University of Denver (DU)

Greetings From the Campus Of…. University of Denver (DU)

(originally written 4/17/09 during a spring snow storm) It was 70 degrees all week, then rainy and cool yesterday, and now a snowstorm! The snow just makes the campus even more beautiful. The DU campus is in an ideal location: eight miles south of Denver in a residential area and one hour from the ski slopes. The campus buildings are a mix of historical and modern, evoking that “university” feel.

Students seem genuinely happy to be here. Actually, they don’t want to leave. More than one senior at the student information session lamented their upcoming graduation. The students seem to be a very involved, and also a very friendly bunch. Each one listed a vast number of extracurricular and service activities. Many were a part of the Pioneer Leadership Program, a program that requires a separate application and results in a minor in Leadership Studies. All had studied abroad, as 74% of the students do. The university heavily advocates the experience and subsidizes any programs more costly than DU tuition. Most of the student panel was part of the Alpine Club, the most popular club on campus, which organizes outdoor activities, including trips to the nearby mountains.

The students described DU as a “work hard, play hard” kind of school. The school is selective with an average GPA of 3.7 and the SAT mid-range from 1120-1320. Business majors are quite popular and opportunities for internships in Denver are plenty and easily accessible from the on-campus light rail stop. The Korbell School of International Studies is also well-respected with many popular majors. The Lamont School of Music has a world-class facility and many classes are open to non-music majors. The six-week interterm winter break also provides opportunities for internships or service learning classes, some international.

DU is not a place for students looking for a big sports school. While their Division I, National Championship Hockey team replaces the void of a football team, as does their National Championship Ski Team, students otherwise need to create their own school spirit. Most students do so by living on or near campus in abundant housing options and becoming very involved.

The student course load seems manageable with plenty of time for a well-balanced college experience. Most students graduate in 4 years, even if they wish they could stay longer.

Please visit my photo album at http://picasaweb.google.com/maritasurace/UniversityOfDenverDU#

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