Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is a Napoleon college. Though small and in general unknown outside those who have reasons to look at college rankings, Case also stands as a powerful school that finds itself on fertile ground for students with imagination, innovation, and motivation. As stated by others, Cleveland and Case have room for improvement, as do all colleges. However, I dare say that Case prepares its students appropriately by forcing them into a sink-or-swim environment that replicates post-campus life. Case mimics reality, a world where opportunity isn't handed on a platter and where social outreach, intelligent growth, and personal motivation are an individual's responsibilities, not a governmental obligation. What looks like oppression to some students is to others an opportunity to be challenged and to mature. It is what college exists for. If people wish to party and lead wild lifestyles, going to college is not the most time efficient or cost effective path to take. The 50k we spend per year will go far for traveling and living an eventful and exciting life. Perhaps some students who feel frustrated with Case might benefit from spending a year's tuition cost/time traveling and enjoying the world. Perhaps after such adventures students could then sit down at the table, pick back up the Case hand they folded a year ago, and realize that for education, Case truly excels at what it sets out to do. I admit that TV Guide, pre-planned entertainment is not Case's forte - though I do know most Case students still somehow form lasting social networks and many wonderful friends. Case borders along a blatantly obvious poverty zone - but amidst the same streets shine not only countless cultural experiences but also many areas of need for those students who feel positive actions speak louder than empty complaints. Case requires its students to make sacrifices to reach the goals they seek to attain - but those who give what it takes succeed in their careers and accomplish their ambitions. Napoleon was no great sight in foreign lands to the native peoples who expected a tall and daunting military commander - but those who were aware of who Napoleon was recognized him as a strong, pragmatic commander, the leader of France. In the same manner Case will be a disappointment to students who apply without thinking about what enrollment here will put before them. For students who are aware of what Case has to offer, there is no better educational opportunity in the country.