Syracuse University

Date: Dec 17 2010
Major: Other (This Major's Salary over time)
Syracuse University is the complete and total package of an incredible, enriching, and fun college experience. Honestly, I wouldn't rather be anywhere else, and you could say I'm quite fond of this school. To put it simply, you work hard and you play hard here at Syracuse. It's a win win. I'll break it down for you briefly.

Academics: The classes you get at Syracuse are ones that will truly make you think, and trust me, you'll enjoy learning for once. It can be challenging, but you will feel SO accomplished after all the work you put into it. The professors are the key to a good class. One of mine set up a class in which there were no tests, no papers, just "experiences". You come to class, learn from the professor, and present material that you find interesting and is connected to the subject. At Syracuse there are so many differently structured and enjoyable learning environments.

You also become close with your professors. I had another professor who closed down the popular waffle & coffee shop "Funk N Waffles" for our class to come in after we finished our final projects. We relaxed, chatted and showed our work on a projector she set up in the shop.

Sports: Okay, you really don't have to love sports if you want to go here. Yes, it's a huge presence on campus, but if you're not into it, no one is going to pick on ya for it. It's a TON of fun though, basketball is insane and you definitely get bragging rights. Oh and you'll most likely get on TV at some point if you go to the games. Fun stuff.

On the rich/preppy stereotype: NO, you don't have to fit that mold. In fact, I've never come across anyone who has judged another for their financial situation. It's college, we're all pretty much broke. The few that have money to burn and are sure to let people know, well I've never had to come in contact with them/don't really give a you know what. Leggings and uggs look dumb anyways and everyone knows that.

Weather: Going to break yet another stereotype: you become depressed, get hypothermia, and ultimately die because of the weather. Lies. I went through almost 2 weeks of straight snow and was completely fine. If you find yourself to be a generally happy person, the greyness will not make you depressed. The livelihood of the campus is enough to keep you sane if that kind of weather really puts a damper on your mood. Plus, sledding down hills on Crouse, for example, and having snow ball fights can make you feel like a kid again.

Parties/Social Life: You don't have to be a huge partier to go here, but let me just say students at Syracuse do not joke around when it comes to parties. Greek life is huge, but I'll be the first to say the frat parties are the worst parties I've been to. They consist of a bunch of desperate freshmen girls and a couple of gross frat brothers. The real parties are on Euclid/the streets off of Euclid. That's the place to be. Guys, you don't have to have a ratio to get in, just a couple of bucks sometimes. For girls, it's usually free. I've had some of the best times at these parties and some crazy stories to tell. South campus parties are not too bad, better than the frats. And lastly, if you're not into partying, there is a social life for you too. I know plenty of people who choose not to drink/party and find themselves a great time on the weekends.

Surrounding city: You may feel like you're trapped in a bubble if you stay on campus at Syracuse. And you may feel inclined to do so with the reputation that the city has. However, I believe you should take advantage of going off campus. There are some really nice parts of the city, such as Armory Square. It has great food, an ice skating rink, and tons of stores. There's also the giant mall that everyone goes to.

So, I'm probably skipping a lot of things I'd like to say about this school but it really just doesn't end. I love it so much here and everyone I know does as well.