Reviews

Despite the frigid weather, the atmosphere at SUNY Geneseo is unparalleled with attention grabbing sunsets, rolling hills and a picturesque college town vibe. The academic program at Geneseo provides a diverse array of classes with professors who genuinely care about their students and want to see them succeed. Socially, Geneseo is in remote Western New York, but the friends I have made here helped me explore the events and places that surround SUNY Geneseo.

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.

Geneseo is by no means an easy public school. Each major possesses different challenges and rigors specific to the subject. The general education classes are moderately challenging. I have never taken a class at Geneseo that I felt was a waste of time, even if it did not relate to my major.

As an Early Childhood/Childhood Education Major the most challenging aspect is the time consuming nature of the major. For instance, students are required to attend off-campus field visits throughout the year at various locations. Though this has the potential to be burdensome, the field visits are exceptional learning experiences and are quite fun for a change of pace. Overall the professors in the School of Education are highly dedicated and knowledgeable.

As a Human Development Concentration I have taken a variety of courses in Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology. Within the psychology department I have struggled to get to know the professors and have not always agreed with the difficulty of certain tests, but I have always learned valuable information. My sociology and anthropology classes have also been highly informative with reasonable workloads.

As an Environmental Studies Minor I have absolutely loved every class I have taken. With courses available in various natural and social sciences I have found each course to be highly informative, fairly challenging and well worth the effort. The professors were dedicated and helpful.

Overall, the academic rigor of Geneseo has never been unfair. It has never been a secret that students who dedicate time and effort to their studies are likely to perform well academically. Professors are generally available to students who are struggling and I have never encountered an instance where I felt the academics were unfairly challenging.

After living on campus for three years I have chosen to live on campus for a third year. The freshman dorms generally consist of Jones which is located in the heart of the campus and Onondaga which is located on South Side, a 5-10 minute walk from the academic buildings. These corridor-style buildings were great for getting to know new students, but they certainly weren't glamorous. I lived in Onondaga in a decent sized room. The dorm had its share of rowdy freshman, but the experience was well worth it.

My sophomore year I lived in Allegany in a suite with five other girls. The suite style was a major upgrade from Onondaga. The closet space was much appreciated, the common room was spacious and having our own bathroom was a huge blessing! Additionally, each floor had its own kitchen area for cooking.

Overall, dorm life is probably quite typical and comparable to other colleges. The RAs were generally understanding and left residents alone as long as they were reasonably quiet during quiet hours. The maintenance crew was helpful and the dorms were cleaned regularly.

Though the college has been exploring more ethnic and healthier foods, there simply is not enough variety and the dining halls are often filled with greasy, fattening meals. Unfortunately, the best food on campus is the chocolate chip cookie.

As a vegetarian the options are even more limited, though Geneseo does clearly label the vegetarian options and is sure to provide at least one option for vegetarians and vegans.

The meal plans are highly inflated and not worth the money. Unfortunately, if you are living on campus you are required to purchase a meal plan, so there is no avoiding the food.

The layouts of the dining halls are ineffective and lead to confusing lines and large crowds. It seems that every time Geneseo remodels a dining hall the only aspect that improves is the physical look of the room rather than the food being served. The inclusion of Starbucks in the College Union was a welcomed addition for a break from Geneseo CAS food.

Overall, the food takes getting used to if you are not accustomed to greasy meals, but there are certainly ways of finding healthier options if you don't mind getting sick of the same few meals.

On the weekends students generally attend parties at Frat, Sorority, or Sports houses if they know someone in the group. Otherwise students generally pregame in the dorms (which is not allowed, but it is easy to avoid being caught) and then venture to an apartment or party off-campus.

The social aspect of Geneseo is probably quite comparable to other colleges, especially SUNY colleges in upstate New York. We have a cheap movie theater, a variety of restaurants off-campus, and a bowling alley.

In warmer weather (which is rare) Letchworth State park is about 20 minutes from Geneseo and is a great place to go with a group of friends to barbecue, hike and hang out outside. Also, Fallbrook is a few minute drive (or you can walk if you're feeling adventurous) from campus and offers a beautiful waterfall.

Rochester is a half hour drive if you are interested in a more city-like scene.

In all honesty, most college students would prefer not to spend money so it is easiest to hang out with friends or attend the Late Knight events offered every weekend at the union. Though many of them are lame, there's often lots of free giveaways and they are an easy way to spend time without spending money.

As one of the top rated SUNY schools in the system (or in my opinion, the top rated), Geneseo absolutely provides an exceptional education for the price of a public college. I am continually surprised by the reputation Geneseo has made for itself when people commend me for attending the public ivy. Though small, Geneseo is widely known as an exceptional school for an even more exceptional price.

The most useful information for a new student at Geneseo would be navigating the connections between the academic buildings. In the freezing weather it will be imperative for students to know how to walk between classes using the underground passageways and overground bridges that connect Sturges, Frasier, Welles, South, and Wadsworth academic buildings.

