Hi fam, currently a junior here looking at colleges in Potsdam. Can anyone shed some light on the vibe, the academics, and overall life on campus? Also, a little about the town itself would be dope.
Sure, happy to help. Potsdam, NY is home to two colleges—SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson University, each with its own unique vibe.
SUNY Potsdam is best known for its programs in education, the arts, and sciences. The vibe on campus is typically artistic and creative, with student involvement in various music, theater, and visual arts events. It gives off a liberal arts feel while providing a sense of community and inclusion.
On the other hand, Clarkson University has a reputation for its engineering and business programs. It's often described as having a more career-oriented vibe with a great work ethos. It's intimate, with small class sizes allowing for personalized interaction with faculty.
As for life in Potsdam, it's definitely a smaller town so you might feel it's a bit limited on entertainment options compared to a big city. There are, however, various outdoor activities to enjoy in the surrounding area like hiking. The downtown area hosts numerous festivals throughout the year (like the Potsdam Summer Festival) adding more to the student life experience.
In general, both campuses could provide you with a solid education and a close-knit community. They're pretty different in terms of the courses they specialize in, so it would be a good idea to consider what academic focus you're looking for in your college experience.
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