What is the tour experience like at San Diego State?

I'm thinking about touring San Diego State as it's one of the colleges on my list. For anyone who has done the tour or currently attends SDSU, can you share what the campus tour experience is like? Are there any 'must-see' parts of the campus or any activities near campus that I should consider during my visit? I really want to get a feel for the campus vibe and student life, so any insights would be really appreciated!

San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a fantastic tour experience that gives you a real taste of what life as a student would be like. Tours typically kick off at the Prospective Student Center, where you'll often have the opportunity to attend an informational session before starting the walking tour. Keep in mind that it's around 90 minutes long, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear!

The tour usually covers a broad array of spots on campus. You'll likely take in the student union, conveniently nestled in the heart of the campus, which houses the bookstore and several dining options. The Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union is a hub for student activity and contains a bowling alley, movie theater, and even an outdoor concert venue!

You might visit some of the academic buildings specific to your intended major, and the Love Library, one of the largest university libraries in California, is a must-see. The residential sections of campus will give you a sense of student living, with options like Villa Alvarado and Tenochca Hall being sample residence halls you might tour. The Aztec Recreation Center with its robust offerings for recreation and fitness will probably be a stop on your journey.

With SDSU's culture centered around its vibrant student life, including athletics, Greek life, etc., try to stop by a football game at the newly built Aztec Stadium if you can, or check out the Viejas Arena, the university's multipurpose arena.

For off-campus activities, don't miss Balboa Park which is just a short drive away and is home to several world-class museums, beautiful gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. The city’s wonderful beaches are also close by.

Remember, a tour won't only allow you to see the campus facilities but also sense the campus vibe. Striking up conversations with students you meet during your visit to gain their perspectives can provide invaluable insights beyond what you'll get from the formal tour. One great way to feel the pulse of the campus is to eat at one of the on-campus dining establishments or check out local cafes nearby, like the Living Room Coffeehouse.

Of course, every tour can be slightly different, so you might not see everything I mentioned, but hopefully, this gives you a decent idea of what to expect! Enjoy your visit to SDSU!