Honestly, any student can find his or her niche at Geneseo. The reality is that although Geneseo prides itself on being a diverse school it is overwhelmingly populated by white students. As a white student myself, I cannot speak for those in the minority, but there are a variety of clubs and activities run by various religious groups and ethnic backgrounds. I have never witnessed any discrimination towards particular groups. Anyone from High School valedictorian, lacrosse bro, or video game nerd can find other like-minded peers. Those who find it difficult to fit in at Geneseo are generally not as open-minded.

Like most colleges Geneseo offers hundreds of clubs and activities for students to get involved. I have been a member of Geneseo Environmental Organization since freshman year which is well represented on campus and takes part in a variety of activities such as sustainability initiatives, trips to environmental conferences and weekly meetings.

There are a variety of intramural sports for students who are not planning to play sports at a college-level, but would like to continue their sport.

Geneseo has a club for everything I can think of and if they do not already have an established club students can create their own club through a rigorous (but rewarding) application process.

As someone who is not a member of Greek Life I am not particularly knowledgable. However, Greek Life is moderately prominent on campus, but never forced upon students. Unlike some schools, there is little disparity between Greek and non-Greek students.

Of course, there are Greek organizations with a variety of aims, from volunteerism, major-specific, or a partying focus.

I always find this question funny because this seems like the biggest concern among parents, and the least of my concerns while at Geneseo. Though I am aware that a tragic or dangerous event can happen anywhere, Geneseo seems like the safest place in the world. It is a common occurrence for students to walk alone at night and I have never felt threatened while on campus or in the Geneseo area. In addition, Geneseo has Blue Light emergency stations that are visible from virtually any location on campus. If a student were to feel threatened, the blue light provides instant access to the University Police. Overall, Geneseo students are easily approachable and look out for each other if there is ever a safety concern.

I have found that my professors are very helpful and I am learning so much more than I did in high school. i can go to office hours whenever and the professors are willing to help me. The classes are challenging but manageable. Typically, many classes, especially upper-level classes, involve imaginative projects and papers and I am extremely happy that I made the decision to come here.

I am definitely enjoying being here. There are many clubs and activities to keep me busy when I'm at college. In the year and a half I have been at Geneseo, I have participated in activities including club field hockey, broomball (so much fun), colleges against cancer and the one-of-a-kind GOLD leadership program. I always look forward to coming back to school after breaks.

Geneseo is definitely affordable for students that wouldn't be able to attend a more expensive, private college. It is a great education for an affordable price. There are also many scholarships that students can apply for through Geneseo.

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!

Geneseo is perfect for students who don't mind hard work but like to have fun as well. Geneseo students spend a lot of time studying but don't let that intimidate you because the college plans activities at the students union most weekends. Past events have included comedians, hypnotists and square dancing!

Geneseo accepts a lot of academically successful students and education is superb. Geneseo is a liberal arts school so aside from picking from one of many diverse majors, there is a general education requirement. Thus, Geneseo students have an intensive learning program for their major, but also are required to take classes in almost every field of education making them more well rounded. Classes are challenging, but the professors really prepare you for the real world and many classes change the way you think about life in general. It is very common for students to continue discussions from in class even after the class is over and they are walking back to the dorms. Geneseo is also unique in that class sizes are very small and relationships with other students and professors is very easy to do. For mainly freshman one or two classes may have about a hundred students, but by the second week if one were to raise their hand the professor would be able to call on them by name. The professors are dedicated to their students and are always there for advice and support in class and outside of class.

Geneseo is great in that there is a place for everyone. Geneseo is the type of school where by the end of the first break in October, freshmen tell their parents they cannot wait to go back home. School is part of everyday life but it is the things that happen outside of class that make the experience. There are so many opportunities to make friends and find something to do on campus every day. There's a lot of good options for food, the residence halls are really nice to live in and the dorms themselves are nicely sized. The campus is small enough that walking to class isn't a big deal and if walking isn't your thing then the public transportation is really accommodating to most people's class schedules. Every aspect of Geneseo life can be praised, the only downside is the weather. But that is upstate New York, and nothing a good winter coat can't fix.

Geneseo is one of the few schools that one can receive a stellar education to rival small liberal arts colleges for the price of a public state school. Geneseo has produced a lot of distinguished alumni and an education and experience from here as a whole is priceless. So to be able to receive all of that for such a low cost gives it great value.

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.

Geneseo is great for students who really care about receiving a great education, but also like to get involved in things going on around campus. People in Geneseo have so many diverse interests, so really anyone will fit in and enjoy the Geneseo experience.

this place has an amazing view. feels like you are on the country side. I love it here.

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

academics here is tough. if you never studied a day in your life (like me), you are going to learn to study once you get here.

it depends on where you live. each place has its benefits and downs.

food is good here 80% of the time.

when I do go out, if you are a good student this will be rare , I hang out with my team mates

students hat like to be challenge, are big on hockey, like to work out

literally we have almost any club you can think of

Greek life is good, but can get loud on bid weekend

university police do not play but they are cool people

Geneseo is a small college with excellent academics. It is a SUNY school, thus funded by New York State. It has a very strong, wealthy alumni base.

