Despite the frigid weather, the atmosphere at SUNY Geneseo is unparalleled with attention grabbing sunsets, rolling hills and a picturesque college town vibe. The academic program at Geneseo provides a diverse array of classes with professors who genuinely care about their students and want to see them succeed. Socially, Geneseo is in remote Western New York, but the friends I have made here helped me explore the events and places that surround SUNY Geneseo.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
As a prospective student SUNY Geneseo should not fall below your radar. Whether Geneseo is your safety school or your reach dream school, the academics and overall atmosphere should not go unnoticed. For any prospective college student my first tip would be to take a variety of AP classes. I entered Geneseo with 28 transfer credits which allowed me to erase some General Education requirements and start working on my major sooner. In addition, this may allow you to add on additional minors or concentrations in the future. Rather than focusing solely on one or two subjects of AP classes, taking a variety of different subjects will help you fulfill more General Education requirements.
Though many may suggest being a well-rounded student and I agree that this is important, I would emphasize the importance of dedicating your time to a few activities, extra-curriculars or volunteer experiences that you truly enjoy. Colleges, especially Geneseo, like to see what you can bring to the college. Demonstrating that you have a strong interest or knowledge base in particular areas rather than shallow interests in a variety of areas may be more desirable to certain colleges.
Geneseo loves diversity! If you have an experience that can speak to your tolerance of others, your multicultural background, or your interest in others it would be a great idea to write about it for an essay. Rather than focusing your essay solely on your own personal development, try relating your experience to how you view others and why it makes you a more diverse, experienced individual. For instance, travel experiences, growing up in diverse neighborhoods, etc.
Finally, if you are wait listed or are unsure about your chances of being accepted, contact the admissions office and let them know you're interested by setting up a tour. This can easily change admission decisions from maybe to accepted.
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
Geneseo is by no means an easy public school. Each major possesses different challenges and rigors specific to the subject. The general education classes are moderately challenging. I have never taken a class at Geneseo that I felt was a waste of time, even if it did not relate to my major.
As an Early Childhood/Childhood Education Major the most challenging aspect is the time consuming nature of the major. For instance, students are required to attend off-campus field visits throughout the year at various locations. Though this has the potential to be burdensome, the field visits are exceptional learning experiences and are quite fun for a change of pace. Overall the professors in the School of Education are highly dedicated and knowledgeable.
As a Human Development Concentration I have taken a variety of courses in Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology. Within the psychology department I have struggled to get to know the professors and have not always agreed with the difficulty of certain tests, but I have always learned valuable information. My sociology and anthropology classes have also been highly informative with reasonable workloads.
As an Environmental Studies Minor I have absolutely loved every class I have taken. With courses available in various natural and social sciences I have found each course to be highly informative, fairly challenging and well worth the effort. The professors were dedicated and helpful.
Overall, the academic rigor of Geneseo has never been unfair. It has never been a secret that students who dedicate time and effort to their studies are likely to perform well academically. Professors are generally available to students who are struggling and I have never encountered an instance where I felt the academics were unfairly challenging.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
After living on campus for three years I have chosen to live on campus for a third year. The freshman dorms generally consist of Jones which is located in the heart of the campus and Onondaga which is located on South Side, a 5-10 minute walk from the academic buildings. These corridor-style buildings were great for getting to know new students, but they certainly weren't glamorous. I lived in Onondaga in a decent sized room. The dorm had its share of rowdy freshman, but the experience was well worth it.
My sophomore year I lived in Allegany in a suite with five other girls. The suite style was a major upgrade from Onondaga. The closet space was much appreciated, the common room was spacious and having our own bathroom was a huge blessing! Additionally, each floor had its own kitchen area for cooking.
Overall, dorm life is probably quite typical and comparable to other colleges. The RAs were generally understanding and left residents alone as long as they were reasonably quiet during quiet hours. The maintenance crew was helpful and the dorms were cleaned regularly.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
Though the college has been exploring more ethnic and healthier foods, there simply is not enough variety and the dining halls are often filled with greasy, fattening meals. Unfortunately, the best food on campus is the chocolate chip cookie.
