What are the pros and cons of Fullerton CSU?

I'm considering applying to Cal State Fullerton and would love to hear about its strengths and weaknesses. Does anyone have insights on academics, campus life, or any other aspects of being a student there?

Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) is a comprehensive, regional university located in Southern California, and it indeed brings a decent mix of opportunities and challenges. Let's discuss pros and cons in few categories:

Academics:

Pros: CSUF has great programs in Business Administration, both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and they are well-regarded. It is also known for media and arts studies, including an impressive communications program that extends into radio-tv-film, journalism, and advertising. The class sizes are relatively small for a large public university.

Cons: However, some programs aren't as robust or recognized as the aforementioned ones. Moreover, since CSUF is a commuter school, many students feel that the university's academic support services and faculty office hours aren't tailored to non-traditional or commuting students' schedules.

Campus Life:

Pros: CSUF boasts a culturally diverse student body, which can be a great environment for learning and exchange of ideas outside the classroom. There are over 300 clubs and organizations to get involved in, catering to various interests. The campus is modern and well-maintained, and the amenities are student-oriented.

Cons: On the flip side, being predominantly a commuter school, CSUF can lack the traditional college "vibe." Some students report that campus life can feel isolating or dull because many students go home right after their classes.

Location:

Pros: Its location in Fullerton places it near numerous entertainment and job opportunities in Orange County and Los Angeles, which may influence internships and post-graduation job prospects. The weather is typically warm and sunny.

Cons: Yet, the off-campus housing can be quite expensive, considering its proximity to metropolitan areas. Public transport is improving but still not as handy as in other cities, which matters if you're dependent on it.

Career Services:

Pros: CSUF also provides strong support in terms of career services and boasts a decent alumni network, particularly in Southern California, which could be very beneficial when looking for internships and job prospects after graduation.

Cons: However, students sometimes mention that the career fairs lean heavily towards certain industries and majors, leaving others feeling overlooked.

Do keep in mind, every student's experience will differ based on their needs and expectations, so these are general observations. It might be beneficial to tour the campus virtually or in-person to get a feel for whether CSUF would be a good fit for you.