When I began my college search, my parents started calling me “Goldilocks.” Some schools were too big, others were too small, some were too close, some were too far. Essentially what I was looking for was a medium-sized school that gave me a culturally diverse experience without the overwhelming feel of a huge city. While very few other schools met this criteria, Tulane was my “just right.” Here are some reasons why Tulane is unlike any other university.

1. Location

Tulane is both a “city school” and “campus school.” Some of the schools I visited were located in secluded areas populated only by college students, while others were located smack in the middle of a big city. I found it hard to choose which setting would be best for me. Luckily, Tulane has given me the “best of both worlds.” I get to live on an absolutely beautiful campus that is located in one the world’s greatest cities.

2. FOOD, FOOD, FOOD

Although I may be biased, I can undoubtedly say that restaurants in New Orleans are some of the best I have ever visited. I have yet to eat one bad meal. Whether it was the warm milk and cookies at Willa Jean or the hummus from Shaya, NOLA has yet to disappoint. I am still in the process of crossing off all the restaurants that reside in the notes section of my phone, while anxiously trying to avoid the fresh 15. (Wish me luck!)

3. The weather

When choosing a school, I was very particular about the type of whether I wanted. I absolutely hate being cold (I mean, who doesn’t). I also hate being extremely hot. You would think there would be no compromise to my pickiness—yet, the weather at Tulane once again satisfied my “just right” criteria. While my friends who attend schools in upstate New York are bundled up under parkas and scarves, I’m still wearing jean shorts. While it is humid and hot in the summer (not great for the hair) the weather stays mostly in the 60s and 70s throughout the rest of the year. You can’t say that about Ann Arbor!

4. The people

As a New Yorker, I was very used to the aggressive “every woman for the herself" attitude. In New York City, when I would walk down the street, very few people would look up or even stop to smile at you. In New Orleans, however, almost every person I have encountered has been absolutely lovely. People stop to say hi and of course the occasional “how y’all doing.” I am truly surprised I have not started to say “y’all” just yet.

5. The resources

I feel like I’m channeling my mom here when I say this, but the resources that Tulane offers are truly amazing. Tulane has been nothing but helpful throughout my transition. They not only offer a variety of resources such as tutoring, counseling and peer coaching, but also encourage students to utilize these resources. There are so many people who genuinely care about your well-being, which is extremely comforting and important.

6. The culture

New Orleans is a culturally rich city. Almost every single weekend there is some type of festival. Whether it’s a festival dedicated to all the different types of po-boys, beignets or the famous Mardi Gras—a festival so big we get a week off of school—there is something exciting almost every week here in New Orleans.

7. The parties

Sorry mom and dad, but yes, this is one of the very many reasons why I love Tulane. There is never a boring weekend at Tulane. Whether it’s starting the night at The Boot (the 18-and-older bar located nearly on campus), dancing on the tables at F&Ms on Thursdays, tailgates and parties on Saturdays, or dressing up for a themed party, every weekend seems to be more fun than the next!

8. Friends

While I am sure it’s true that no matter where you go, you will make amazing friends in college. I have been lucky enough to meet some of the most amazing people here at Tulane. I have made friends who already feel like my sisters and I have only known them for about four months. Almost everyone I have encountered is friendly and welcoming, and I look forward to meeting many more people.

9. The education

This year, Tulane has moved up in the rankings and is now #39 in the country. This rank is well-deserved. I have gotten the privilege to work with extremely intelligent students from all over the world and to learn from bright and well-respected professors, many of whom have already had a profound impact on me. Tulane gives students, even freshmen, the opportunity to be in classes where the professor not only knows your name, but also takes the time to learn about you as a person. The classes are not only interesting, but also engaging, and the professors are always willing to help you.

10. The happiness

I’m sure the thought that many people have when choosing a college is that you want to go somewhere where you believe you will be happy. This was a huge factor for me when I started my college search. Tulane was ranked #10 for colleges with the happiest students. As a current student, I can absolutely attest to this. I find myself, as well as other students around campus, smiling as they walk to and from their classes. There is always positive energy around campus and it is infectious.

Good luck finding your just right school, and if it happens to be Tulane...

ROLL WAVE!