San Diego State University

I would like to attend SDSU because of its solid academic programs, diverse student community, and rich campus life. I am interested in studying criminal justice, and therefore SDSU’s School of Public Affairs is particularly appealing to me, as it is recognized for its focus on extensive research opportunities and connections to law enforcement organizations. I appreciate that these areas of study align with my ambition to make an impact in the legal system and the degree to which the program focuses on areas of study such as policy analysis and criminology and justice reform. Aside from academics, I am motivated by SDSU’s diverse and inclusive environment, which is consistent with my identity as a first-generation student, and with a community that supports students from a variety of backgrounds. I value SDSU’s focus and emphasis on student success. Furthermore, I am quite enthusiastic about the opportunity to partake in the clubs and student organizations and networking that are offered as part of campus life at SDSU as a way to help me grow personally and professionally. The unique urban and coastal setting of San Diego as a university setting also provides opportunities for learning and internships in the professional realm of criminal justice. In conclusion, I think that SDSU has strong academics, a passionate community, and the energy of a campus that will allow me to the educational and professional aspirations I hope to achieve.

San Diego State University is a vibrant and diverse campus with plenty of opportunities for students to stay active through clubs, sports, and campus events. Every Thursday, a farmers market sets up for the day, bringing students together to explore different foods and meet new people. For a quieter setting, the turtle pond located to the left of the main walkway, is a peaceful spot where students can study, chat with friends, and admire the turtles and koi fish. The Conrad Prebys Student Union serves as a hub for political protests, dance showcases, and club fairs. Walking through during these events creates a lively atmosphere that help students feel connected. My friends and I often stop by the student union when we have extra time just to see what’s happening. As a commuter, I haven't experienced SDSU housing firsthand, but I’ve heard mixed reviews from fellow students. In my first year, students in some dorms complained about mold, while those in newer buildings loved their living arrangements. In my opinion, it all depended on each students housing placement. Dining options are diverse, offering everything from vegan meals to protein-packed dishes, with fast food readily available. However, meal plans can be expensive depending on the chosen plan. Overall, SDSU has given me a dynamic and enriching college experience as a first-generation commuter student. The opportunities and memories I’ve made will always be special, and I hope to share similar experiences with my younger brother when he joins in the fall.

San Diego State University (SDSU) is a solid choice, especially if you're looking for a strong academic program combined with a vibrant campus life. It's well-regarded for programs in business, engineering, psychology, and international relations, among others. Given your background—crossing the border daily for school and sports—SDSU could be a great option because of its strong connections with the San Diego-Tijuana region, its diverse student body, and opportunities for bilingual and cross-border professionals. The campus is also known for its school spirit, sports culture, and research opportunities. Plus, the weather in San Diego is amazing year-round. It’s not as prestigious as UC San Diego, but it offers a solid education at a more affordable price (especially for California residents).

San Diego State University has allowed for me find my potential and turn my dreams into my reality and career. In 2023 I started my very own business and with the help of SDSU I have been able to grow and expand my sales. I was fortunate enough to have shared my idea with Aztec Shops and I was granted with a partnership at the weekly farmers market on campus. As a student this support truly means the world to me. Through this I have been able to grow both physically and mentally. In the month of October 2024, I was selected a Hispanic Heritage month story. My business and my story was shared with the university. Through this recognition I have grown my business within the community at SDSU.

SDSU is a great school to attend, I absolutely love spending time in class and being able to share my opinions and thoughts with the class and professor. Thus far all of my professors have settled office hours and have kept to that schedule, I find that really convenient if I need extra help, and they have also provided their email in case we have quick questions.

San Diego State is a great opportunity for someone looking for a fresh start. The social life is huge and everyone finds a welcoming group of friends. With the amount of students, it’s easy to find your people and find new opportunities some schools don’t offer.

The overall environment of San Diego state gives off a chill vibe. As a freshman, you will most definitely make friends quicker than you think. The meal plan and forming is overly expensive, but it builds your college experience.

Good balance of academic and social life. Good for international students who want to settle in because the campus setup works better. Business is a good major here and international students should mix this with courses which are making it a STEM Degree.

My opinion of SDSU is that it is a very wonderful school, very active in student life and sports. Good memories are to be made there. The students there are very fun and inviting. Academic life is great, the professors are very kind and welcoming here at SDSU.

SDSU has been interesting and exciting since day one. I truly have met my closest friends there and have had a plethora of experiences both good and bad. The academic experience for my major specifically has been remarkable and all of my professors have been intelligent and receptive to any all questions. All classes outside of my major have mediocre at best and the professors seem to only care about collecting a check and doing the bare minimum. Living on campus was okay and the food plan was pretty awful considering the lack of variety. The same food over and over gets so incredibly boring and repetitive and trying to mix things up is nearly impossible. The people and my Nursing specific courses are definitely the main factor that make me want to stay at SDSU.

