Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Date: Jul 24 2014
Major: Physics (This Major's Salary over time)
WPI is a great university for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) fields who want an intensive, project based undergraduate experience designed to prepare you to tackle real world challenges. Nearly all students at WPI are being trained as scientists, engineers, or mathematicians; therefore, though there are many wonderful humanities & arts and social science courses, the primary focus of the university seems to be creating future STEM leaders.

WPI utilizes a 4-term system, rather than the traditional 2-semester system found at many universities. As a result, the academics are extremely fast paced, with students taking 3 (or sometimes 4) courses every 7 weeks for a minimum of 12 courses a year. Though the classes only last 7 weeks, you often still cover the amount of material typically incorporated into a semester long version of the course at other universities. The 4-term system gives students the opportunities to do significant project work, with many students taking 1 term during their junior and/or senior years to do intensive project/research work - in many cases overseas.

Additionally, WPI is a relatively small, tight-knit community. Though you may not know every student on campus, you will definitely recognize many of the faces you pass on your way to classes, extracurriculars, etc. In addition, if you are a bit of a geek/nerd you will find the university atmosphere to be very welcoming. For example, during a popular event known as 'geek week' there are activities such as Rubik's cube competitions and Big Bang Theory trivia night which are extremely well liked among the student population. Additionally, many students are involved in athletics and Greek life.