Georgia State University

Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA, USA
Public
4 Year

3rd Generation GSU Student's Review

Review of Georgia State University

from Doraville, GA

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

The professors here are top-notch, no doubt about it, due in part because Georgia State is a research university; professors are doing research along with teaching as well. They really know their stuff and you'll find that most professors (well, all of the professors that I've encountered so far) are really passionate about what they teach. They are also really helpful and more than willing to meet with you during their office hours or answer any questions via email if you needed additional clarification.

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

To be honest, I did not want to go to GSU at first mainly because both of my older sisters went there. I wanted to go somewhere different, but I'm glad I chose GSU over my top choice school (UGA). Five stars is not enough stars to describe how much I truly love it here. Honestly, Georgia State is underrated. I've heard so many bad things about GSU and I've heard people put GSU down but that's all just a misconception and a misunderstanding. After the first few weeks of attending GSU, I was surprised to find out how much I truly love GSU. The atmosphere and vibe of being in the heart of downtown is something no other Georgia college/university has to offer. I'm in the Honors Program here and it's been absolutely great. I've enjoyed all of my classes so far. There's plenty of things to do, people to meet, and resources to use. It's all a matter of putting yourself out there and getting the most out of your experience.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

I live off-campus to save money on housing and I use Marta. GSU offers a great discount on monthly Marta cards for students (savings of $27 a month) and GSU is located conveniently in between the GA State Station (Blue/Green Line) and the Five Points Station & Peachtree Center Station (Red/Gold Line). With the new changes to HOPE, money's going to be a tight stretch for both incoming and current students. GSU offers great facilities such as the SRC and there's ALWAYS an event going on (and I honestly do mean ALWAYS). But, of course, every college could cut back on spending to make it more affordable for their students.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

1. Entering college is like moving to a new school in a different area; it's a brand new start where nobody knows who you are. So if you were the introverted, shy kid in high school, you can be the extroverted, funny kid in college. Nobody has to know. ;) 2. Don't be afraid to ask questions. People are always more than willing to help. Ask for advice and tips on classes and such from current students. 3. A great resource when planning out your schedule: ratemyprofessors.com Learn to LOVE it and cherish it; it'll become your best friend. Guaranteed. 4. Another great tip: go online and rent your textbooks. There are plenty of textbook websites that offer free shipping/returns for textbook rentals. It's a great money-saver as opposed to buying a textbook and trying to turn around and sell it. 5. Attend class. Just do it. Most professors base their tests and exams on their notes in-class. Just go. Students don't realize that it is YOUR money that YOU are PAYING to go to class. If you skip all the time, that's just a waste of your money. 6. School is still school. In college, though, you have to pay for books and classes. Be smart about your money and your time. 7. Enjoy the freedoms that comes with college but don't take anything for granted.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

GSU is for the people who love the urban feel and raw edge of the city, who also love being in a diverse, open-minded cultural melting pot and love meeting people from all walks of life. If you don't really care for a pretty college campus and don't mind the hustle and bustle of the city, then GSU's the right place for you.