CHLOE O. FOLSOM

MY MAJOR

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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.)

WHY LIBERTY

Liberty University is my third college choice because it is out-of-state and its mechanical engineering program is not yet ABET accredited, although it will be by 2019. The campus is updated and offers sophisticated academic facilities such as the Arthur S. DeMoss Hall, the Center for Natural Sciences, and the Jerry Falwell Library. Liberty’s goal of providing quality education guided by a Christian worldview and its commitment to “producing Christ-centered men and women with the values, knowledge, and skills necessary to impact tomorrow's technology-related disciplines” are incentives for me. 

LOCATION

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Liberty is located in Lynchburg, Virginia, which has a population less than the average metropolitan suburb. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg is not only a university town, but also is rich in history and outdoor recreation. The James River, Blackwater Creek Natural Area, and Appalachian Trail are some nearby attractions. Also, the university owned Liberty Mountain offers students and the public an extensive trail system and the Snowflex Centre, an artificial, all-year operational ski/snowboarding and tubing complex.

Liberty is a key player in Lynchburg’s economic infrastructure, providing over 6,000 jobs in the city and $2.9 million value in volunteer work. In total, Liberty produced $1.3 billion in economic activity in the state.

HOUSING

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Liberty offers six residence halls, two of which are apartment style. The Commons residence halls are closest to the academic facilities that I would need to frequent.  

ACADEMIC and STUDENT SERVICES

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Liberty seeks to meet both the academic and spiritual needs of its students. Therefore, it offers more in-depth resources for its academic body. 

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Liberty’s academic and student services differ in title from those of public institutions. CASAS (College of Applied Studies & Academic Success) is the hub for academic services, which include advising, tutoring, writing and testing services. Other student services include the Student Advocate Office, Parent & Family Connections, International Student Center, and Student Counseling Services (mental health).

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These services help students navigate financial aid, costs, courses, housing, understand the university’s policies and procedures, and help resolve personal issues and roommate conflicts. In addition, they provide resources for parents of Liberty students and aid international students as they integrate to Liberty and U.S. life.

STUDENT LIFE

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Student life opportunities at Liberty include over 100 student-led organizations, sports (intramural, club, and NCAA Division I), outdoor recreation, community service and outreach, and arts.

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Clubs and Honor Societies of Personal Interest:

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• Tau Sigma National Honor Society (for transfer students)

• American Society of Mechanical Engineers

• Engineering Missions and Research Club

• Liberty University American Society of
  Mechanical Engineers

• Operation Christmas Child

• Ratio Christi (LU Apologetics Club)

COSTS

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Average Net Annual Cost for…

• All Undergrad Students: $28,657

• On Campus without Financial Aid: $34,176

• Off Campus without Financial Aid: $33,990

• On Campus with Financial Aid: $23,408

• Off Campus with Financial Aid: $23,222

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On-Campus Housing – Per Semester: $2,300 - 3,750

Meal Plans Per Semester: $485 - 2,090