Group IV majors research reality

dered whether a school like MIT would be more appropriate for me. A friend and fellow science geek tried to convince me that "real science" couldn't be done at Yale.

He was wrong. Whether your interest is in biological or physical sciences, or even engineering, you'll find a faculty eager to teach, and facilities that easily compete with top schools across the country. Yale's reputation as a superior liberal arts institution belies its commitment to the "techies" as well as the "fuzzies."

Science classes can be tough, and walking up Science Hill at 9:30 a.m. is not fun, but the academic rigor and depth of material covered in Group IV can be very satisfying-and everybody needs a little exercise. Be prepared for large introductory science lectures, especially in chemistry and physics. Upper level seminars get great reviews, since they provide a chance to look closely at scientific problems in a small group led by a real professor. Learning such complex material can be daunting, but hard work shared makes for a bonding unique to Group IV majors.

What I've found to be the most satisfying aspect of being a Group IV major is the opportunity to conduct research. Professors here love to work with undergraduates, and most are very approachable. Working in a lab gives you the chance to see how real scientists work; and to apply what you learn in lecture. The faculty's research interests are broad, and almost every department boasts big names. Facilities are excellent as well, ranging from the gothic Sloane Physics Laboratory to the three-year-old Bass Center, which houses the Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry department. All in all, a Yale science education is well balanced and deep. And it's probably a lot more fun than being at MIT.

--Michael Burstein

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