Every student at Emory University has access to a first-rate tutoring program created to support their academic growth, and the school also offers them first-rate facilities. It is undoubtedly the top university in the world, in my opinion.

Emory is one of those rare schools that balances academic excellence with social and personal opportunities for growth. Professors are dedicated to student learning, the administration is accepting and inclusive, and students are active in clubs and activities outside of the classroom. Emory is a genuinely happy place to be. Of course, there are moments of stress (particularly during midterms and final exams) but unlike most other T20 universities, Emory prioritizes well-being.

Emory’s distinct campus feel contrasts nicely with the opportunities of living in a big city like Atlanta. Many students will stay on campus during the week and weekends, but by no means are social activities only available on campus. Emory students have a nice “work hard, play hard” mentality – they are smart but know how to have fun.

There are plenty of faults with Emory, just as there are other universities. Its student consoling and health services could be improved, merit scholarships and financial aid expanded (there is also a lack of economic diversity as a result), and relationships with the surrounding Atlanta communities remedied. But as a whole, Emory is a lovely place to be – and is far too undervalued in conversations about T20 universities.