Syracuse University

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY, USA
Private
4 Year

Joshua's Review

Review of Syracuse University

from Plymouth Meeting, PA

Describe your college in three sentences.

My first semester at SU was an extremely positive experience. Classes were challenging but I was able to jump right into my major right away, so it didn't feel like work. Socially, there seems to be a group for everyone.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

The University and college in general is what you make it! Throughout my entire college search I never had that legendary feeling of the perfect fit when I walked on campus. When I got there, I adapted by actively seizing opportunities and making a place for myself, and I am beyond happy. Also, I was given the best piece of advice by a professor at SU during my search: find the school that has the *people* who will make you the best you can be. Academic programs are comparable, but the people at each school will not be.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

Throughout my first semester I was consistently challenged. I don't feel I was ever bored by my work, and I learned something new with almost every project I did.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

I live on a floor specifically designated to have stricter no-drug/alcohol policies. Other than providing me a nice group of people to know because I don't party much myself, my floor is cleaner and more peaceful than others. I hear from friends that some of the dorms can have unwanted smells wafting through the halls, but in general, I haven't heard anything extraordinarily bad.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

It could definitely be a lot worse! The food is pretty good, and a lot of options are given.

What’s there to do for fun at your college?

SU has a fair amount of school-sponsored events happening on campus. For example, on the weekends the student union shows free movies. There are plenty of free student concerts to go to, and there are A Cappella group shows every few weeks. There are also things to do in the city: there is a downtown area with a handful of restaurants and shops, and it has a museum too. Most of the fun though, comes from having a group of friends, so getting involved in things and finding a social group is important.

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

SU is expensive, there's no doubt about that. But, I enrolled at SU knowing I would have loans to repay, and so far, I've been very happy at SU. The people are fantastic and the course are constantly teaching me new things. Going into a animation as a career, I find the staff try to provide an accurate picture of how the field will be when I leave. The opportunities to learn have been invaluable.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Ask anyone and they'll tell you to try Dome-stomping. Stand in between two of the big ridges that form the outside wall of the Carrier Dome and jump up and stomp on the ground. Marshall Street, which borders campus, has great places to eat. The Oakwood Cemetery is also a beautiful place to check out that borders campus.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Extroverts. The campus community is inclusive and socially active. It wouldn't be a good fit for someone who wants to stay to themselves. Also, it is good for motivated students. It's too easy to fade into the large group of students.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

There seems to be something for everyone! As a musician, I'm happy at how many musical ensembles there are for non-music majors to join, and they're all fantastic. The First Year Players is another opportunity that drew me to SU.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

I'm not personally interested in Greek Life, but from what I have seen, it is a prominent presence on campus and there are plenty of options to those interested.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

I have been fine. There have been a few reports of robberies this past semester, but most if not all have been off-campus. There are emergency blue-lights stationed around campus. From what I understand, the Department of Public Safety has been less active this year than in past school years. DPS provides escorts home if a student feels unsafe, however, they're not too quick to get to where the student is. But, as long as you don't go wandering off campus late at night, stick to well-lit areas, and just be smart in general, you'll be fine.