State University of New York—Alfred State College (ASC)

Alfred State College, located in upstate New York's Southern Tier, is one of eight technology colleges in the SUNY system. With an enrollment of 3,700, the college offers more than 70 majors, a high job placement rate, and "many different learning styles to try to make this a learning environment everyone can benefit from." Small class sizes "equate to strong relationships with professors," who try to use various teaching methods and plenty of hands-on experience to accommodate student learning needs. "Being able to actually do things other than on paper is a very attractive prospect," says a student. Alfred State professors are "knowledgeable and their content is always relevant," and "you can very easily tell they want to help each student succeed." That's not to say they make it easy, so "you have to challenge yourself, but they make it so you're prepared for the career world." The faculty does all make sure to "spend time working with students to ensure that they fully understand," and bring "good real life experiences and advice to share with us"; almost all if not all of the teachers have industry experience "which is helpful in the hands-on learning style of the school." While academics are most important, Alfred State works to provide students with "opportunities to grow in any and every aspect of the student's life through civic engagement, provided resources, and the residential life program."

Alfred State has a very diverse student population, and you are "guaranteed to meet and become friends with people who have very different cultural, ethnic, and spiritual backgrounds." Many come from areas in upstate New York, and "have a more rural perspective." A lot of the students participate in athletics, and "many of the students on campus are dedicated to a lot more than just their studies." "We have so many clubs and organizations on campus that flourish through all of the participation from the student body," says one student. These "welcoming, accepting, and friendly people" also "understand the value of hard work." Alfred State students "represent themselves in a very professional manner in every aspect."

It's a relatively quiet life in Alfred, New York, and when not studying or in the classroom, most Alfred State students "join clubs and organizations to keep busy because there is nothing to do in this town." Luckily, there are "many things that students can participate in, whether it is clubs, intramural sports, or community service. When not in class or at their jobs, Alfred State students spend their time "hanging out with friends in common areas," hiking or hammocking in nice weather, or "going to local restaurants or the bowling alley." A lot of people spend a great deal of time at the gym ("there are two on campus and both are really nice"). A huge proportion of students join Greek life, which is "a very open and friendly community working together to make Alfred better through its works with community service."