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Grand Valley State University

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I have loved going to Grand Valley toBrightHistory/Histories (art history/etc.)
I have loved going to Grand Valley to get my Bachelors. The campus is beautiful and very well maintained. The faculty here has been awesome and incredibly supportive. In high school I was always told that university professors couldn't care less about their students, but I have experienced the complete opposite here. The professors practically beg students to come to them during office hours to talk, it is really nice. The only complaints I have is that Allendale is really isolated. Grand Rapids is where it's at, and it's only a short bus ride away. This is definitely not a party school as others have stated already, this is a place for serious students who are here to learn and get employed. There is also a severe lack of diversity, but most students that I have experienced are more liberal minded and are aware of the isolation Grand Valley has compared to other universities. Overall I have not regretted my decision to come here.
3rd Year Female -- Class 2013
Faculty Accessibility: A+, Collaboration/Competitive: C
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Let me start by saying Grand Valley isQuite Bright
Let me start by saying Grand Valley is not a bad school and some people do honestly love it there, but if you want any kind of culture, excitement, genuine school spirit, or fun, steer clear of GVSU. The students and faculty are friendly enough, but the university itself feels SO isolated from the world. Cops both on and off campus are NUTS. Literally out to get you kind of cops that will harass you to no end. It's beautiful in the late-summer, early fall when you can go to Grand Haven and Art Prize downtown, both at 25+ minutes away. Many of the students are very sheltered and unintentionally ignorant to the issues of the real world. I went here because I wanted a "different" experience from Michigan State, and that's what you'll get alright. Different and BORING. Mind you, I was involved in Greek life and a number of other organizations as well. I lasted one year and ended up transferring to State and I LOVE IT. The energy here is so much more exciting, the school spirit is unparalleled. GVSU is fine for some, but like I said earlier, if you're looking for a fun, involved, cultured, growing experience, you WON'T find it at Grand Valley.
1st Year Male -- Class 2015
Perceived Campus Safety: A+, Surrounding City: F
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I haven't even completed my first year yetBrightMusic Education
I haven't even completed my first year yet and I already have negative attributes toward Grand Valley. The students here are just as awful as those in high school. The way I've been treated by students in the extracurriculars I participate is completely ridiculous, they act like they're still in high school. If you know the right people, there are plenty of parties but the cops and the enforcement here is absolutely ridiculous. The fear of getting an MIP is constantly on your mind and it's almost a guarantee that you'll get one at some point. The professors here are pretty good. I've liked mine and I have learned a great deal after only being here for a semester. However, as I stated previously, the students are horrible. You find some really cool people but if you're even the slightest bit Agnostic or Atheist, you will not fit in, as I have learned. Everyone here is hardcore Christian and frankly, it's frustrating. Allendale, the surrounding city, is horrible and there is absolutely nothing to do. Grand Rapids is a cool city though. Overall, I don't like Grand Valley at all and I regret making the choice to come here.
1st Year Female -- Class 2016
Education Quality: A+, Surrounding City: F
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