New York State public university experiences?

I've heard a lot about SUNY schools but would like to get more firsthand perspectives. Can anyone who's attended a public university in New York State share their experience? How competitive are the programs and what's the general campus atmosphere like?

I've had the chance to speak with many students who have attended various SUNY schools, and the consensus is that experiences can vary greatly depending on which campus you choose. That said, some aspects are common across most SUNY schools.

Academic competitiveness: Generally, SUNY schools offer a wide range of programs and majors, with varying levels of competitiveness. For instance, SUNY Binghamton and SUNY Stony Brook are known for their strong STEM programs, which can be quite competitive. SUNY Buffalo has a reputed engineering program as well. SUNY schools also offer comprehensive liberal arts programs, with campuses like SUNY Geneseo and SUNY New Paltz being particularly renowned for their humanities and social sciences departments. Overall, the competitiveness of a program will depend on its popularity and the specific campus you are considering.

Campus atmospheres: Just like with competitiveness, the campus atmospheres at SUNY schools can differ quite a bit. Some campuses are situated in more urban settings, such as SUNY Buffalo and SUNY Albany, which can provide a bustling environment with ample opportunities for internships, networking, and exploring local culture. Other campuses, like SUNY Plattsburgh or SUNY Oswego, are located in more rural or suburban areas, and typically have a more tight-knit campus community with most of the social life happening on campus.

Student life and extracurriculars: From what I've gathered, most SUNY schools have active student communities with numerous clubs and organizations catering to a wide range of interests. Sports and Greek life tend to be more popular on some campuses than on others. For example, campuses like SUNY Buffalo and SUNY Cortland have thriving sports scenes, while campuses such as SUNY Geneseo and SUNY New Paltz have a mix of academic, cultural, and special interest clubs. You're likely to find something that suits your interests on any SUNY campus.

Affordability: Many students choose SUNY schools for their more affordable tuition rates compared to private institutions. Additionally, New York State residents have access to financial aid opportunities, such as the Excelsior Scholarship, which can make attending a SUNY school even more affordable depending on your family's income and eligibility.

Overall, it's essential to research each SUNY campus you're interested in and visit them if possible to determine the best fit for your academic and personal needs. Public universities in New York can offer diverse opportunities and experiences, so it's crucial to find one that aligns with your goals and preferences.