When it comes to choosing the right university to attend, it's more than just picking a place to earn a degree. Students are looking for a place that offers many resources, both inside and out of the classroom. Here at the University of Delaware, students have equal opportunities to grow in academics and their personal lives. So, I asked a few current students, “Why UD?”

Campus beauty

A main attraction for our campus is its overall beauty. Every spring, the trees on The Green bloom with cherry blossoms, and each fall, the trees are bursting with leaves of many colors, making it one of the most scenic college campuses. (UD even made No. 4 on Southern Living’s list of the most beautiful college campuses!)

“It is always a pleasure walking around campus in the springtime,” said junior kinesiology major Devyn Shapiro. “I love seeing the trees blossom and everyone out on The Green enjoying the sun when the weather is nice.” 

Academics and professional opportunities

UD offers more than 90 different majors and 105 different minors for students to choose from, allowing students to explore different options and take a path that really interests them. UD was also recently recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best graduate schools in the country with 24 of their programs ranking among the top in the nation. 

“The different programs and certifications that UD has to offer have been what made my entire experience so unique,” said junior management and marketing major Thomas Cardenas. “I’ve strengthened my resume by gaining knowledge in leadership and marketing. I’ve also had the opportunity to gain an entrepreneurial leadership certificate which has allowed me to see different leadership styles and how to bring people together for a common goal.” 

Location and convenience

UD prides itself on being in the middle of several major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York City and Washington, D.C. There are three different dining halls for students, one on North Campus and two located on Central Campus. Main Street runs right in the middle of Central and North Campus, offering many different restaurants, shops and convenience stores close to residence halls and off-campus housing. Everything is within walking distance and there are shuttles to take students around campus and the surrounding areas, so there is no need to have a car; but if you do drive, Christiana Mall and Fashion Center is a quick 10-minute trip away.

“I love being able to walk to everything that I need here on campus,” said junior biological sciences major Hannah McLamb. “It really makes it a lot easier and so much more convenient than having to drive to classes or to the student centers.”
 

Community culture

“One of the standout features of UD is its strong sense of community,” said first-year student and economics major Kate Janssen, a member of the UD field hockey team. “I am an international student and the campus is welcoming with students and faculty who genuinely care about each other’s success. As a student-athlete, the opportunity to balance academics with athletics is amazing.”

Most students on campus agree that they feel a sense of community and belonging, including junior marketing major Lauren Bermudez. 

“What really stood out to me about the University of Delaware was the energy on campus; it just felt like a place where I could really thrive,” said Bermudez. “Everyone here is super friendly and welcoming, and there’s a great balance between academics and social life. I’ve had so much fun being part of the community, and I’ve met some of my best friends here. It’s the kind of place that actually feels like home.”