State University of New York - Stony Brook University (SBU)

SUNY Stony Brook is "on par with the best of the country," according to one student. This public "research-intensive" institution uses its large size to offer a wide range of crosscurricular opportunities at both the undergrad and graduate levels. As one enrollee in a part-time MBA program puts it, having "met people with engineering, medical, business, and liberal arts backgrounds...is a fun experience." A third-year also lauds the school's connections to Stony Brook University Hospital, which helps those studying for medical professions, and others point to a wealth of similar opportunities by association: "scholarships, fellowships, job opportunities, or even workshops held by different organizations on a variety of topics."

Even without external offerings, students would still appreciate that professors on campus "are professional and experienced in their own area and are capable of providing us with knowledge and insights in class" and "dedicated to students' development." One sophomore notes that an "algorithm teacher used the New York train system to explain many concepts which are going to stay with me for many years." And for those students following a research track, the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URECA) program helps students take the next steps with faculty, making sure that no opportunities are lost.

Students from around the world come to Stony Brook for a variety of interests from medical to science to research," raves one first-year student. Accordingly, there's an array of "diverse cultural and academic backgrounds"-though no shortage of community given the shared enthusiasm: "I feel lucky to meet a group of classmates who share the same passion for Economics!" That common focus delights students who explain that even on online discussion boards, "everyone is very nice and asks good intellectual questions." It also means that regardless of backgrounds, there's an overall bunch of students who are "knowledgeable, and they propel you to do more and achieve more."

From stargazing with the astronomy club to raising puppies for the Guide Dog Foundation, Stony Brook offers "a wide range of clubs and organizations for students to join." Attending cultural club events, participating in Greek life, and watching the "various fantastic shows at the Staller Center for the Arts" are also favorite activities on campus. Meanwhile, those with athletic goals benefit from "a variety of recreational facilities, such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and sports fields."

Some students note that the social life can be low-key and casual, given that so many are "focused on excellent grades and performance," particularly at the graduate level. But students do manage to fit in activities: "We typically hang out with friends, chill at the dining halls or library, play frisbee when it's hot, [and] throw snowballs when it snows." And if the campus sometimes feels empty on the weekends, that's only because students venture to nearby New York City or enjoy "visiting the beaches, hiking trails, parks, and many other outdoor activities" available on Long Island.