Jacksonville State University

Date: Jun 24 2010
Major: Unknown (This Major's Salary over time)
JSU wasn't even on my radar screen when I started looking at colleges. Coming from GA, I felt my choices were somewhat limited to Ga. Southern, Valdosta, Columbus, and W. Ga. UGA was out of the question since I ONLY had a 3.6 GPA with some Honors classes. I can't believe I was deferred at UGA- and UGA ain't all that.

On my band director's advice, I looked at JSU. I had seen the Marching Southerners at BOA Atlanta, and thought they were phenomenal, but honestly thought JSU was out of the question since it was out of state. But you can get in-state if you do what's required.

Let me tell you- this was the best decision that my parents and I ever made! JSU is now what I peoudly call me home. We have most of the same stuff you have at other major huge Universities, and you don't get lost in the shuffle. Professors care about you, and the students are great. There's something for everybody here. The best freakin' band in the Nation, some good Greek organizations (some,not all, so from what I've heard, be selective if you go Greek), and such a family atmosphere. And you don't have the miserable traffic you have in Atlanta or Athens.

On first look, there was alot about the campus I didn't like. Some aging buildings. But in the 2 years since I was a HS senior, they have refurbished some of the dorms, the stadium expansion & new dorm are incredible! But you know, living in a so-so dorm is part of the freshman experience you don't want to miss. I have professors that give out their home and cell numbers- I was knocked over by that! You can call some on weekends or nights and make arrangements for meetings- how cool is that? I have friends at UGA that say their teachers don't even show up for office hours! Not here. If you put in the effort, your teachers will do the same. They get to know you as a person here.

And the town, while you might think it's rinkydink, everything you pretty much need is here. I can go home to Atlanta on weekends if I want, but frankly don't really care to much. I have been hanging with high school friends who went to Ga schools like UGA, and they are paying like 700 bucks for parking, having to move their cars on football days, and crap like that. I don't have that problem here. They treat you like a human being here.

The freshman orientation was so impressive! I knew right then I was coming to the right place. The Admissions staff and everybody without exception here is the best you will find anywhere. I am back home in Atlanta for the summer, and am miserable- I can't wait to get back to Jacksonville for band camp!