University of New Mexico (UNM)

The University of New Mexico, located in Albuquerque, is the state's flagship university. It offers students "academic excellence" at an affordable price, especially for in-state residents who qualify for the NM Lottery Scholarship, which covers seven semesters of tuition. UNM is an R1 research university, and some cite the numerous "research opportunities available" at UNM as one of its greatest strengths. Students can garner real-world experience since "oftentimes the research can be done with top-of-the-line equipment" at nearby Sandia National Labs, Los Alamos National Labs, or the Air Force Research Lab. Many students choose UNM for the quality and variety of its science programs, including Earth and planetary sciences, biology, and the premed and nursing programs. The university emphasizes that "there is something here for everyone" and offers "amazing opportunities to travel abroad" for those who want to expand their horizons. Regarding academics, students in the education and science programs praise UNM for providing "some of the best teachers" along with "tough classes." They also appreciate the academic support offered to them through "tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction for most courses." In class, students appreciate having "teachers who care" and are willing and able to "talk to and with you and not just at you." Students say that "it's very easy to come to instructors outside of class with questions." Overall, UNM prepares students for success with its strong academic programs and "very knowledgeable" professors who are "helpful [and] genuinely interested in your personal success."

There are all types of students at UNM, and as one undergrad notes, "You meet someone different every day." The community is very diverse and welcoming; as one student observes, "No one will ever feel ethnically alone since there are so many different kinds of people." Just "like any school, there are cliques...but that does not mean they do not interact with each other," and most "people get along regardless of origin." Overall, students appreciate that the university is "sensitive and very engaged with its diverse population of students." In fact, most students agree that "everyone brings something to the table" at UNM, which makes for a vibrant and interesting environment.

At UNM, many students agree that "college is more than going to class." The school embraces this idea by offering "hundreds of great student organizations." And with so many groups and clubs to choose from, students are sure to find something "that will fit." The Student Union Building is the heart of campus life, where "there is always something going on." From weekly movies to "opportunities for fun events" and meetings in the workspaces of the Lobo Lair, there's plenty to keep you entertained. The Greek community is active on campus and "makes up a lot of the senate and other extracurricular activities," with one student noting that any Greek-sponsored "activity has fun attached." Although UNM has a dry-campus policy, students say that "a lot of people drink, just like at any college," and there's "excellent nightlife" available off campus. Plus, being in the city means students have easy access to great bars, dining, theaters, live music, and eclectic shops along Central Avenue and downtown. Students also say that "hanging out at the Duck Pond is a great way to pass time between classes in warmer months," and in colder months, the lure of the mountains draws people off campus, as "during the winter season, there are numerous ski resorts and places to go snowboarding that are not far away." Athletics are another of the many "ways for everyone to get involved," and many say that "attending games is a must." With so many activities and events to choose from, it's no wonder "everyone seems to find their niche."