Every time I visit the University of Vermont I find even more to like about this most intimate-feeling of flagship state schools. Burlington is a great college town—not too big to overwhelm its scenic New England charm, but not so cozy that it lacks a vibrant arts culture and a robust outdoor-activity culture.
Like the city surrounding it, the campus, with around 10,000 undergrads, is a great size—big enough to feel like an energetic hive of activity, but small enough to feel manageable and personal. The student center is always busy, its study spots and places to socialize filled, with a sense of enthusiasm in the air. (My favorite spot is the Dairy Bar, where the student-run farm peddles its wares.)
There is no shortage of things to do on campus: club sports, arts, political and diversity organizations, and a substantial Greek life. Students appear pretty down to earth, and most seem very happy with the school. Animal Science is a popular major, as UVM is a land grant institution, and many follow this major into the graduate Veterinary program. Other popular majors are business, psychology, environmental science and nursing. All the liberal arts are strong, as is business.