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

Students at the State University of New York at Stony Brook take on demanding coursework and benefit from abundant research opportunities, especially in the sciences. Many highlight “an amazing STEM program for anyone wanting to pursue any field of STEM, whether health, engineering, [or] policy.” Even in introductory classes, students note having the chance to design “a fully operational customized robot” and others happily spend their time hanging out in labs “to explore the different tools available to students.” Those in popular majors (Biology, Psychology, Health Science, Applied Mathematics and Statistics) say their “academics are rigorous and prepare [them] well for the future,” with “lots of great classes and professors.” Beyond the classroom, students cite the abundant “research opportunities offered to undergraduates” as one of Stony Brook’s greatest strengths. Designated as an R1 research institution, projects on campus can be as local as cleaning up the waterways around Long Island or as far-reaching as building the “nation’s largest quantum network” to advance internet safety and speed for all. One professor’s hands-on lesson captures the school’s ethos: “[It’s] the difference between playing baseball and doing baseball, the latter being our participation in the camaraderie, thrill, teamwork, and more that comes with baseball as a sport, activity, and life.” Stony Brook is a place for doing things, led by professors who “care about their students and…aim to help [them] all.”

SUNY Stony Brook attracts “people who are focused on academics but enjoy maintaining worthwhile social connections.” As one student explains, “They’re definitely more driven toward studies and school. However, my peers are from all kinds of different backgrounds and come from all over.” Another student emphasizes the “rich blend of international students” at Stony Brook. With such diversity, academic enthusiasm is a uniting factor across campus. “The student body is very supportive and always willing to help each other out. Everyone is hard-working and high-achieving, but the environment never feels competitive or uncomfortable.” This balance between academics and social activities creates a welcoming atmosphere. “Our student body always makes events inclusive to everyone whether it be the theme or holiday or something else. Everyone has something they can do here.” Another student elaborates, describing Stony Brook students as “the most genuine and down-to-earth people…[which is] exceptionally inspiring, and each peer that I come into contact with pushes me to my fullest potential.” Stony Brook, as one student puts it best, “fosters so many connections from various perspectives of life and allows for connection whether it be through arts, sports, or academics.”

“I love the clubs that are offered here,” enthuses one of many undergrads who look to student groups to provide “a small community on campus to interact with and have fun events.” Students note they “can find a club for any of their interests,” including performance groups, identity-based organizations, and leisure clubs. As many groups meet weekly, it’s “simple to be consistent and show up.” One student cites the “radio station and the SBU Pocket Theatre” as personal favorites, providing the “best outlet here in order to explore and pursue the arts as a secondary to academics.” Others find clubs an effective way to reinforce their academics. For instance, the robotics team does “an internal competition to engage the general campus on robotics,” and many groups invite guest speakers, which is a “cool [way] to get to meet more people.” Outside of clubs, the recreation center is a major student hub that is “very nice, clean, and well-maintained.” Intramural basketball, volleyball, and badminton are favorite pastimes. Overall, students value that with “countless opportunities” to get involved, “there is quite literally an activity for everyone.”

The Career Center at Stony Brook offers numerous resources through the virtual Handshake platform: students can schedule meetings for workshops or career coaching, including personalized assessments, mock interviews, resume reviews, and guides to networking. Career Communities connects students to employers and faculty in their fields and allows students access to a database for both on- and off-campus jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. To make experiential learning affordable to all, the Student Employment Program provides training and professional development with over 6,000 on-campus jobs. For further guidance and exploration, students can use Firsthand software to find alumni mentors in a given industry, role, or company, or attend career fairs, recruiting sessions, and conferences when they are ready to launch into the professional world. Graduates who completed the PayScale.com survey reported earning a median starting salary of $70,200, and 52 percent of respondents perceived their work to be meaningful.