Virginia/ North Carolina/ Tennessee

Since its establishment as the nations first public university in 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has earned a reputation as one of the best universities in the world. Their unique school spirit has been forged through more than two centuries of academic excellence, public service, and athletic, professional, and personal achievement. Carolina is known best for: One of the strongest and most diverse student bodies in the nation -- a community, composed of students from every state and more than 100 countries.

The University of Virginia offers the vast intellectual resources of a major research university, but fosters the intimacy, sense of community, and dedication to undergraduate life typically found at a small liberal arts college. While it is public, and welcomes women and men of every background, it also is highly selective and attracts students who seek challenges. Students' motivation to achieve is matched by a culture of mutual support, openness, civility, and above all, integrity and trust.

Duke University offers a unique and compelling combination of academic achievement, engagement with society, and athletic accomplishment at the highest levels. A private comprehensive teaching and research university, Duke traces its roots to 1838, officially becoming Duke University in 1924. With the rigorous academics, the plethora of social and artistic activities, the immersive service and cultural opportunities and the occasional basketball game in Cameron Indoor Stadium, the most important things students need to bring with them to Duke are energy and intellectual curiosity.

Elon University is the premier student-centered learning environment, preparing graduates to be the ethical leaders the world needs. Elon students are ambitious, curious and compassionate, inspired to be big-thinkers and creative problem-solvers. The university's engaging intellectual climate is distinguished by supportive and collaborative human relationships that promote personal growth. The rigorous curriculum is grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and complemented by nationally accredited professional and graduate programs.

One of the nations most respected private schools, Wake Forest University is recognized for its outstanding academic reputation and challenging liberal arts curriculum. With 4,800 undergraduates, the University provides the highly personalized attention characteristic of Americas most selective private institutions coupled with the breadth and depth of a large research institution. Founded in 1834, Wake Forest is committed to personal education, inquiry and exploration, and service.

William & Mary, founded by Royal Charter in 1693, is the second oldest institution of higher education in the country. It has a long history of liberal arts education and a growing research and science curriculum that demonstrates a strong commitment to undergraduate research. Included among the nation's prestigious 'Public Ivies,' William & Mary is a state-assisted institution offering a superior education at a cost far below that of the Ivy League.

An award-winning faculty, exceptional student profile, competitive Division I athletics, top national academic rankings, vital honor code, and nationally-recognized alumni network place Davidson among the nations leading liberal arts colleges. Close contact with professors brings an unusually high number of students into graduate-level research and publishing.