I may be able to help. The children that go there seem to be very happy. They have tremendous access to the faculty which in the end is probably the most important aspect of the education in college. No classes would be taught by grad students-you'll be getting the professor for every class. The kids tha tend to go there seem to be happy, well rounded, solid students.
A student can come out and get into graduate programs, a job, and most likely have life long friends. The campus is nice. Used to be sort of a jumble of buildings but a solid master plan has created a unified campus. The new buildings are great spaces, and they have a good plan for the future. Good support system for the students, both in residence life area and in academic area. If they need assistance, it will be easy to find and happily given.
Sports are popular there. Known for very good D3 Lax and men's Basketball. A few fraternities. You can be happy in one or not.
They will be very generous with financial aid, and if your child is a good student, likely merit aid as well. The school is set right into the downtown of Salem, so even without a car they can get to things on foot in town. Salem is kind of a picture perfect college town. Big enough to have what you need, small downtown feel. Roanoke is adjacent to Salem. The shopping malls and such in in Roanoke. There is really no particular dividing line, no space between the 2. Your child would explore both cities often.
If you have any specific questions, just ask. I may be able to help.
