Any opinion is greatly appreciated! I am a high school senior who will be attending college Fall 2020 to study film. I have been accepted to SFSU, Boise, UNLV, Sac, Humboldt, and Cal state LA. However, I have limited it down to CSU LA (closest to home but still about 2 hrs away) or OCC and then transfer to a 4 year. I am unsure about the program at CSULA and the 9% graduation rate. I am also debating if I could get the same education for cheaper at a community college? I can’t visit with Cov-19 so anything you guys have to add would be appreciated! Thank you
If you are thinking of commuting that distance - DONT!
I don’t know much about the Film programs but, I would say most students change majors at least once. At this stage, I’d put more focus on the campus rather than the nuts and bolts of the program.
LA has a low 4 year grad rate in large part because most people commute and have other responsibilities - meaning they don’t/can’t take a full load 8 semesters in a row. Another factor is preparedness - a lot of students don’t have the math/science/language pre-reqs when they arrive - that doesn’t mean they aren’t bright, talented and motivated, Many didn’t have the class avaialble or, didnt know they would really need them later - so they take an extra semester or 2 to fill that gap. As I understand it, the classes are available and if you come in prepared, you can get through in 4.
That said, LA and the other commuter campuses are harder to make friends (cause people go for class, then leave) and have fun.
If you like Humboldt, you should probably go there - it is a really unique place and virtually impossible to live there after you graduate. Cheap (for CA) rent is also appealing.
SF is crazy expensive and largely a commuter campus.
Sac is a lot cheaper than SF and LA and is working hard to transform itself form a commuter school, they have added a lot of beds on and near campus so, it is worth considering.
Boise is a good option if you can afford it. LV - honestly, not sure.
While most of the campuses are having students take classes on-line for the rest of the semester and aren’t hosting tours - the campuses aren’t fenced off. I’d try to walk around and self guide a tour yourself. The dorms are empty but, there are apartments, near campus so, students are around if you want to chat them up.
go to community college personally I think that you will save money and you can transfer to better schools. Most ccc have agreements with uc/csu for transfer admission guarantee at the same time you will save a lot of money. Good luck with your decision!