNLV has organizations to promote socialization, but it’s also a school that encourages a strong work ethic. Most students are very busy with class assignments, so prospective students should not expect a "party" atmosphere. Greek life plays a very small role on campus. Regardless, students and faculty foster a friendly, open community. When the semester begins and ends, the campus is filled with music and laughter. It’s a good balance between work and fun.
How helpful are the Career Center and other student support services?
Kara: I found these services to be very helpful. Writing centers, the Career Center, and other services are available to all students.
How are the various study areas, such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges?
Kara: Students frequent the library, student union, and dorms for study spaces. There are plenty of study spaces in all of the campus buildings.
Describe the surrounding town.
Kara: Las Vegas is a large, diverse city ideal for people seeking new experiences. You can find a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?
Kara: UNLV has a large student body. Class sizes depend on the course level, with 100-level courses averaging around 50 students and upper-division classes ranging anywhere from 10 to 30 students.
Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most.
Kara: One of my favorite professors was Dr. Ted Jelen. Sadly, he passed away in 2017, but I will never forget the impact he made on my college career. I took his class in my first semester. He encouraged his students to be independent learners, to bring their own perspectives to class assignments, and to engage in class discussions.
Check out Kara's tutoring profile.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.