As a vegetarian the options are even more limited, though Geneseo does clearly label the vegetarian options and is sure to provide at least one option for vegetarians and vegans.
The meal plans are highly inflated and not worth the money. Unfortunately, if you are living on campus you are required to purchase a meal plan, so there is no avoiding the food.
The layouts of the dining halls are ineffective and lead to confusing lines and large crowds. It seems that every time Geneseo remodels a dining hall the only aspect that improves is the physical look of the room rather than the food being served. The inclusion of Starbucks in the College Union was a welcomed addition for a break from Geneseo CAS food.
Overall, the food takes getting used to if you are not accustomed to greasy meals, but there are certainly ways of finding healthier options if you don't mind getting sick of the same few meals.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
On the weekends students generally attend parties at Frat, Sorority, or Sports houses if they know someone in the group. Otherwise students generally pregame in the dorms (which is not allowed, but it is easy to avoid being caught) and then venture to an apartment or party off-campus.
The social aspect of Geneseo is probably quite comparable to other colleges, especially SUNY colleges in upstate New York. We have a cheap movie theater, a variety of restaurants off-campus, and a bowling alley.
In warmer weather (which is rare) Letchworth State park is about 20 minutes from Geneseo and is a great place to go with a group of friends to barbecue, hike and hang out outside. Also, Fallbrook is a few minute drive (or you can walk if you're feeling adventurous) from campus and offers a beautiful waterfall.
Rochester is a half hour drive if you are interested in a more city-like scene.
In all honesty, most college students would prefer not to spend money so it is easiest to hang out with friends or attend the Late Knight events offered every weekend at the union. Though many of them are lame, there's often lots of free giveaways and they are an easy way to spend time without spending money.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
As one of the top rated SUNY schools in the system (or in my opinion, the top rated), Geneseo absolutely provides an exceptional education for the price of a public college. I am continually surprised by the reputation Geneseo has made for itself when people commend me for attending the public ivy. Though small, Geneseo is widely known as an exceptional school for an even more exceptional price.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
The most useful information for a new student at Geneseo would be navigating the connections between the academic buildings. In the freezing weather it will be imperative for students to know how to walk between classes using the underground passageways and overground bridges that connect Sturges, Frasier, Welles, South, and Wadsworth academic buildings.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Honestly, any student can find his or her niche at Geneseo. The reality is that although Geneseo prides itself on being a diverse school it is overwhelmingly populated by white students. As a white student myself, I cannot speak for those in the minority, but there are a variety of clubs and activities run by various religious groups and ethnic backgrounds. I have never witnessed any discrimination towards particular groups. Anyone from High School valedictorian, lacrosse bro, or video game nerd can find other like-minded peers. Those who find it difficult to fit in at Geneseo are generally not as open-minded.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
Like most colleges Geneseo offers hundreds of clubs and activities for students to get involved. I have been a member of Geneseo Environmental Organization since freshman year which is well represented on campus and takes part in a variety of activities such as sustainability initiatives, trips to environmental conferences and weekly meetings.
There are a variety of intramural sports for students who are not planning to play sports at a college-level, but would like to continue their sport.
Geneseo has a club for everything I can think of and if they do not already have an established club students can create their own club through a rigorous (but rewarding) application process.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
As someone who is not a member of Greek Life I am not particularly knowledgable. However, Greek Life is moderately prominent on campus, but never forced upon students. Unlike some schools, there is little disparity between Greek and non-Greek students.
Of course, there are Greek organizations with a variety of aims, from volunteerism, major-specific, or a partying focus.
How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?
I always find this question funny because this seems like the biggest concern among parents, and the least of my concerns while at Geneseo. Though I am aware that a tragic or dangerous event can happen anywhere, Geneseo seems like the safest place in the world. It is a common occurrence for students to walk alone at night and I have never felt threatened while on campus or in the Geneseo area. In addition, Geneseo has Blue Light emergency stations that are visible from virtually any location on campus. If a student were to feel threatened, the blue light provides instant access to the University Police. Overall, Geneseo students are easily approachable and look out for each other if there is ever a safety concern.
