[indy-bama_grl]

Hey,

I need help!!! I bounce between living in Indianapolis,IN (grew up and work here) and Huntsville,AL (lived here less than 2 months). However in the fall I will move to UofA Tuscaloosa.

I know the bare minimum. Football reigns supreme, they have a rec center ranked in the top 5 in nation, and details listed on website.

I need to know:

Who are the big rival schools?
Good edu?
City atmosphere?
Why is the mascot an elephant and the cheer 'Roll Tide'?

Can anyone help?

[nalabama]

In education, UofA Tuscaloosa's (UAT'S) big rival schools are Auburn University (AU) and UofA Birmingham (UAB). All three schools are as good academically as you want to make them. In athletics, the UAT/AU rivalry dwarfs all others in the state. Tuscaloosa is a trade center for West Alabama, but is not a particularly cosmopolitan area (but neither is Auburn). Much of the social life at UAT revolves around the Greek system, alcohol, and athletics, but there are many on-campus student groups to participate in and create your own circle of friends.

If memory serves, UAT's football team (which has a storied history) has at different times been characterized by sports writers as being like unto a "herd of red elephants" or a "Crimson Tide" in vanquishing its foes.

My family, including in-laws and out-laws, has greatly enjoyed attending a UAT and celebrating its successes over the years. I hope you enjoy it as well.

[indy-bama_grl]

Thanks nalabama

I have never been to Tuscaloosa, so I have no idea what is in store for me. I didn't think that I would figure out the background of the 'Crimson Tide'. Is there anything else I need to know- so I do not seem the campus idiot I am- when I get to UAT?

[nalabama]

Check out the university's website. It's just like most state universities as far as I can tell, except for the sports fever. If you really want to get into UofA sports, you need to find the al.com and tidesports sports sites. It's all silliness as compared to preparing yourself for the rest of your life, but it is big fun! One major warning...if you don't know who Bear Bryant was, or who Nick Saban is, you do need to find out.

On a more serious note, please be assured that you you can get as fine an education at the University as anywhere in the world. Let the Dean of your school know (ask for an interview with them if possible) that you want to be challenged by your college experience and I am sure they will see that it happens. I hope you have a wonderful experience!

[indy-bama_grl]

Thanks for the info nalabama. I know Bryant and Saban, as well as a few other people associated with UofA, so no worries .