So I got accepted to both schools around a month ago, and they’re both my #1 school because I want to attend a Cal State. I would consider UCI but still haven’t gotten accepted yet. Anyways, I attended Explore SDSU Open House yesterday and I left disappointed. I came with my family from Orange County to SD and I had expected to fall in love with the campus, but I didn’t. I was there for four hours, and we first did the campus tour, which was so lame because the guide literally just walked around the Viejas building…Then we crossed this white bridge to housing area and we checked out Doubles (2 people/room) and man were they bad looking. I dont know if they selected a bad housing example, but the building was small, cramped, and it felt like a cheap motel. Another negative I found was I didn’t feel welcomed at all, the campus looked kinda dead and non-spirited. I cut them some slack because it was 8am on saturday morning. To shed light on SDSU, the Viejas building was huge and beautiful, I can imagine myself at a bball game there. I also love how they have really good sports team and I heard they’re the #1 CSU. I felt like SDSU was a good option because SD is completely different from OC and it would be a good experience to dorm there, but my first impression of the school ruined it for me.
My major right now is Liberal Studies, and I am still really split between the schools. The thing with Long Beach is that it’s close to home, I can commute, and I think they have a really good teaching program. Anyways, I’ve seen some good reviews about SDSU, anyone that’s planning to go there, been there, or has graduated from SDSU, can you guys shed some light on the school and explain more about the campus? Thank you
Aztec Mom here. I can tell you that when my son first visited SDSU, he definitely was not blown away with the tour, dorms or the overall feeling. Also I will add, on weekends, no students are up and about until 12 so you did not see the campus at its best. He went for a second visit prior to SIRing and the campus atmosphere was completely different. There is great school spirit especially for the Basketball and Football games. The Aztec parents association is highly involved with putting on activites throughout the school year to keep students involved. They hauled in snow for a snow day, hauled in sand for a beach party etc… My son has made great friends, always busy exploring San Diego and just loves his time so far.
Regarding the dorms, the old bricks (Olmeca and Maya) are similar to many of the Cal State dorms (CPP/SLO and even Long Beach). Yes they show wear and tear, but as a double they are fairly roomie. The bricks are where the Living/Learning communities are based so if you are interested in any LLC’s you will be placed there. Zura has just been renovated and the suites are also an option. It is unfortunate that housing usually uses Olmeca for their tours. My son is in Olmeca and he has found no issues in his living arrangement.
SDSU is a great school, but sometimes it takes awhile to get the feel of the overall campus. If money is an issue, CSULB is a great alternative. It really depends upon what you are looking for in terms of academics and social atmosphere. You also have to remember, although many Freshman live on campus, both schools are commuter schools, so on weekends many students go home which will add to the deserted feeling. Good Luck on your decision and if you have any other questions in regards to SDSU, you can PM me.
