Grand Valley State University

I am a senior at gvsu and should be graduating next may 2011. Overall, I have liked it but keep in mind GVSU is not for everyone. First of all, when you start out with your freshmen year gen eds. they are really easy (some I should say) and others are b.s. but you do find your interest with them. As for my major, Accounting, I would say its around 3rd in the state, as is GV for academics, though it is comparable to MSU for regular academics (look at Princeton Review or U.S. News and World Report). As for the social scene, yes it could be better but there is more to college than getting drunk every day, if you wanna do that go to MSU or even better CMU.

Still, GV is good for those of us who like small classes and discussions with faculty. It is a combination between a large Big Ten type college and a small private college, it is a public university though. If you're looking to be taught by a graduate student at a graduate focused school (though higher reputation, people always overrate flagship universities in their respective states) then go to a Big Ten school. Also, I think GV needs to recruit more out of state and non West Michigan students (most "locals" are pretty cool though some can be close-minded, but it is good to get some diversity at any university) though they are doing that currently.

My biggest recommendation is to be involved in some sort of organization or activity outside of class. Whether it is Harry Potter Club or Greek Life it is important to be involved at GVSU in order to be part of the community. I think most people who don't like GVSU were not involved in the campus at all, and therefore complain. Also, the study abroad can be good to gain some insights on the world outside of West Michigan (I'm talking to you "locals").

Like I said overall I liked GVSU, but also GVSU has strong focuses in business, education, and health sciences/medical field. If you are not in that program, you will probably have a much different experience than myself. Just keep in mind that no college is perfect and to do your research. Furthermore, if you're out of state (I'm not but I know this) it can be cheaper to go to GV than your state flagship in state (ex. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) so make sure to check out the campus.Lastly, our sports are really good and they are free to go to, including football. GO LAKERS!!!

1st Year Female -- Class 2011

Perceived Campus Safety: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B-

4th Year Male -- Class 2010

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Individual Value: C

Honestly, I love GVSU. You get a great education, the mixture of a big school but small classes, and everyone is great. Furthermore, the people complaining about a lack of social life are only those who want to party every day. You know what? I'm glad GVSU isn't like that. If that's what you want, you can walk about a quarter mile away from campus to the off-campus apartments (the Village at 48, for instance) and you'll find what you're looking for. I have something fun to do every single day; it's a matter of getting involved and not sitting in your room complaining the entire time. My classes have been great, my professors have been great, and my classmates have been great. I love living on campus. The lowest grade I gave GVSU is for surrounding city. Allendale is pretty lame, but the bus goes to Grand Rapids and connects with the Grand Rapids bus system--there's ALWAYS something to do in GR... not that I've had to leave campus to have fun.

1st Year Female -- Class 2012

Perceived Campus Safety: A+, Surrounding City: B-