Grand Valley State University

You really have to give props to GVSU's marketing department. They definitely know how to market this university as much more than it really is. Before attending GVSU and while attending GVSU, you are constantly reminded of how GVSU is a Tier 1 University on the same academic level as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. In the real world, however, a degree from GVSU is nowhere near as respected. GVSU might have a good reputation in Grand Rapids/West Michigan, since it is the only public four state university in the direct region. Elsewhere in the state, a GVSU degree is not regarded in any higher standard than a degree from any directional/regional university.

The opportunities do not present themselves as faculty would like you to believe. The "Laker Jobs" database is a complete joke. The majority of positions are borderline pyramid schemes and commission based sales. Be prepared to spend time sorting through Indeed and CraigsList post graduation. The careers services center is another joke. They claim to be there to help, but e-mails and phone calls go unanswered. In fact, the only phone call I received from GVSU post-graduation was asking for a financial donation.

Faculty, especially those that are tenured, can also leave a lot to be desired. Many courses in the business school provide no real training for the real world. They essentially involved coming to class (occasionally in some case), doing your work (again, only occasionally in some cases), then getting the credits. Many skills employers look for (such as proficiency in Quickbooks) are not even introduced. Some of the tenured faculty here are the most smug and undeservingly entitled professors you will ever encounter.

You will find the student body here to be an interesting mix. Plenty of students from other corners of Michigan coming here due to it's supposed "Tier 1" status. These are definitely the students bringing at least some diversity and outside thoughts to the university. For those not from Grand Rapids/West Michigan, you will be shocked at the narrow mindedness and conservatism you will find from those local to the area. I can clearly recall two times where "guest speakers" in my courses began discussing religion. Practice what you want, but let's keep preaching out of the classroom at a public university.

On the plus side... the campuses, both downtown and Allendale, are both very safe, clean, and well manicured. The financial aid office and academic counseling are also very top notch. Not too surprising though. They definitely want you to have a great opinion of the university before putting yourself in debt for what is basically a worthless piece of paper. Is this to say that GVSU is the worst university you could go to? Absolutely not. Do not come here to find yourself. Do not come here for the great social life. Do not come here to make lasting life long connections, personally or professionally. You will be disappointed. Unless you are receiving a hefty scholarship, I would also advise anyone to not relocate from any other region to attend this university. If you are from the Grand Rapids area and come to GVSU with a clear vision of what you want, both academically and professionally, by all means go for it. Otherwise, I would advise you to look elsewhere.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000