The University of Montana—Missoula (UM)

At the base of Mount Sentinel and along the banks of the Clark Fork River, the natural setting of the University of Montana-Missoula reflects its commitment to "environmental sustainability...and social justice." With over 175 academic programs to choose from, students rave about standout departments like wildlife biology, forestry, physical therapy, and forensic anthropology. The beautiful campus, wide range of academic offerings, and surrounding city of Missoula combine to make the University of Montana "a great place to live, work, and study." Professors at this public research university are described as "helpful, engaging, and accessible" and "very knowledgeable about what they are teaching." This fosters a learning environment that is "always interesting and inviting." As one student shares, "Math and science has never come easy for me, and my professors have taught in a way I completely understand the material." Students appreciate that they are never treated like "just a number" and are encouraged to be "creative thinkers and engaged citizens." As one student elaborates, "I truly appreciate all the effort that is put forward to help students succeed and prepare for the next steps in their life."

In general, students who attend the University of Montana are "pretty laid-back and easygoing." They are also very supportive of one another. As one student notes, "If you're lost or need to ask a question, you can ask anyone, and they're willing to [help]." Although many students hail from Montana, students note that the school's "increasing diversity efforts have begun to show" within recent years. Most people at U of M are "accepting, friendly, and very involved in college and community life." In addition, the university's strong focus on the environment attracts many "outdoorsy" types and "future biologists" who want to make a difference. Overall, students say the U of M community is welcoming and accepting. As one student put it, "People here do not seem to judge others or hold stereotypes against each other." Another student adds, "I feel like I've stepped into a melting pot of all beliefs and ideals. You can be yourself and never be looked down on for that at this school."

Students who love the great outdoors will appreciate the University of Montana's amazing location. One undergrad says, "Western Montana is a divine place for hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, snowshoeing, swimming, huckleberry picking, going to hot springs, mushroom picking, antler collecting, and just being immersed in nature." For those looking for an even greater adrenaline rush, there's also "skiing and skydiving, hang gliding and parasailing, mountain climbing and repelling, [and] caving and biking." On campus, "when it's not snowing in the fall or spring, you can find people playing Frisbee, walking their dogs, catching footballs, and even playing with lightsabers." When hunger strikes, U of M has 21 dining venues to choose from. They even have their own garden where they grow thousands of pounds of fresh produce each year and maintain an apiary for honeybees, underscoring U of M's focus on sustainability. The campus boasts great facilities, including a 25-yard competition pool, a golf course, and a fitness and recreation center with a climbing wall. Students report that "football is really big here," and during the season, the games are always packed with excited fans. Additionally, there are "many music concerts and dance parties" to attend. Missoula is known for its outdoor recreation, but students also enjoy exploring the city for its shopping, dining, outdoor food trucks, and theater. One student says that one of the best things about U of M is "there is always something to do no matter what your interests are and great people to do them with."