Tennessee Technological University (Tech)

Tennessee Technological University, commonly known as "Tennessee Tech" or "TTU," is widely considered by many students to be "the best engineering school in the state." "It's the same degree that you can get anywhere else [and] for a cheaper cost." "It's got a great nursing program." The education program is "amazing," and "they offer quite a lot for a reasonable tuition." One student informs us that "this school pushes each student to the next level and is actually preparing you for [the] future." The school's professors, many of whom "are graduates from TTU," "offer the opportunity to ask questions and allow discussion in their classes." A handful of students have noted that "some of the professors need to be fired" while others "need raises," but "on the flip side, the professors who care are amazing and make classes very interesting." The faculty members who do receive high marks "have strong communication and technical skills" and "make themselves available outside of the classroom." However, those with below-average marks will often show "strong technical skills, but communication [and] teaching skills could see much improvement." The general consensus among TTU students is that "there is a good student-teacher ratio," and the faculty are for the most part "well experienced in their respective fields."

Tennessee Tech boasts "different varieties of students." One student tells us, "you have the religious types…you have the Greeks. You have the independents who just go to class and have a few core friends…and then a big chunk are students who live off campus and just do their own thing." But for the most part, students "don't think TTU is cliquey at all. It's very easy to find your niche on campus and in the community." The university's location in central Tennessee makes it "close to home" for many students, particularly commuter students who can "drive back and forth and also continue to work [a] part-time job."

Here at Tennessee Tech, one student says, "people tend to just hang out a lot." Located in the "wonderful college town" of Cookeville, which is just "an hour from Nashville," there are "a lot of activities in the area." "We have a lot of state parks within an hour's drive, and a lot of people go hiking, camping, and rock climbing on weekends. Canoeing and kayaking [are] also a big thing here." The school itself "is surrounded by so many awesome outdoor destinations," while the campus is "well maintained, safe, and easy to navigate. I don't know anyone who has trouble keeping [themselves] occupied on the weekends." "Some of the buildings [and] computer rooms could be updated," and "the wi-fi network could stand to be made stronger…in certain buildings." A few students have expressed concern that "school spirit is on the low end," while others have informed us that "everyone goes to football and basketball games," and if you're "not involved in that, we have a few clubs, such as the Environmental Club and dorm competitions." The area also offers a "bowling alley, laser tag, mini golf, and the movie theater." The Greek system plays a large role in campus life as well, and "almost everybody leaves for the weekend, except most Greeks." But for most students, both Greek and non, "life school can be fun if you put yourself out there. You have to get involved or life will be boring."