What is Georgia State University like?

Question

I've been looking into alternatives to U. of Georgia since i dont think ill get into there (3.4 GPA w/ honors/ap classes and 1200 SAT), so I've looked into this mysterious "Third" big research university in Georgia, Georgia State University. ( I dont want to go to Tech either, i have even less a chance there than at UGA)

Anyway from what I've seen, GA State is a research university in the heart of downtown Atlanta. It has some housing (the 1.5 mile away GSU village) and a few other buildings witha whooping 4,500 rooms. But Im worried.

If i dont go to UGA, I may end of going to GA State. What is it like here? Is it a prestigious school? Will I meet other people like me (frat Abercrombie/Pacsun athlete/party-studying balancing but doesnt play D1 sports or quite play a violin guys/girls)? Is there a cool social scene? Is it a good school for a Biology/Pre-Dentistry degree?

Any suggestions of any other large (15k+), public, prestigious U's, in the south, I'd like them.

Answer 1

Georgia State is okay, depending on what you're looking for. You don't really get the "campus" feel because the dorms are so far away and it's mostly a commuter school. It's also in the heart of downtown Atlanta, so it almost feels like you're at work instead of at school. There's also a lot of walking involved since the campus's buildings are located in a few different areas downtown. GA State is a great research school, so if you're interested in biology, I'd definetely recommend it. And the in-state tuition is pretty reasonable (if you don't have a scholarship). As far as the social life, I'm not so eager to boast about it. It's VERY diverse with over 30,000 students. If possible, you should visit the campus just to get a general feel and to see if you can picture yourself in the middle of it all. Visit during the week while the campus is full of students. Visiting on the weekends won't do justice. And speak to current students there - they'll tell you whatever you want to know. Also visit the biology department. Learn as much as you can about all schools before you apply and/or enroll - it's a huge investment that shouldn't be taken lightly. Good luck!

Answer 2

GSU is going to be tough for you if you are looking for any sort of campus community, but it is a really great school. It sounds like Georgia Southern might be a little more up your alley.