Despite the frigid weather, the atmosphere at SUNY Geneseo is unparalleled with attention grabbing sunsets, rolling hills and a picturesque college town vibe. The academic program at Geneseo provides a diverse array of classes with professors who genuinely care about their students and want to see them succeed. Socially, Geneseo is in remote Western New York, but the friends I have made here helped me explore the events and places that surround SUNY Geneseo.
As a prospective student SUNY Geneseo should not fall below your radar. Whether Geneseo is your safety school or your reach dream school, the academics and overall atmosphere should not go unnoticed. For any prospective college student my first tip would be to take a variety of AP classes. I entered Geneseo with 28 transfer credits which allowed me to erase some General Education requirements and start working on my major sooner. In addition, this may allow you to add on additional minors or concentrations in the future. Rather than focusing solely on one or two subjects of AP classes, taking a variety of different subjects will help you fulfill more General Education requirements. Though many may suggest being a well-rounded student and I agree that this is important, I would emphasize the importance of dedicating your time to a few activities, extra-curriculars or volunteer experiences that you truly enjoy. Colleges, especially Geneseo, like to see what you can bring to the college. Demonstrating that you have a strong interest or knowledge base in particular areas rather than shallow interests in a variety of areas may be more desirable to certain colleges. Geneseo loves diversity! If you have an experience that can speak to your tolerance of others, your multicultural background, or your interest in others it would be a great idea to write about it for an essay. Rather than focusing your essay solely on your own personal development, try relating your experience to how you view others and why it makes you a more diverse, experienced individual. For instance, travel experiences, growing up in diverse neighborhoods, etc. Finally, if you are wait listed or are unsure about your chances of being accepted, contact the admissions office and let them know you're interested by setting up a tour. This can easily change admission decisions from maybe to accepted.
Geneseo is by no means an easy public school. Each major possesses different challenges and rigors specific to the subject. The general education classes are moderately challenging. I have never taken a class at Geneseo that I felt was a waste of time, even if it did not relate to my major. As an Early Childhood/Childhood Education Major the most challenging aspect is the time consuming nature of the major. For instance, students are required to attend off-campus field visits throughout the year at various locations. Though this has the potential to be burdensome, the field visits are exceptional learning experiences and are quite fun for a change of pace. Overall the professors in the School of Education are highly dedicated and knowledgeable. As a Human Development Concentration I have taken a variety of courses in Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology. Within the psychology department I have struggled to get to know the professors and have not always agreed with the difficulty of certain tests, but I have always learned valuable information. My sociology and anthropology classes have also been highly informative with reasonable workloads. As an Environmental Studies Minor I have absolutely loved every class I have taken. With courses available in various natural and social sciences I have found each course to be highly informative, fairly challenging and well worth the effort. The professors were dedicated and helpful. Overall, the academic rigor of Geneseo has never been unfair. It has never been a secret that students who dedicate time and effort to their studies are likely to perform well academically. Professors are generally available to students who are struggling and I have never encountered an instance where I felt the academics were unfairly challenging.
After living on campus for three years I have chosen to live on campus for a third year. The freshman dorms generally consist of Jones which is located in the heart of the campus and Onondaga which is located on South Side, a 5-10 minute walk from the academic buildings. These corridor-style buildings were great for getting to know new students, but they certainly weren't glamorous. I lived in Onondaga in a decent sized room. The dorm had its share of rowdy freshman, but the experience was well worth it. My sophomore year I lived in Allegany in a suite with five other girls. The suite style was a major upgrade from Onondaga. The closet space was much appreciated, the common room was spacious and having our own bathroom was a huge blessing! Additionally, each floor had its own kitchen area for cooking. Overall, dorm life is probably quite typical and comparable to other colleges. The RAs were generally understanding and left residents alone as long as they were reasonably quiet during quiet hours. The maintenance crew was helpful and the dorms were cleaned regularly.
