More About Vanderbilt

It seems like we’ll be leaving for Vanderbilt any day now, while I know our departure isn't until July, I can't wait until we’re there. But, until we’re actually on our way to Tennessee, there’s plenty of things for me to learn about Vanderbilt. That's exactly what I've been doing in what little free time I have(finals are wonderful). Anyways, I thought I’d share some of the interesting things I've learned so far. 

First, Vanderbilt was founded in 1873(I guess you could say it’s old) and started after a gift was given to create a university. That gift that founded Vanderbilt University was about $1 million dollars, and it was given by Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt. He donated this money in order to, "contribute to strengthening the ties which should exist between all sections of our common country.” This mission would be accomplished through the university that is now named after him. 

Vanderbilt University, featuring a statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt 

The campus site was chosen by Methodist Bishop Holland N. McTyeire, part of his vision included the trees that Vanderbilt is now famous for, many of which he planted himself. The original 75 acres that were Vanderbilt University were packed full with trees, because of these trees, the campus is now known as a national arboretum. The Campus and its buildings have evolved over the years, it now spans 330 acres(and has over 6000 trees) and has 179 buildings. 

An image of the campus showcasing the abundance of trees

Vanderbilt over the years has changed, but has definitely fulfilled it’s goal of contributing to the ties between all sections of the country. Vanderbilt University has, today, around 6,500 undergraduates and 5,300 graduate and professional students. It operates as a research based liberal arts school and has students from states throughout the country, along with about 7.6% of the students body being composed of international students.

Nashville, Tennessee 

Vanderbilt, as you probably know, is located in Nashville, Tennessee. Also, interestingly enough, Nashville has been named as America’s friendliest city for 3 years in a row. Students seem to enjoy their lives at Vanderbilt and are involved in the community, both on campus and in the city of Nashville. Just a quick google search gave me results about students getting involved in various matters throughout the city. Students are very vocal about the location of the campus, they love the proximity of the city in combination with the beautiful state of Tennessee. I’m sure that during my time at Vanderbilt I, too, will grow to love the campus and the city that surrounds it.