Compiled from surveys of thousands of students and
administrators, a staff of journalists and freelance
writers collated the information and wrote essays that
were edited by Edward B. Fiske, former Education
Editor of The New York Times. The 20-year-old guide
is known for its “hip and straightforward” descriptions
of both the academic and social environments of the
schools it reviews.

Excerpts about AU:

“I feel that there is a cloning process going on at
schools across America,” opines one student.
“Students look alike, act alike, think alike, and dress
alike. Alfred is a refreshing exception to this rule.”

“Innovation not only shapes the curriculum, but also
has a profound effect on campus life. Small classes
and friendly competition support this diversity while
encouraging individuals to succeed.”

“Students say faculty members really want them to
succeed both in class and in the ‘real world’.
‘Professors are very involved with the students and are
clearly interested in teaching,’ brags one junior….The
quality of teaching is described as very high. ‘Our
students are almost always taught by professors with
Ph.D.s,’ explains a physics major.”

“The university stresses its commitment to helping
undergrads plan their future, and the academic
advising and career planning services are strong
enough for Alfred to deliver on its promise.”

“Campus security is good, according to most. ‘This
town is very safe,’ says one female student. ‘I do not
even think twice about walking around at night.”

“Strongest programs: Ceramic Engineering, Art,
Business, Sciences, Psychology, English.”

“The 232-acre campus is set in the village of Alfred in
the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in Western
New York. ‘Our location is breathtakingly beautiful,’
says a senior…The village of Alfred is quaint, with
sweet shops, children’s parks and bicycle collections.”

Visit the Fiske Guides site