The Scoop on California State University, San Bernardino

So, I'm trying to decide where to apply and California State University, San Bernardino is on my potential list. Could anyone give me a rundown of what it's like to be a student there? Anything from academics to social life would be helpful!

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) indeed has a lot to offer, not only academically but also in terms of social life and student engagement.

Academically, CSUSB is well known for a number of its programs. Among its most popular majors you'll find Business, Psychology, and Criminal Justice. The faculty is generally well-regarded, and many students appreciate the smaller class sizes which allow for personalized attention. One notable feature is that the university offers a quarter system, as opposed to a semester system, which means academics can be intense with quicker turnover for classes.

Despite its commuter-campus status, CSUSB offers a vibrant array of extracurricular activities. There are more than 160 student clubs and organizations ranging from Greek life to cultural clubs to academic societies. This provides ample opportunities for students to grow outside of the classroom and build strong networks.

If you're an outdoors enthusiast, you'll be pleased to hear that CSUSB is located at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploration. The campus recreation center also organizes outdoor trips and activities.

Another unique facet of CSUSB is its robust community engagement. They have an Office of Community Engagement that facilitates partnerships between students and local nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, and schools. This means you can apply what you learn in class to the real world while also giving back to the community.

In terms of campus amenities, the Student Union is the hub for student life, with various eateries, study rooms, and spaces for social and cultural events. CSUSB also has convenient on-campus housing, ranging from residence halls to apartments.

In a nutshell, being a student at CSUSB means having access to quality academics along with a well-rounded student life experience. While it is a more commuter-centric school, there's plenty of ways to get involved and truly make the most out of your college experience. Every college experience is unique, so it's important to visit the campus and see if you can picture yourself there, if possible!