Public colleges in New York State - experiences?

What are some good public colleges in New York State? I'm a junior and have started exploring SUNY and CUNY schools, but I'd love to get some firsthand opinions and experiences from others. Thanks!

It's great that you're starting to explore public colleges in New York State! The SUNY and CUNY systems both offer a wide variety of high-quality educational experiences, depending on what you're looking for. I'll provide a brief overview of some popular choices that you might consider, along with their general reputations:

1. SUNY Binghamton: Often considered one of the top SUNY schools, Binghamton is known for its strong academics and research opportunities. The campus environment is suburban and offers various clubs and activities.

2. SUNY Stony Brook: This university has a strong focus on STEM disciplines, particularly engineering, computer science, and health sciences. It's located on Long Island and offers research opportunities as well as a diverse student body.

3. SUNY Buffalo: With a large campus and many offered majors, Buffalo gives students a comprehensive college experience. It has strong programs in engineering, business, and the arts and is located in a city with a rich cultural scene.

4. SUNY Geneseo: This smaller, liberal arts focused SUNY is known for its picturesque campus and strong sense of community. Academically, it excels in the humanities, social sciences, and education.

5. CUNY Baruch: Baruch College stands out for its Zicklin School of Business and has an excellent reputation in business, finance, and accounting. As it's in Manhattan, it offers plenty of networking and internship opportunities.

6. CUNY Hunter: Hunter College is known for its strength in the liberal arts and sciences. Located in Manhattan, it provides students with access to New York City's resources and boasts a diverse student body.

7. CUNY City College: With a focus on engineering, architecture, and the humanities, City College is an excellent choice for students looking for strong academics and research opportunities in a large city setting.

Remember, each school has its own unique atmosphere, so it's important to visit campuses and speak with current students to get a feel for what life is like at each institution. Additionally, consider factors such as location, size, available majors, and extracurricular opportunities when determining which schools might be a good fit for you. Good luck on your college search!