It is a difficult school to get into. It is located in a great and central area. Everyone is friendly and social. Good academia but a very impacted school. It is difficult to get all of the classes you want because there are so many students at this school.

San Diego State University a dream school, full of many oportunities for its students. There are many great things about this university, but the most important of all its academic integrity of professors on campus with their students. Professor at San Diego State University care about their students, they go out of their way to make their students feel comfortable and learn the material to the fullest. Campus life is very fun, happy, and safe environment for all, students on campus are friendly and make you feel safe and welcome. Not only that but also this university makes sure that their students are provided with the best for them to learn, like many tutoring options and office hour flexibily. There are many extracurricular activities on campus, staff go out of their way to make the college experiance fun for all. For example, every year they do an entire week dedicated to student welcoming that is called "Aztec Nights" which is one of the best way to get to know fellow students. Furthemore, this campus provides with a variety of food options which are all great and super clean. As to study areas, which I personally like, their are many, there is a 24/7 study room which is great cause you can go anytime. As well as all other sitting areas around that are dedicated for student learning. Overall, San Diego State University is a great campus, with a very safe and welcoming environment for all.

Overall, I love being a student at San Diego State University. There are a lot of things I like about it, but there are also some things that I wish they could change. Some of the positive aspects of SDSU is the highly-reputable business program, the beautiful scenery on campus, and the amount of student involvement on campus. There is always something going on and it is really easy to become involved. My school does a great job of planning "Aztec Nights" which help students get to know other students through carnival nights, movie nights, spa and relaxation events, DIY nights, and so many more. I went to every single Aztec night during my first semester and it brought me some of my closest friends! Another really great aspect of SDSU is our school pride. Almost everyone goes to the football and basketball games together, and we are a division one school. SDSU has a lot of students but it doesn't feel too overwhelming. Some things that aren't the best about my school is the safety level. There are certain parts of campus that are known for having homeless people and I try to avoid going over there or walking alone at night. Another thing is that the on-campus housing is so spread out and certain people are stuck in freshman housing that is extremely far away from their classes. Although, the dorms themselves are fairly nice. The campus is very spread out but you can make it from class to class within 15 minutes or less, walking. Overall, I love my school and I wouldn't want to be a student anywhere else. I am very grateful to be able to go here!

I will always have a special place in my heart for San Diego State University, which provided an amazing college experience. I attended San Diego State University from 2006 - 2010, which are four years I will never forget. In terms of academics, the professors were amazing. When people think of Physics, they often think of UC San Diego, not San Diego State University (SDSU.) However, SDSU has some benefits over UCSD. One main benefit was class size. My entire graduating class was nine people. This meant that I knew all of my professors and they had the time to really invest in each student. The professors went above and beyond to be available to their students, and I even had several of their cell phone numbers. In terms of amenities, SDSU boast a state of the art gym, outdoor aquatic center with beach front entry pool, and an arena and open air theater where concerts are frequently held. Since I graduated, I know the student union center was remodeled to offer more resources and amenities to students. The meal plans offer several dining options, for those worried about getting a good meal. There is one main dining hall, which serves buffet style food with a rotating menu. There are also grills and markets throughout campus where students can get prepackage food or items like hamburgers. Additionally, there are restaurants such as Jamba Juice, Taco Bell, etc. You won't go hungry! In terms of a social life, there is something for everyone. There are several Greek houses, if that is something you are interested in. There are also hundreds of different clubs that students can join, including intramural sports, and clubs based on personal interest. I know the party scene is something that students and parents worry about when attending college. If we are honest, it is a college campus, so there are parties and alcohol available. There are also students who choose not to participate in those activities, which is also totally OK. I personally was one of those students who chose not to drink or participate in Greek life and I never felt pressured or ridiculed for my decision. I always felt I was supported and accepted for who and what I wanted to be. Finally, and I know this is cliche, but I met some of my best, life-long friends while attending SDSU. These people are still some of my most dear friends and, even though we don't live with each other anymore, we have been by each other's side as we have gotten married, had children, started new careers, etc. I am so glad that I chose SDSU as my college and would make the decision again.

San Diego State is a very welcoming school that allows for many opportunities for each individual. At this school, there are plenty of people that can make you feel comfortable on campus. Coming into San Diego State as first year from out of state, I was nervous about being so away from home but since coming here it has become my home away from home.