Grand Valley State University

I honestly don't understand the complaints about GVSU.
A) I don't feel like a number here. The people in my department are extremely caring and helpful. They want students to succeed, but will not coddle those who refuse to help themselves.

B) People complain about the surrounding city. While Allendale is boring and there's nothing to do, Grand Rapids is literally a 20 minute bus ride and buses run late at night, so it's not like you CAN'T go out at night and have a ride home.

C) What's with the complaints about campus life? Okay, there are parties literally 5 nights a week. If you would actually leave your room and go someplace other than class, they're remarkably easy to find. There are numerous clubs and student organizations.

D) Campus resources are great. GVSU will make sure you find a way to pay your tuition. They provide help finding internships and jobs. There are abundant volunteer opportunities and leadership opportunities on campus. We're also one of the top schools for studying abroad, which is an amazing experience.

E) The campus is great and well-maintained. The housing is fantastic and the food, while a little repetitive (which... it's college food... to be expected) is still good. I love it here and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

1st Year Female -- Class 2012

Perceived Campus Safety: A+, Innovation: B

I am a senior at gvsu and should be graduating next may 2011. Overall, I have liked it but keep in mind GVSU is not for everyone. First of all, when you start out with your freshmen year gen eds. they are really easy (some I should say) and others are b.s. but you do find your interest with them. As for my major, Accounting, I would say its around 3rd in the state, as is GV for academics, though it is comparable to MSU for regular academics (look at Princeton Review or U.S. News and World Report). As for the social scene, yes it could be better but there is more to college than getting drunk every day, if you wanna do that go to MSU or even better CMU.

Still, GV is good for those of us who like small classes and discussions with faculty. It is a combination between a large Big Ten type college and a small private college, it is a public university though. If you're looking to be taught by a graduate student at a graduate focused school (though higher reputation, people always overrate flagship universities in their respective states) then go to a Big Ten school. Also, I think GV needs to recruit more out of state and non West Michigan students (most "locals" are pretty cool though some can be close-minded, but it is good to get some diversity at any university) though they are doing that currently.

My biggest recommendation is to be involved in some sort of organization or activity outside of class. Whether it is Harry Potter Club or Greek Life it is important to be involved at GVSU in order to be part of the community. I think most people who don't like GVSU were not involved in the campus at all, and therefore complain. Also, the study abroad can be good to gain some insights on the world outside of West Michigan (I'm talking to you "locals").

Like I said overall I liked GVSU, but also GVSU has strong focuses in business, education, and health sciences/medical field. If you are not in that program, you will probably have a much different experience than myself. Just keep in mind that no college is perfect and to do your research. Furthermore, if you're out of state (I'm not but I know this) it can be cheaper to go to GV than your state flagship in state (ex. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) so make sure to check out the campus.Lastly, our sports are really good and they are free to go to, including football. GO LAKERS!!!

1st Year Female -- Class 2011

Perceived Campus Safety: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B-