My Journey to the University of Vermont: Choosing UVM as an Out-of-State Student

It was not always so straightforward. As an individual who did not attend a university straight from high school but worked from the age of 16, my path to University of Vermont (UVM) was quite unique. Join me as I dive into my reasons for choosing UVM as an out-of-state student and reflect on my experiences over the years.

Choosing UVM: A Unique Perspective

The decision to attend UVM as an out-of-state student was influenced by several factors. Firstly, I appreciated the diverse student body, where half of the students come from outside the state. Additionally, the beautiful campus and accessible professors played a significant role in my choice. These elements added to UVM's charm and created a welcoming environment for me as a student.

Note: This was back in my younger years, over 65 years ago. My experience has certainly changed since then.

A detour to VPI and a transfer to UVM

Back then, my goal was to study Agricultural Economics. After being denied acceptance at UVM, my second choice, Virginia Polytechnic Institute (now Virginia Tech), became my initial college. However, I wasn't content with the program, and I decided to make a transfer to UVM after my freshman year. My friends at UVM had convinced me to join them, and they were studying in a program that aligned with my interests. Though I eventually realized that my major didn't quite work out as planned, UVM provided me with an excellent education.

My visit to UVM a couple of years ago reinforced my positive views. The school remains excellent, offering a strong academic program in a wonderful location. However, the climate has become a factor as it gets colder, and I noticed that the political climate has shifted, leaning more towards liberalism. Despite these changes, I still believe that UVM is a top choice for students seeking a quality education in the northeastern United States.

Reflections on my Academic Experience

My parents did not attend college, and my older sister set the path by enrolling at UVM. I visited the campus and fell in love with it, which led to my decision to attend. Burlington, the city where UVM is situated, is renowned for its small-town charm and cultural attractions. I received a solid education and have been frequenting Vermont since my studies. I particularly enjoyed the skiing during my first semester as a freshman, where our "gym class" involved skiing in the winter or exploring neighborhood bars during the snowy weather. The drinking age was just 18, a delightful experience for young adults in a gym class setting.

While I don't frequently hear from fellow alumni who were there during my time, my experiences were generally positive. The University of Vermont provided me with both knowledge and memories that have stayed with me throughout the years.

Keywords: University of Vermont, out-of-state student, academic experience