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

Geneseo is considered Public Ivy for a reason. This is the hardest SUNY school to get into and has a applicant pool of some of the most well-rounded nerdy people I have ever met. It's an Ivy for the Middle Class.

Geneseo is a college town, so the dorm life IS the life. Most live on campus and there is always an event going on.

The food at Geneseo is average to most SUNY schools. Fried this and that but you can always find ethnic and healthy options if you look.

Broomball! You have to know someone in Genny to understand. It's a Geneseo sport.

Geneseo is definitely one of the best colleges are your money. It's a SUNY school so the price is kept down and the academics are excellent.

Geneseo is for the social and unsocial nerds. Really any sort of intelligent nerdy dork is more than welcomed.

In Geneseo, there is a club for everything (somme official, some not). You just have to look hard enough.

The Greek life is prevalent. You'll see that mark of the Greeks everyday, on the Greek Tree in Central Geneseo.

New York State has given SUNY Geneseo a large grant for campus safety. There is more police than they know what to do with. Definitely a safe campus.

Geneseo is a great school academically.
Geneseo challenges students to be the best they can.
Geneseo has an incredible sense of community.

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.

Very hard and professors are very strict. They want their students to achieve great things.

Good dorms. Good size. Very clean.

Nothing will ever compare to moms homemade cooking but the food here is pretty good once you find your favorite places on campus.

Hang out with friends. Go to movies/out to dinner. Parties. Clubs. Organized activities by the college.

Best SUNY and you can't beat the price

Clock tower plays recent hits on the radio on its bell. LOVE

hard working and dedicated to their studies as well as others and the communities that surround them

Not a lot, but enough

Geneseo is a beautiful school to behold. Geneseo is peaceful, the people are friendly, and warm. Geneseo is a college that will challenge you but make you feel successful and victorious once you have given your all and worked your hardest to overcome whatever obstacles you face.

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.

At Geneseo, you study and sometimes you don't get the grade that you believe you worked for, thus, encouraging you to work and study even harder. At this school your best means going above and beyond what you think is your best.

I lived in a dorm, however it was suite style so I did not have to share certain facilities with a lot of students. Nonetheless, from what my friends have experienced, I have come to find that the students in the dorms are very friendly, they leave their doors open so that they can socialize and not seem secluded from everyone else.

The food has changed over the years, but the food organizations are working to bring more diversity and variety in the types of foods that are made. The campus ensures that they have fat free options, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. Geneseo tries to cater to everyone's food preference. The dining halls are open relatively late, so if students need a late night snack or meal at 11, they have locations to go to on campus. Starbucks is also a major hit for students, because the environment is quiet and a snack or drink can be purchased in convenience.

If students do not have anything planned for the night, on weekends in particular, they can attend the movies, go bowling or participate in various interesting activities that are held by GLK or Geneseo Late Knight. There are dance parties on campus that are of no charge to the students and these parties occur in the Knightspot which is a small club-like venu. There are dinners and shows prepared by the campus cultural clubs as well as dance and music shows in the auditoriums.

For those that are old enough to drink, there are three main bars that students attend but the end result of the night is going to the IB. The IB is a bar/club in which many students as well as town dwellers come to dance and hear the latest tunes.

There are over five cultural clubs, several dance clubs, sports and gaming clubs. Joining or a couple of these clubs is a great way to get involved, make friends, build your resume, leadership and enjoy your college experience.

University Police is always on patrol and when you call them they come in a timely fashion. There are other organizations that are there to aid the University Police if a student is injured or intoxicated.

While attending SUNY Geneseo I have had the fantastic opportunity to study everything that I love. I am a Math and Spanish double major with a certification in Adolescent Education as well as a Coaching certification. The academics here at Geneseo are of a high caliber and really challenge each and every student who attends the college.

I originally did not want to look at SUNY Geneseo because I did not believe that a public school could be as fantastic as Geneseo truly is. After visiting and attending this college for the past two and a half years, I have to say this is one of the most amazing places you could ever come to. It is really welcoming to everyone, but more importantly everyone is nice here. It is rare for you to find someone who his mean or does not want to help you in any way possible.

SUNY Geneseo is nationally noted for being one of the best Bang for your Buck. If you are a resident of New York State, you can end up going to college for less than other college students pay for one year. Similarly for out-of-state students, the tuition is very reasonable. Considering the high standard of academics that you are receiving at SUNY Geneseo, I fully support the fact that it is one of the Best Bang for your Buck out there.

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.

SUNY Geneseo is really great for any type of student. Having a student population of around 5,000, there is a group for everyone. There are multiple varsity athletic teams, club teams, sororities, fraternities, and clubs that anyone can join--and with over 150 organizations on campus it is nearly impossible to not find somewhere you fit.