Fort Valley State University

Date: Dec 20 2003
Major: Math (This Major's Salary over time)
FVSU is a great school for a first time freshman away from home (on a permanent basis) for the first time. You are welcomed by faculty, staff, students, and alumni. FVSU is a has a family atmosphere. When you walk to class, you will speak to atleast five people on your way there. Get to know as many people as you can. That is what college is about; getting to know others, learning new ideas, and expanding your horizons. By meeting new people you learn new ideas, cultures, and more about yourself. You learn from others how to better yourself and become that successful college student and eventually that successful career person.

Some people look at FVSU as a party school. I'm here to tell you, if you major in a science, math, or computer science, FVSU will not be a party school. I took atleast 18 hours every semester as a Math major, but I managed my time wisely. I found time to do homework, study, tutor other students, and go out to the club or a date every weekend (Thursday-Saturday). I also had a part-time weekend job. Its what you make of it. If you do nothing but sit in the student center all day, and not go to class, then it is a party school.

A lot of people look at FVSU as a last resort. Why? I don't know. It has an excellent faculty and staff. FVSU has one of the best science departments (lots of pre-med students who go on to do bigger and better things), one of the best computer science departments (highly skilled professors), and one of the best math departments (students go on to become successful engineers).

The faculty can be very helpful. I would say 95% of the faculty is approachable and are willing to help you. Getting to know your professors and getting them to know you, can be beneficial in the end. It could change that 88 to a 90. It could get you a departmental award or a good letter of recommendation.

Our new president is striving to make the university better. In the two years he has been there, I have seen some changes and improvements. He is working on the housing situtation, which happens to be one of the negative sides to FVSU. The housing is poor, but the experiences and people you will encounter while living in the dorms are priceless.

There are lots of extracurricular activities. Get involoved in atleast one organization that deals with your major. Try to get in the Student Government Association..they play a part in policies and events at the school. I felt very useful in that organization. If you are atheletic, we have every sport, except baseball. Our softball team, track team, mens' tennis team, and girls' basketball team all won the SIAC conference championships this year (2003). There is a little something for everyone. Get involved. You meet new people, staff, visit places, and learn sooooo much. It also keeps you busy, and out of trouble.

Speaking of trouble, as a first-time freshman, you are fresh meat. Stay away from older greeks (men especially, who will try to take advantage of you). The most important advice I can give you is stay true to yourself. Don't forget the values and morals that you learned at home. Be ladies and gentleman, carry yourslef in that way and you will be respected and treated in that way.

In conclusion, FVSU is a great school with high academic achievments waiting for you and a friendly student body and staff waiting to help you. I love my school!!!!!!