College Mode’s College Spotlight: THE UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE

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IN A NUTSHELL

Location & History: The University of Delaware (UD) is a public research university located in Newark, Delaware. UD has a beautiful campus with a mix of historic and modern buildings and is known for its strong academic programs and research opportunities. The university was founded in 1743, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. As a result, there are several historic buildings on campus that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, such as Old College and Memorial Hall.

However, the university has also undergone significant growth and development in recent years, with many new buildings and facilities constructed to meet the needs of a modern university. For example, the Harker Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Laboratory and the Carpenter Sports Building are both state-of-the-art facilities that were completed in the 21st century.

ACADEMICS

UD has a diverse student body of over 24,000 undergraduate and graduate students from all 50 states and over 120 countries. The university offers over 300 degree programs across its seven colleges, including programs in the arts, sciences, engineering, business, education, and more.

Honors College

The Honors College at the University of Delaware is a selective program designed to challenge academically talented students and provide them with unique educational opportunities.

Admission to the Honors College is competitive and based on a holistic review of the applicant's academic record, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. Typically, students who are admitted to the Honors College have strong academic credentials, including a high school GPA of 3.8 or higher, an SAT score of 1360 or higher (or ACT score of 30 or higher), and a record of taking challenging coursework.

Once accepted, Honors College students take honors courses in a variety of disciplines, engage in undergraduate research, participate in leadership and service activities, and complete a capstone project. They also have access to unique resources, such as smaller classes, research funding, and priority registration.

The Honors College is a close-knit community that provides a supportive and challenging environment for its students. It offers opportunities for intellectual growth and personal development, as well as a chance to connect with like-minded peers and faculty.

Overall, the Honors College at the University of Delaware is a rigorous and rewarding program. While it is competitive to gain admission, students who are admitted have access to a wealth of resources and opportunities to enhance their undergraduate education.

Research & Study Abroad: One of UD's strengths is its commitment to undergraduate research. Students have opportunities to work with faculty on research projects in a wide range of fields, including health sciences, engineering, and the humanities. The university also has a strong study abroad program, with opportunities to study in more than 100 programs in 40 different countries. 

STUDENT LIFE

Campus Life: In addition to its academic offerings, UD has a vibrant campus life with over 400 student organizations and clubs, including Greek life, service organizations, academic clubs, and sports teams. 

Some of the clubs that are popular at UD:

  1. Student Government Association: The Student Government Association (SGA) is a student-run organization that represents the student body and advocates for student interests on campus.

  2. Greek Life: UD has a vibrant Greek Life community, with over 35 fraternities and sororities on campus.

  3. Club Sports: UD has over 40 club sports, including rugby, ultimate frisbee, equestrian and ice hockey.

  4. Service Organizations: UD has several service organizations, including Circle K International, Habitat for Humanity, and Blue Hen Ambassadors.

  5. Academic Clubs: UD has numerous academic clubs, including the Accounting Club, the Pre-Law Society, and the Biology Club.

  6. Cultural Organizations: UD has several cultural organizations, including the African Students Association, the Asian American Association, and the Latin American and Iberian Studies Program.

  7. Performing Arts: UD has several performing arts groups, including the Delaware Repertory Dance Company, the University of Delaware Symphony Orchestra, and the Drama Club.

ATHLETICS

The university has a strong athletic program with 21 varsity sports teams competing at the NCAA Division I level including football, baseball, basketball, and lacrosse. The athletic teams at UD are collectively known as the "Blue Hens."

UD has a proud history of athletic success, particularly in football and men's basketball. The football team has won six national championships and made 23 playoff appearances, while the men's basketball team has made five NCAA tournament appearances and won eight conference championships.

In addition to football and basketball, UD's other varsity sports teams have also achieved notable success. For example, the women's field hockey team has won three national championships, the men's lacrosse team has made 14 NCAA tournament appearances, and the women's swimming and diving team has won 10 conference championships.

Overall, the athletic teams at the University of Delaware are competitive at the national level and have a strong reputation for excellence. UD student-athletes have a history of success both on the field/court and in the classroom, with many achieving academic honors and awards.

ALUMNI

The University of Delaware (UD) has a large and diverse alumni network that includes many notable individuals who have achieved success in various fields. Here are some examples of famous UD alumni:

  1. Joe Biden: President of the United States from 2021-present; Vice President of the United States from 2009-2017; US Senator from Delaware from 1973-2009.

  2. Chris Christie: former Governor of New Jersey from 2010-2018.

  3. Elena Delle Donne: WNBA basketball player and Olympic gold medalist.

  4. Ryan Phillippe: actor known for his roles in films such as "Cruel Intentions" and "Crash."

  5. Teri Polo: actress known for her roles in films such as "Meet the Parents" and "The Fosters."

  6. Aubrey Plaza: actress known for her role in the TV show "Parks and Recreation" and films such as "Safety Not Guaranteed" and "Ingrid Goes West."

  7. Valarie Allman: American record holder in the discus throw and Olympic gold medalist.

These are just a few examples of the many accomplished individuals who have graduated from the University of Delaware.

TRADITIONS

UD has several unique and interesting traditions that are cherished by students, alumni, and the university community. Here are some examples:

  1. The Homecoming Bonfire: Each fall, the UD community gathers for the Homecoming Bonfire, a tradition that dates back to the 1930s. The bonfire serves as a symbol of school spirit and unity and is accompanied by music, food, and other festivities.

  2. UDairy Creamery: The UDairy Creamery is a student-run creamery that produces and sells ice cream made from milk produced by cows on the university's farm. Not only does the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources get hands-on experience in food science and production, but the Creamery is a popular spot on campus and has become a beloved tradition for all students, alumni, and visitors.

  3. The Blue Hen Mascot: The Blue Hen is the official mascot of UD and is a symbol of school spirit and pride. The mascot is named after the fighting gamecocks that were once bred in Delaware and represents the fighting spirit and determination of UD students and alumni.

  4. Dela-bration: Dela-bration is an annual spring festival that celebrates the end of the academic year. The festival features food, music, games, and other activities, and provides an opportunity for the UD community to come together and celebrate their accomplishments.

Overall, the University of Delaware is a well-regarded institution with strong academic programs, research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life.

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College Admissions, College Application, College Choice, College PlanningSharon Davis