What's it like at Florida State University?

I'm considering applying to Florida State University and would love to hear about student life there. Is it a big school, and how are the academic and social experiences?

Florida State University (FSU) is located in Tallahassee, the state capital of Florida, and it's definitely a large institution. The student population is roughly around 42,000, with undergraduates making up a significant portion. This size lends itself to a vibrant and diverse student body with a myriad of interests and backgrounds. There's a real sense of school spirit and pride, especially around the Seminoles, their Division I athletic teams.

Academically, FSU has a strong reputation across a wide range of disciplines. It's particularly known for its programs in Business, Engineering, and the Performing Arts. The faculty consists of high-achieving scholars who are imparting their knowledge, and the university offers resources such as tutoring and academic advising to support students' success. And with a wide variety of majors and minors offered, you’ll likely be able to study whatever it is that you're passionate about.

As for social life, there are countless ways to get involved outside of the classroom. There are over 800 student organizations, and these clubs cover practically every interest you could imagine, from academic clubs related to specific majors, to dance groups, to volunteering organizations. Greek life is also present on campus, with a number of sororities and fraternities, if that's your thing. And remember, being in Tallahassee, there are tons of outdoor activities, like hiking and visiting the beach, as well as cultural activities like museums and music festivals.

The size of the school may be intimidating at first, but the abundant resources and the welcoming community at FSU do much to make it feel smaller and more intimate. It's definitely value for money in terms of the wide range of opportunities it offers socially and academically. Make sure to visit if you can, as that will help you really get a feel for the campus and see if it's a good fit for you.