What’s better about Athens? Genuinely curious. They both have about the same size population, similar size universities, similarly ranked universities (guessing they draw a very similar type of student), very similar demographics, similar numbers in terms of HHI, poverty. I’m just wondering what sets Athens apart as a better college town? |
Since very few live on campus in Florida that would be a concern for me. It just confirms how decentralized the school is. |
This was my experience too. If you wanted to go out of town, doing so was reasonably convenient. I will say that UF also has a ton to do on campus so for that reason, you could just as likely stay on campus and have a blast. Importantly though, you had options. |
I believe UF is much higher ranked. |
Correct. So, again, what makes Athens a better college town? |
Even the kids that live off campus, basically live right across the street (literally walking distance - and in some cases the off campus apartments are closer to campus classes and libraries compared to the actual dorms on campus). Its not like other schools where all off campus dorms require a car or bus. |
DP- I don't think that Athens is a better college town. Essentially, Gainesville is built and molded around catering to UF students. |
It routinely shows up on the list of best college towns because of its charm, music scene (where REM got its start), and hug number of bars and restaurants. It’s also just an hour from Atlanta |
Gainesville also has a big music scene where a lot of famous bands got their start, and a huge number of bars and restaurants and is not that far from several major cities: Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville...I just am not convinced Athens is better. |
Is it easy to get these off campus apartments that are within walking distance? I know parking is a huge issue which is pretty much the case with any large college. There are so many moped scooters on campus. I can't see my DC favoring a moped over walking, but it's definitely a thing there! |
YES - very easy to get off campus housing walkable to campus (which is another reason why many decide to go on campus - walkable to campus and you get your private space). People do use scooters because the campus can be spread out, but in no one necessary. Parking is an issue on campus (particularly for freshmen), but with an off campus apartment, you get parking. Also, the more senior you get, the easier/better parking you can get. Most freshmen will stay on campus only because it is the easiest way to meet people. |
Isn't Tom Petty from Gainesville? |
Harvey Mudd. Not even close imo, it gets the advantages of a SLAC while not being so small (due to the collective) and is the best CS school out of these even beating out Purdue. |
yes. Other well known music from Gainesville includes Sister Hazel, Less than Jake, among many others. |
Thank you, are you familiar with the interaction of students with the 5C? |