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IN A NUTSHELL

James Madison University (JMU) is a public university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and is known for its strong programs in business, education, and health sciences, among others. Admissions to JMU are competitive, and the university considers a range of factors when evaluating applicants. 

ACADEMICS

Prospective students at JMU should know several things to make an informed decision about attending this university. Here are a few key things to consider:

1. Academics: JMU is a public research university that offers over 130 undergraduate and graduate programs across eight colleges. Some of the most popular programs include business, health sciences, education, and engineering. JMU has a strong reputation for its academic rigor and its commitment to hands-on learning opportunities through research, internships, and community service.

2. Campus Life: JMU has a vibrant campus community with over 350 student organizations, club sports, and intramurals. The university is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes personal growth and development. Campus life at JMU is known for its lively social scene, with events such as the annual Springfest and homecoming game.

3. Location: JMU is located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, which is a small college town in the Shenandoah Valley. The town has a rich history and culture and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The Appalachian Trail and Shenandoah National Park are both located nearby, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

4. Diversity and Inclusion: JMU is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. The university has a number of programs and initiatives in place to support underrepresented students and promote cultural competency among all members of the campus community.

5. Admissions: JMU has a competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of around 73%. The university considers a variety of factors when evaluating applicants, including GPA, test scores, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and essays. Prospective students should also be aware of the university's deadlines and application requirements.

HONORS COLLEGE

The Honors College at JMU offers an enriched and challenging curriculum for academically motivated students who seek a more rigorous and interdisciplinary educational experience. Students who are admitted to the Honors College at JMU are part of a community of high-achieving students and have access to a range of benefits, including smaller class sizes, specialized honors courses, priority registration, research opportunities, and a supportive academic community. JMU Honors also offers various co-curricular activities, such as honors seminars, workshops, and social events, to enhance students' academic and personal growth.

Admission to the Honors College at JMU is competitive and requires a separate application in addition to the regular application for admission to JMU. The application typically includes essays, letters of recommendation, and an interview or portfolio submission, depending on the program of study. The specific admission requirements and application process for the Honors College at JMU may vary, and it's best to check the most up-to-date information on JMU's official website or contact the Honors College directly for the most current and accurate information.

STUDENT LIFE

James Madison University has a vibrant campus culture with a variety of fun traditions that are enjoyed by students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Some of the notable traditions at JMU include:

1. The JMU Fight Song: JMU's official fight song, "The Fight Song of James Madison University," is a spirited tune that is played at athletic events and other JMU gatherings. It is often sung with great enthusiasm by students and alumni to show their school pride and support for JMU's sports teams.

2. "Purple Out" Game: During JMU's home football games, students and fans participate in a "Purple Out," where they dress in purple, the school's official color, to create a sea of purple in the stands, showing their unity and support for the JMU Dukes football team.

3. Festival Ball: Festival Ball is an annual formal dance held by the Student Government Association (SGA) at JMU. It is a highly anticipated event that allows students to dress up and enjoy a night of music, dancing, and socializing.

4. The TDU Bucket List: The University Program Board (UPB) at JMU organizes an event called "The TDU (Taylor Down Under) Bucket List" each year. It is a fun-filled evening where students can participate in various activities and challenges, such as rock climbing, zip-lining, and food challenges, at JMU's campus recreation center, Taylor Down Under.

5. "Painting the Rock": Located near JMU's Quad, the "Rock" is a large boulder that serves as a canvas for student artwork. Students are encouraged to express their creativity by painting the rock with different designs, messages, and themes throughout the year. It has become a popular tradition for students to gather and leave their mark on the rock.

6. "First Night": "First Night" is an annual event held at the beginning of the fall semester to welcome new students to JMU. It includes a variety of activities, such as games, live music, and performances, to help new students get to know each other and feel a sense of community.

7. "Madipalooza": "Madipalooza" is a spring music festival organized by the University Program Board (UPB) at JMU. It features live music, food, games, and other entertainment, and is a popular event that brings the JMU community together to celebrate the end of the academic year.

These are just a few examples of the fun traditions that are enjoyed at James Madison University. JMU has a lively campus culture with many other events, activities, and traditions that contribute to the vibrant student experience at the university.

Overall, prospective students at JMU should consider the university's academic offerings, campus life, location, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and admissions process when deciding whether to attend.

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