The State University of New York Binghamton

Before I came to Binghamton, I had heard a lot of mixed reviews. Some had said that the environment was depressing because of the rainy/cold weather, others had raved about the beautiful mountains and fun snow activities they were able to engage in. Personally, it doesn't really matter to me whether I have to carry an umbrella with me everywhere or I get to take ski trips on the weekends- What's important is that Binghamton is a wonderful, challenging school that had brought my education to a new level. The classes I have taken and the resources I have utilized (like the career development center) have helped me to decide what I want to do after college in the real world- and really, isn't that why we attend college in the first place?

2nd Year Female -- Class 2009

Faculty Accessibility: A-, Surrounding City: C

I love it here. It's a beautiful campus with a warm and friendly community of dedicated, down to earth people. It's the kind of place where people hold doors open for each other and smile!

So far, my education has been top tier, without the pressures and pretensions one might expect to accompany such depth and rigor. Similarly, as a musician, I feel very fortunate to be in a high quality program with a fun and familial atmosphere, rather than a competitive one. I have flexible scheduling options- ie: I can take several music classes, lessons and coachings, and still have time to study in other departments, join clubs and have jobs. I am confident that I'll be as well prepared as any conservatory student to pursue my career in performance after I graduate, and probably more "well-rounded."

Professors are very accessible. All you have to do is knock on their doors- they want to talk with you! Many actually make a concerted effort to get to know students, scheduling individual conferences with students or facebooking. I think it's best to get out there to meet them, seek their advice and pick their large, experienced brains.

I am inspired daily by my professors' talent and love of their work. I am constantly invited to look at the world from new perspectives in challenging classes or at late night lectures from Pulitzer Prize winners and other brilliant guests from all over the world. I have fun in my dorm with crazy programs our R.A.s think up. I could go on and on. The bottom line is: I feel so lucky to be here.Here's my corny last word: Good luck on your college search! Binghamton is the place for me, perhaps it is for you as well. Whatever happens, things work out. Have fun and follow your heart!

2nd Year Female -- Class 2010

Education Quality: A+, Surrounding City: B

When I was looking at colleges, my mother told me I was never going to find one that fit all the criteria that I was looking for. That was until I got into Binghamton. It has the social life, religious environment, and of course the academics that I had been looking for. There is so much to get involved in on campus. It might not be in a huge city like New York, or on the beach like in California, but with a positive attitude Binghamton can be the best 4 years of your life.

1st Year Female -- Class 2011

Education Quality: A+, Surrounding City: B+