VCU becomes first round draft pick for freshmen

Which factors are important to you when choosing a university?

Cost? Location? Diversity? Popularity?

 

As an institution that was once looked at as a second choice for students, Virginia Commonwealth University is now the largest in the state, with a current enrollment of more than 31,000 students.

 

Pamela Lepley, a university spokesperson says more students are seeking VCU than ever. “When you have 17,000 freshman applications for less than 4,000 spots… we are a destination institution, not a back-up institution,” said Lepley.

 

Cynthia Schmidt, director of university marketing, agrees and adds that positive publicity has helped VCU grow in popularity. “I would be crazy if I don’t mention the fact that out successful basketball team has been a huge benefit when it comes to spreading name recognition,” said Schmidt.

VCU’s University College is a program that offers resources to help freshmen survive their first year. But ultimately, students have their own reasons for coming.

Tanner Braaten, a senior from Springfield, Va. said that VCU was the only school he applied to. “I sort of figured I would have gotten in,” said Braaten.

Channelle Green, a senior from Harlem, NY said that she decided to come to VCU because she had family and friends in the Richmond area.

Brandon Alexander, a sophomore from Northern Virginia said that his reason for coming to VCU was the diversity.

DIrector of VCU’s Brandcenter, Rick Boyko says that with so many different reasons for students attending, applications are up. “We have the school of the arts and I think that’s pretty well known,” said Boyko. “The MCV campus… has great recognition.”

Schmidt says there’s one main thing factor that is sure to keep students applying. “We’ll never be a school that’s so restrictive in our admissions policy to tune out a lot of people because we really believe in giving students opportunity,” said Schmidt.