Davis & Elkins College
A historic college nestled in Elkins, WV, offering a close-knit academic environment surrounded by the natural beauty of Monongahela National Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Vibrant foliage and crisp air
Davis & Elkins College
Best Time
Vibrant foliage and crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic college nestled in Elkins, WV, offering a close-knit academic environment surrounded by the natural beauty of Monongahela National Forest.
"Praised for dedicated professors and outdoor access, but some note dorm and food quality issues."
🌲 Outdoor Adventures Await
Elkins is your gateway to Monongahela National Forest. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities.
🎓 Academic Support
A learning center is available for academic assistance, though student commitment can vary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Davis & Elkins College Campus
Main Campus
A picturesque campus with a century of history, offering a serene environment for learning and reflection.
Mountain State Forest Festival
College grounds and surrounding park
An annual celebration featuring craft fairs and community activities, drawing visitors from across the region.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Academic Realities
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Insider Tips
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moving to west virginia for college. any tips?
🌲 Outdoor Adventures Await
Elkins is your gateway to Monongahela National Forest. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities.
🎓 Academic Support
A learning center is available for academic assistance, though student commitment can vary.
Elkins, WV
Moving to Elkins WV
🚗 Consider Your Interests
If you love the outdoors, Elkins is ideal. If not, explore other options.
Strongly considering moving to WV for a slower pace of life. Any advice?
Tips
from all over the internet
🌲 Outdoor Adventures Await
Elkins is your gateway to Monongahela National Forest. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities.
🎓 Academic Support
A learning center is available for academic assistance, though student commitment can vary.
🚗 Consider Your Interests
If you love the outdoors, Elkins is ideal. If not, explore other options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Davis & Elkins College is often praised for its dedicated professors and the beautiful natural setting of Elkins, WV, ideal for outdoor lovers. However, some reviews point to issues with dormitory conditions, food quality, and administrative efficiency, alongside concerns about student academic commitment.
"Passing through still love this campus. Thanks for the great memories and friendships."
Jennifer Hopwood
"Went for Mountain state forest festival. Craft fair in the college and fair activities in the park across the street."
Robert Litkenhaus
"The school looks good and enticing on paper, and maybe even after the first visit. The framework is there for a good college experience, but it is poorly executed. Since several students can't find anything interesting to do on the area, most of them revert to partying and drinking. The commitment of the student body is reflected by it's average 2.9 GPA.
The dorms were beyond awful: small, noisy, dirty bathrooms, and expensive. The food is worse than the dorms in both taste and quality, especially if you're and athlete trying to eat for recovery and performance.
I transferred in from another school, and transferred out after one semester. In my transfer process, I still had problems with the registrar and student life offices. They take incredibly long to get anything done (i.e., send transcripts & fill out Student Reports).
I will say that the professors were, for the most part, fantastic. They were committed and knowledgeable, and the small school environment allowed them to work very closely with students. This allows students to make of their education what they want. However, the commitment of the students themselves drag down the standard of the curriculum as a whole.
I would not recommend this school for anyone who is from out of state, is interested in research opportunities, or is looking for a scholarly environment."
Kaleb Augat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Davis & Elkins College is located in Elkins, West Virginia. The nearest major airport is in Charleston (CRW), about a 2-hour drive away. Driving is the most common way to reach Elkins, with access via US-33 and US-219. Public transportation options directly to the college are limited.
Having a car is highly recommended for exploring Elkins and the surrounding Monongahela National Forest. Local public transport is minimal. The college campus itself is walkable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The college campus itself is generally open to visitors for exploration. However, specific events or buildings may have separate admission fees. The Mountain State Forest Festival, held on campus and in the nearby park, typically has free entry to the grounds, with costs for specific attractions or vendors.
The campus grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. For specific building access or administrative offices, it's best to check the official Davis & Elkins College website for their operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The campus offers a pleasant environment for walks and appreciating the architecture. It's also a venue for events like the Mountain State Forest Festival. For students, academic support centers and recreational facilities are available.
The campus itself is a landmark, with a history spanning over a century. Specific buildings and green spaces contribute to its charm. The college is also known for its connection to the Mountain State Forest Festival.
Student life can be varied. While some reviews mention a focus on partying and drinking due to limited local activities, others highlight close professor-student relationships. The college offers a learning center for academic support.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Student reviews indicate that the food quality and taste at the college dining facilities can be a concern, particularly for athletes needing performance-focused meals. It's advisable to explore off-campus dining options in Elkins for a wider variety and potentially better quality.
Elkins offers a range of local restaurants and eateries. Exploring the downtown area will provide options from casual dining to more traditional American fare. It's a good idea to check recent local reviews for current recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic campus architecture and the surrounding natural beauty of Elkins provide excellent photo opportunities. The fall foliage can be particularly stunning. Consider capturing the campus grounds and any event spaces during festivals.
Yes, the campus is generally welcoming to visitors and photographers. Be mindful of any restricted areas or private events. The natural light and scenic views make it a pleasant place to capture images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For those considering the college for educational purposes, it's worth noting that some reviews point to challenges with dormitories and dining halls, which could impact younger students. Parents might want to investigate these aspects further if a child is considering enrollment.
🏞️ Outdoor Enthusiasts
Plan your visit around the seasons to experience different activities, from vibrant fall foliage to winter sports. The college's proximity to these natural wonders makes it an ideal location for those seeking an active, nature-focused experience.
🎓 Prospective Students
It's advisable to visit the campus, speak with current students and faculty, and thoroughly research the academic offerings and support services. Pay attention to feedback regarding dormitories, dining, and administrative efficiency, as these aspects can significantly impact the overall college experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Outdoor Advantage: Elkins and Monongahela National Forest
For those considering a move or a visit, the emphasis on outdoor pursuits is paramount. If your idea of a good time involves exploring nature, then Elkins and its surroundings will likely exceed your expectations. However, if you prefer urban amenities or a bustling nightlife, the more secluded nature of this region might feel limiting. The Mountain State Forest Festival, held annually, is a significant event that showcases local crafts and community spirit, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage and a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts.
Academic Experience: Strengths and Criticisms
However, some reviews suggest that the overall academic rigor can be impacted by student commitment levels, with average GPAs reflecting this. Concerns have been raised about the execution of the academic framework and the perceived low admission requirements, leading some to question the scholarly environment. For prospective students, it's important to weigh the benefits of close faculty interaction against the potential challenges related to student engagement and academic standards.
Student Life and Campus Facilities
Administrative processes, such as those handled by the registrar and student life offices, have also been cited as slow. There's a perception among some that the college prioritizes revenue generation over academic excellence. Security personnel have also been mentioned in critical reviews regarding their interactions with students.
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