Florida International University (FIU)

Those at Florida International University are privy to an affordable and "high standard of education," a "beautiful campus," and a community bursting with "the utmost pride and respect for their school." The institution is also teeming with "many opportunities and flexible resources for its student body, such as the various societies, research opportunities, and career help." When it comes to academics, FIU is home to a wide array of departments, with students agreeing the best of the best are "easily the international business and relations, law, medicine, and biological sciences departments." Inside the classroom, undergrads are greeted by faculty who are known to be "industry experts." Although a handful feel that "some classes are too big for intimate discussions," others insist that their professors "look after their students and take pride in giving them a great education." As this undergrad concludes, "My overall academic experience has been very positive. I have had great professors and mentors who have prepared me for work and study in my field."

When it comes to discussing their peers, undergrads are quick to boast that "the student body at Florida International University is one of the most diverse and unique in all the U.S." Indeed, you can find "people from all over the world who attend this university." A large percentage hail from Spanish-speaking countries such as "Venezuela, Colombia, Puerto Rico, [and] Spain." It's really a "melting pot of cultures and customs." Beyond geographical background, students report that their peers are "a very genuine group of people with very smart minds" and "very helpful to each other." One individual elaborates, "They're so friendly that people will leave their bags with complete strangers at the library while they go to the bathroom because it's just that kind of environment." FIU undergrads also tend to be hardworking and dedicated to their studies. "I have never seen such [an] enthusias[tic] and determined group of people. [We stay] up late nights together in a classroom trying to understand the material." Although a few undergrads note that the student body is "mostly composed of commuters" who "do not live on campus" and have "many responsibilities outside of campus, " most agree that "FIU is like a family. Everyone looks out for each other and finds ways to come together."

Sure, academics take priority at Florida International University. But undergrads still manage to carve out time for fun and for extracurriculars. "They have something to do for everyone, and that is a great strength." To begin with, the student council is always organizing activities be it "movie nights, game nights, yoga for beginners, recipe competitions, [or] prize-winning events." What's more, academic "departments will host guest lectures with prominent individuals...[such as] researchers or people with experience in a career related to the field." Undergrads looking to burn off some steam and academic stress love to hit up "the recreation center, as it is nicer than any local private gym," with many saying, "intramural sports [are] a favorite." Lots of FIU undergrads are also "active member[s] in multiple student organizations" with "a myriad of clubs to choose from," ranging from Greek life and theater society to pre-health clubs and the chess team. Taking "drives to Biscayne Bay [or] Miami Beach and food places around town [are a] favorite pastime," as well as sampling all of the "clubs, restaurants, museums, and beautiful parks" around the city. In short, "Miami always has something happening."