Though the college has been exploring more ethnic and healthier foods, there simply is not enough variety and the dining halls are often filled with greasy, fattening meals. Unfortunately, the best food on campus is the chocolate chip cookie. As a vegetarian the options are even more limited, though Geneseo does clearly label the vegetarian options and is sure to provide at least one option for vegetarians and vegans. The meal plans are highly inflated and not worth the money. Unfortunately, if you are living on campus you are required to purchase a meal plan, so there is no avoiding the food. The layouts of the dining halls are ineffective and lead to confusing lines and large crowds. It seems that every time Geneseo remodels a dining hall the only aspect that improves is the physical look of the room rather than the food being served. The inclusion of Starbucks in the College Union was a welcomed addition for a break from Geneseo CAS food. Overall, the food takes getting used to if you are not accustomed to greasy meals, but there are certainly ways of finding healthier options if you don't mind getting sick of the same few meals.
On the weekends students generally attend parties at Frat, Sorority, or Sports houses if they know someone in the group. Otherwise students generally pregame in the dorms (which is not allowed, but it is easy to avoid being caught) and then venture to an apartment or party off-campus. The social aspect of Geneseo is probably quite comparable to other colleges, especially SUNY colleges in upstate New York. We have a cheap movie theater, a variety of restaurants off-campus, and a bowling alley. In warmer weather (which is rare) Letchworth State park is about 20 minutes from Geneseo and is a great place to go with a group of friends to barbecue, hike and hang out outside. Also, Fallbrook is a few minute drive (or you can walk if you're feeling adventurous) from campus and offers a beautiful waterfall. Rochester is a half hour drive if you are interested in a more city-like scene. In all honesty, most college students would prefer not to spend money so it is easiest to hang out with friends or attend the Late Knight events offered every weekend at the union. Though many of them are lame, there's often lots of free giveaways and they are an easy way to spend time without spending money.
As one of the top rated SUNY schools in the system (or in my opinion, the top rated), Geneseo absolutely provides an exceptional education for the price of a public college. I am continually surprised by the reputation Geneseo has made for itself when people commend me for attending the public ivy. Though small, Geneseo is widely known as an exceptional school for an even more exceptional price.
The most useful information for a new student at Geneseo would be navigating the connections between the academic buildings. In the freezing weather it will be imperative for students to know how to walk between classes using the underground passageways and overground bridges that connect Sturges, Frasier, Welles, South, and Wadsworth academic buildings.
Honestly, any student can find his or her niche at Geneseo. The reality is that although Geneseo prides itself on being a diverse school it is overwhelmingly populated by white students. As a white student myself, I cannot speak for those in the minority, but there are a variety of clubs and activities run by various religious groups and ethnic backgrounds. I have never witnessed any discrimination towards particular groups. Anyone from High School valedictorian, lacrosse bro, or video game nerd can find other like-minded peers. Those who find it difficult to fit in at Geneseo are generally not as open-minded.
Like most colleges Geneseo offers hundreds of clubs and activities for students to get involved. I have been a member of Geneseo Environmental Organization since freshman year which is well represented on campus and takes part in a variety of activities such as sustainability initiatives, trips to environmental conferences and weekly meetings. There are a variety of intramural sports for students who are not planning to play sports at a college-level, but would like to continue their sport. Geneseo has a club for everything I can think of and if they do not already have an established club students can create their own club through a rigorous (but rewarding) application process.
As someone who is not a member of Greek Life I am not particularly knowledgable. However, Greek Life is moderately prominent on campus, but never forced upon students. Unlike some schools, there is little disparity between Greek and non-Greek students. Of course, there are Greek organizations with a variety of aims, from volunteerism, major-specific, or a partying focus.
I always find this question funny because this seems like the biggest concern among parents, and the least of my concerns while at Geneseo. Though I am aware that a tragic or dangerous event can happen anywhere, Geneseo seems like the safest place in the world. It is a common occurrence for students to walk alone at night and I have never felt threatened while on campus or in the Geneseo area. In addition, Geneseo has Blue Light emergency stations that are visible from virtually any location on campus. If a student were to feel threatened, the blue light provides instant access to the University Police. Overall, Geneseo students are easily approachable and look out for each other if there is ever a safety concern.