Chase is a current senior at the State University of New York at Geneseo. He is majoring in Spanish and international relations. He specializes in various levels of Spanish tutoring. Below, he shares his experience at SUNY Geneseo:
Describe the campus setting and transportation options.
Chase: The SUNY Geneseo campus is the perfect size, neither too big nor too small. The freshman side of campus, sometimes referred to as the “south side,” is somewhat separated from the rest of the campus. However, it’s still less than a 10-minute walk to the academic buildings. The campus itself is located next to Main Street, which has restaurants and coffee shops. There is also a campus bus system that takes you around to different locations on campus, as well as to the local grocery store. A car is not necessary unless you live off campus as an upperclassman, although most off-campus living options are within walking distance of campus.
How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants?
Chase: The professors and TAs are available as much as you need them. As with any other college or university, they will not seek you out. Rather, if you need extra help or have any questions, they are a simple email away.
How would you describe the dorm life – rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students?
Chase: The dorm life situation is what you would find at any SUNY school and provides many opportunities for socialization. They recently added a new dorm, which is very modern and nice. They also recently renovated the on-campus dining hall, which has gotten much better since my freshman year. They offer gluten-free and other options for those with dietary limitations.
Which majors/programs are best represented and supported?
Chase: From my experience, Geneseo is best known for its science department, specifically physics, as well as their school of education. That is not to say that all other majors are obsolete, just that those are what the school is best known for. I, for example, double major in Spanish and international relations; I have received an excellent education for both of these concentrations. The history and political science professors were all very knowledgeable, engaging, and have superb credentials.
How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life?
Chase: It was not difficult to meet people as a freshman. Geneseo has a thriving Greek life community, which I would recommend if you enjoy meeting new people. At Geneseo, it’s really important to get involved in an organization, whether that is a fraternity, sorority, sports team, or club. Since the school itself is rather small, it’s important to be in something, which in turn facilitates the process of meeting friends.
How helpful are the Career Center and other student support services?
Chase: Geneseo has a really strong alumni base that helps current students get jobs or internships post-graduation. I have had friends who have gained employment because of a Geneseo connection.
How are the various study areas such as libraries, the student union, and dorm lounges?
Chase: There are an abundance of places to study on campus. Most academic buildings are open until 2 AM, so there is always a quiet place to study.
Describe the surrounding town.
Chase: Geneseo is basically in the middle of nowhere in upstate New York, which can be a bit of a culture shock for students coming from the downstate area. The closest big city is Rochester, which is about a half hour away. So, I would say there is not much to do outside the immediate vicinity of campus. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing, because it means that everyone will always be on or around campus, which leads to a more close-knit community.
How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes?
Chase: I believe there are currently about 5,000 undergrad students. The class sizes were one of the main reasons I chose to attend Geneseo. Obviously, introductory lecture classes and some science classes will have over 100 students per class. Aside from those classes, though, my average class size was about 20-25 students.
Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one you regret the most.
Chase: My most memorable experience with a professor was in my Latin American history class my junior year. The class was the most engaging and interesting class I have ever taken in my life. I am currently doing a directed study with that same professor.
Check out Chase’s tutoring profile.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.
