What is the SMU campus like in Dallas, Texas?

I'm considering SMU for college, and I was wondering what the campus vibe is like since it's in Dallas. How's the student life there? Would love to hear any personal experiences or general impressions.

SMU in Dallas, Texas, has a vibrant campus life that many students adore. As it's a mid-sized private university, the student body is not overwhelmingly large, and you can get a fair balance of personal attention as well as a diverse mix of individuals.

The campus itself holds a beautiful blend of classic and modern architecture. Its most distinct feature would be Dallas Hall, a centrally located academic building surrounded by a lawn known as the 'boulevard.' This fantastic spot plays host to school traditions and tailgating before football games.

Students generally describe the campus as clean and well-maintained. An added bonus is the access to all the resources and amenities Dallas offers because of the campus's prime location. You'd be minutes away from a city known for its vibrant arts scene, numerous corporations (which can be great for internships and job opportunities), and a wide variety of food and entertainment options.

The student life is also quite vibrant. There are over 200 student clubs and organizations that cater to a wide variety of interests including academics, advocacy, culture, faith, and more. SMU students are known to be active and engaged, whether it's in community service, Greek life, student government, or athletics.

The one commonly expressed downside is that SMU students are sometimes stereotyped as being affluent and somewhat exclusive. However, many students also report that while there are those who fit the stereotype, like at any school, a significant portion of the student body is comprised of down-to-earth individuals from a variety of backgrounds.

A unique feature of life at SMU is the "Community Engagement," a system implemented to highlight the university's dedication to ethics and integrity within the community. This extends to various initiatives and groups established to make SMU a more inclusive and welcoming space.

It's always a good idea to visit the campus (if possible) or participate in virtual tours to get a first-hand feel of the environment before making any decisions.