What's the college experience like in Harrisburg, PA?

Hey everyone! I'm a junior and starting to look into colleges. I noticed that there are a few colleges in Harrisburg, PA. Can anyone who has attended or knows about these schools share their experience? Are there good internship opportunities? What's the social scene like?

Hello! Harrisburg, PA, is home to a few colleges like Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, Penn State Harrisburg, and Messiah University. Here's some information on what the college experience is like in Harrisburg, as well as the internship and social scene:

1. Internship opportunities: Harrisburg, being the state capital, offers some excellent internship opportunities. The city houses various government agencies, non-profit organizations, and businesses, providing students with a good variety of internships across different fields. Additionally, the proximity to larger cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore can potentially open up more opportunities for internships and networking during summer breaks.

2. Social scene: The social scene in Harrisburg is a mix of the campuses themselves and the surrounding city. Each college has its own student-led clubs and organizations, so you'll find a range of social activities on-campus. Harrisburg itself offers a mix of cultural attractions, music venues, and restaurants for college students to enjoy. The Riverfront Park area is quite popular, providing accessible green space and hosting events like outdoor concerts and food festivals. While Harrisburg may not have the same bustling atmosphere as larger cities, it does provide a quieter, more community-focused environment.

3. Campus life: Each college in Harrisburg has its unique campus culture. Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is a smaller institution focused on STEM fields, offering a close-knit community feel. Penn State Harrisburg has the resources of a large university but provides more personalized academic attention as a smaller campus. Messiah University is a private Christian institution, which might be appealing if you're looking for a faith-based community.

4. Surrounding area: Harrisburg has a lot to offer in terms of outdoor activities. The city is located near the Susquehanna River, perfect for hiking, kayaking, or picnics. It's also close to the mountains, providing opportunities for skiing or snowboarding in the winter months. Additionally, Hershey (known for the famous chocolate company) is not far away, where you can visit amusement parks like Hershey Park.

To get a better sense of the college experience at each specific school, it's a good idea to look into campus visits or virtual tours that allow prospective students to ask questions or learn more about the campus culture, internship opportunities, and social scene in Harrisburg.