Opinions on ESF SUNY for environmental majors?

I’m considering ESF SUNY for an environmental science and forestry major. Does anyone know how the school ranks in environmental programs and what student life is like there?

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is considered one of the premier institutions for environmental sciences in the United States. While it might not be as well-known as larger universities, it's highly regarded in its specialization.

Based on academic strength and job placement rates, the environmental programs at ESF are generally highly respected. In fact, the university prides itself on offering some of the most comprehensive and integrated curriculums in environmental science, conservation biology, and sustainable energy management, to name a few. They also boast a hands-on approach to learning that allows students to put theory into practice. Talking about academics, an impressive feature of ESF is that its degrees cover broad areas, which lets students explore a wide range of topics related to the environment before focusing on a specific field.

Currently, the faculty-to-student ratio at ESF is about 1:16, which generally allows students to have smaller class sizes and more one-on-one attention from professors. This often translates to opportunities for individualized guidance and mentoring, which can be a tremendous benefit if you're in a research-heavy major like environmental science and forestry.

On the student life side of things, some students mention that ESF has a tight-knit, supportive community. There is a lot of collaboration and shared passion for the environment among students, which helps foster a unique, focused environment. There are also many student-run clubs and organizations centered around environmental issues and outdoor activities. The school's location in Syracuse offers access to a larger city's amenities while still being relatively close to outdoor recreational opportunities.

However, it's important to consider that choosing a school with a specialized focus could mean less emphasis on other areas of college life like athletics or the arts. So, it might be helpful to thoroughly research and consider how balanced you want your college experience to be with respect to academic, social, and extracurricular concerns.

Overall, for students who are clear about their passion for environmental sciences, ESF SUNY could provide a focused, academically rigorous, and supportive environment to pursue their interests.