Admissions

As a prospective student SUNY Geneseo should not fall below your radar. Whether Geneseo is your safety school or your reach dream school, the academics and overall atmosphere should not go unnoticed. For any prospective college student my first tip would be to take a variety of AP classes. I entered Geneseo with 28 transfer credits which allowed me to erase some General Education requirements and start working on my major sooner. In addition, this may allow you to add on additional minors or concentrations in the future. Rather than focusing solely on one or two subjects of AP classes, taking a variety of different subjects will help you fulfill more General Education requirements.

Though many may suggest being a well-rounded student and I agree that this is important, I would emphasize the importance of dedicating your time to a few activities, extra-curriculars or volunteer experiences that you truly enjoy. Colleges, especially Geneseo, like to see what you can bring to the college. Demonstrating that you have a strong interest or knowledge base in particular areas rather than shallow interests in a variety of areas may be more desirable to certain colleges.

Geneseo loves diversity! If you have an experience that can speak to your tolerance of others, your multicultural background, or your interest in others it would be a great idea to write about it for an essay. Rather than focusing your essay solely on your own personal development, try relating your experience to how you view others and why it makes you a more diverse, experienced individual. For instance, travel experiences, growing up in diverse neighborhoods, etc.

Finally, if you are wait listed or are unsure about your chances of being accepted, contact the admissions office and let them know you're interested by setting up a tour. This can easily change admission decisions from maybe to accepted.

Try your best in high school classes. Geneseo accepts most AP credits as long as students score at least a 4 on the exam. SAT scores are important so definitely prepare for the SAT and take it again if you aren't satisfied with your score. Also, be involved in clubs in high school and be in a leadership position in clubs. In addition, visit the college if you are interested and contact an admissions counselor. Making contacts is key!

Really have a well rounded resume. Test scores and a high GPA are very important because Geneseo holds its students to high standards, however grades alone are not a guarantee to get in. Geneseo is filled with students who have diverse interests so join a lot of clubs and sports. Also have community service and work experience or any combination of those and demonstrate leadership and dedication to whatever you are passionate about.

make sure you have good grades and qualities that make you unique.

Fill out you FAFSA and TAP early. Thats about all the aid you're going to get at a SUNY school.

Be yourself and don't be afraid to try something new in college! Everyone is friendly! And always remember that school work here is a PRIORITY, don't get too caught up in the party scene.

Ensure that Geneseo has what you are looking for or need academically, financially and socially. The students can be competitive depending on your major but are always willing to work together to achieve excellence. If you want to be in an environment that is both peaceful as well as lively, then this is a great school to attend. The professors and advisors are great sources, but you have to make the effort and take a little initiative to get their help. Build relationships with faculty, students and staff as soon as you walk on campus. It will help in the long run.

As for tips for prospective students, I would have to tell everyone who is thinking about coming to SUNY Geneseo to not be afraid to get involved. Put yourself out there and really try new things because that is how you meet new people. I would also have to advise future Geneseo students that they should really think long and hard about what they are going to major in. It is not necessarily always the best idea to major in something you are good at because eventually you will get bored with it. It is more important to major in something you love, because then you will enjoy it for the rest of your life.