<p>So I just got back from orientation, and I have to say.. not liking Binghamton so far.
I really tried my best to make friends, but no one seemed interested. Everyone I met was either a complete toolbag or was too shy to say anything. Although could that have to do with the communities they're living in? Cause most of the douchey people I spoke to were living in Dickinson or Newing in the fall. I didn't meet too many people who are staying in my community in the fall, which is CIW. Will the people be different at CIW in the fall?
Well, regardless, that wasn't my only issue. I also felt like such a number. I know, I know, I should expect that from attending a SUNY. But still, it was so frustrating trying to sign up for classes. Even before sign up started, you could see that most of the classes were filled up from previous orientations, which is a little unfair considering not everyone can go there on the same dates. So yeah, scheduling was hell, and I didn't get too many good courses. I'm fine with most of them, except for this one english class I have to take that's a 300 level course. The reason I took it was because my advisor was pressuring me to take a class that would fulfill my writing requirement for gen ed, but what do you know, most of the 100-200 level courses were filled. So that 300 level course was basically my only option.
I feel like in terms of classes I was just choosing from the scraps. And honestly I have a feeling I'm going to do terribly in that 300 level english class, especially because I have a slight learning disability that impairs my reading. I'm still prepared to work hard, but I'm just frustrated that it'll be more difficult for me because of that.
It also irks me that some of the classes literally had capacities of 10 people. Like WTF? Do you know how much that limits your options?
I don't know, I'm just not getting a good feeling about Binghamton. I'm prepared to try it out for a semester, but is it crazy to think about transferring in the spring if I don't like it?</p>
<p>OP, I hope this does not come across as belittling your impressions. I am trying to help you maintain a positive attitude and give Bing a chance, since you have already matriculated and you ARE going there very soon.</p>
<p>Every school is going to have its drawbacks. You feel like a number. This will lessen as you get to know students and profs, find your way around, etc. Yet there is no denying that the school is just, well, big.</p>
<p>Getting into classes will be easier as you increase time on campus. Yes, it will always be a challenge at a public school to get into classes, and to graduate in time. But it will be less of a challenge over time as you figure out how to best navigate the system.</p>
<p>So far you have not connected with any individuals / groupings. This will take time and effort, it is true. But it will happen, no matter where you are. Be patient. At a big campus the disadvantage is that it may take longer to find “your people.” But precisely because it is so big, they are definitely there. There is a niche for everyone.</p>
<p>Bing is a great value. If you are miserable in a year, transfer. You will have saved thousands of dollars.</p>
<p>However give it a chance. Not for nothing is Bing one of the country’s best public Ivys. It may be okay, ie, the tradeoffs for the very real shortcomings which you have identified may be made up for by other positives which you discover as you go along. Best of luck!</p>